Mastering SAT Rhetorical Questions: Work Backwards Like a Test Maker

In this blog post, we're diving into one of the most effective SAT strategies you can learn—working backwards on rhetorical questions in the Reading and Writing section. These questions are often considered the most difficult, not because they test the hardest concepts, but because of how much information they throw at you. But with the right approach, they can become some of the easiest points you'll earn on test day.

Why You Should Work Backwards

One of the biggest mistakes students make is reading from the very top of a long passage all the way down, only to forget what they’ve read by the time they get to the question. This wastes time and mental energy.

Instead, I always tell my students: Start with the question stem.
This is especially powerful for rhetorical questions. These are questions that ask you about an author’s intent, word choice, or how to best emphasize a certain idea.

When you start with the stem, you know exactly what to look for—no guessing, no getting overwhelmed.

Example #1: Emphasizing a Difference

Let’s walk through an example together:

"The student wants to emphasize a difference between the two studies. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information to accomplish this?"

Here’s the key word: difference.
That means we need an answer that clearly highlights a contrast.

Correct answer: Choice C

“While both are by Carter, the 2010 study focused on coral reefs and the 2015 on kelp forests.”

The word “while” introduces a comparison and shows the difference between the two studies. That's exactly what the question is asking for.

Eliminated choices:

• A & B focus on similarities or vague descriptions.
• D provides unrelated information without any contrast.

By starting with the stem, we were able to immediately identify what the question wanted and save valuable time.

Example #2: Presenting a Study and Its Conclusion

Here’s another example:

"The student wants to present the Alexandria study and its conclusions."

We need both the study and what it found.

Correct answer: Choice B

“A 2015 analysis of ancient manuscripts found in Alexandria, Egypt suggests that the city was a center of cultural exchange.”

This option addresses the research and the conclusion—perfectly aligning with the question.

Choices A, C, and D either describe the study or provide background but omit the conclusion.

Practice This Strategy Early

Here’s the bottom line:
Don’t wait until test day to try this strategy. Use it now while you're studying.

• Identify the question stem first.
• Understand what the question is asking.
• Use that information to evaluate the answer choices.

This method saves time, improves accuracy, and builds confidence.

Get Free Practice and SAT Prep

Looking for more help? Visit KMJLearning.com where you’ll find:

• Free SAT prep sessions with downloadable handouts
• Modules on Reading, Writing, Math, and the Desmos calculator
• Tips on college essays and more

If you're ready for full prep, check out our SAT Prep Online Course, designed to help you tackle each part of the exam with confidence.

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