What should a reader focus on first when approaching a passage in the Reading section?

Focusing on the title and any headings or summary statements at the beginning of a passage is a strategic approach for a reader. This method provides a framework for understanding the main ideas and themes that will be addressed in the text. The title often gives insight into the overall topic, while headings and summaries can highlight critical points, clarify the structure, and set expectations for the content.

In contrast, examining the last paragraph could lead to a misunderstanding of the context, as the conclusion typically summarizes the arguments rather than providing a foundation for understanding the entire passage. Looking at the length of each sentence or the total number of words in the passage is less relevant as these aspects do not contribute to comprehension of the main ideas. Instead, they may complicate the reader's approach by drawing attention away from the content's essence. Starting with the title and headings equips the reader with necessary context, making it easier to navigate through the information presented in the passage.