Time-Saving Multiple-Choice Reading Strategies to Help Students Succeed on the SAT, ACT, AP Lang, and AP Lit Tests

Multiple-choice sections on standardized tests like the AP Language and Composition, AP Literature and Composition, SAT, and ACT can be overwhelming for students, but with the right approach, they can maximize their accuracy and efficiency. Here are some key reading strategies to help students work smarter—not harder—on test day!

1️. Answer the Easier Questions First

Not all multiple-choice questions are created equal. Encourage students to prioritize the questions that take less time and yield a higher success rate. On the AP Lang exam, for example, the Composition/Editing passages come second, but they tend to be easier and quicker to answer than the rhetorical analysis questions. Tackling the low-hanging fruit first builds confidence and ensures they maximize their points.

2️. Read with a Purpose

One of the biggest time traps in multiple-choice sections is pre-reading the entire passage before attempting the questions. Instead, have students read the first question first, then read only until they can answer it. This strategy reduces unnecessary reading time and keeps students engaged with the test’s purpose-driven approach.

3️. Re-Read Key Lines for Targeted Questions

When a question directs students to a specific sentence or line number, they should always read at least one line before and one line after the cited portion. This helps them grasp the full context quickly, making it easier to eliminate wrong answer choices and select the best response efficiently.

4️. Save Whole-Passage Questions for the End

Main idea, overall purpose, and tone questions typically require a broader understanding of the passage. Instead of tackling these first, save them for last—after students have already engaged with the text through answering detail-based and structure-based questions. By then, they'll have a stronger grasp of the passage as a whole, making these questions easier to answer.

5️. Bubble-In Last-Minute Guesses Strategically

As time runs out, make sure students use their last 30–60 seconds to bubble in any unanswered questions. Instead of randomly guessing, instruct them to choose the same letter (A, B, C, or D) consistently for all remaining answers. Statistically, this increases their chances of getting some correct rather than spreading out their guesses randomly.

Final Thoughts: Reinforce Test Strategies with Practice

The best way to solidify these strategies is through consistent exposure. Try:
✅ Remediation exercises that break down question types and strategies. Check out these editable multiple-choice remediation charts for ANY reading test – grades 9-12! AP Language teachers: here are remediation charts designed specifically for you!
✅ Student-created multiple-choice questions to reinforce what each question is asking. AP Lang Teachers: check out this engaging, easy-to-implement multiple-choice activity!
✅ Timed practice sessions to build endurance and familiarity with the format

By implementing these strategies in your classroom, you’ll help students approach multiple-choice questions with confidence, efficiency, and a game plan for success!

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5 Essential Tips for Preparing Students for the AP Language and Composition Digital Exam

The AP Language and Composition exam has transitioned to a fully digital format, bringing new challenges for both students and teachers. As educators, it’s important to adjust our instruction to ensure students are confident and prepared for test day. Here are five essential tips to help students navigate the digital exam successfully.

1. Teach Students How to Read and “Annotate” Using Digital Texts

Unlike in previous years, students will not receive printed copies of the prompts or passages. Instead, they will have to read and analyze texts on a split-screen digital format. To prepare for this, incorporate digital reading into your curriculum. Teach students to use highlighting and annotation tools effectively. Encourage them to practice summarizing, identifying rhetorical strategies, and making quick notes directly within digital texts.

2. Prepare Students to Plan and Outline Essays on Paper

Although the exam is digital, students will be given scratch paper to use for planning and outlining their essays. Reinforce the importance of brainstorming and structuring their responses before typing. Have students practice outlining main ideas, supporting details, and thesis statements on paper to develop a strong habit of prewriting that will serve them well on exam day. Check out these planning guides I’ve made for my students to help them plan for each essay! Make sure to subscribe to get free planning guide worksheets sent straight to your inbox!

3. Train Students to Monitor Their Own Timing

One major change in the digital exam format is that proctors will no longer provide timing reminders during the test. Instead, students must manage their own pacing using the digital timer available on their screen. Incorporate timed practice tests into your instruction and encourage students to set personal benchmarks for when they should move on to the next question or section. Teaching them to check the clock strategically will help them stay on track.

4. Conference with Students About Essay Order Strategy

The digital test allows students to write their essays in any order. This flexibility can be beneficial if students have a strategy in place. Some may prefer to start with the argument essay to build confidence, while others might tackle the synthesis essay first to get the research-heavy portion out of the way. Conference with students individually to help them determine which approach best suits their strengths and test-taking style.

5. Utilize AP Classroom’s Updated Digital Exam Features

The best way to familiarize students with the digital format is to have them practice using the tools they will see on test day. AP Classroom has been updated with Blue Book features, including the digital timer, split-screen functionality, and text box with exam-only features. These tools simulate the actual exam environment, helping students feel comfortable and confident navigating the digital interface.

Final Thoughts

Adapting to the digital AP Language and Composition exam requires intentional preparation, but with the right strategies in place, students can thrive. By incorporating digital reading skills, emphasizing essay planning, reinforcing time management, discussing essay order strategies, and utilizing AP Classroom’s practice tools, teachers can equip students with the skills they need to succeed.

Preparing for the digital AP Lang exam requires intentional practice and strategy. Want more resources designed specifically for this new format? Join my weekly newsletter to receive free planning guides and materials tailored for digital exam prep!