Preliminary SAT (PSAT) Practice Test

The recommended strategy of paying attention to the first and last paragraphs is effective because these sections often contain the main ideas and conclusions of the passage. The first paragraph typically introduces the topic and sets the stage for the arguments or information that follow, while the last paragraph often summarizes the key points or presents the author's final thoughts. This approach allows the reader to grasp the overall structure and intent of the passage efficiently, making it easier to understand the context and primary arguments as they read the middle sections.

In nonfiction, where clarity and main ideas are paramount, focusing solely on the beginning and end can provide a framework for understanding the details presented in between. This selective reading helps to identify the thesis and key conclusions, which can be especially useful when time is limited or when trying to comprehend dense material.