The Verbal section of the SSAT can be one of the most challenging parts of the test. With 30 Synonym and 30 Analogy questions, it demands both a robust vocabulary and sharp reasoning skills. Additionally, you’ll need to work efficiently, as you only have 30 minutes to tackle all 60 questions.
Fortunately, with the right approach, you can excel in this section. This post will outline essential strategies to help you navigate the SSAT Verbal section effectively.
Overview of the SSAT Verbal Section
• Time: 30 minutes
• Format: 60 multiple-choice questions, split equally between Synonyms and Analogies.
Synonyms
The Synonym questions appear first and are typically organized by increasing difficulty. The initial questions are generally easier, with the difficulty level rising through the set. For each question, you’ll need to select the answer that is closest in meaning to the given word.
Analogies
Following the Synonym questions, you’ll tackle the 30 Analogy questions. Similar to Synonyms, these questions are arranged by difficulty. An analogy compares two things with a specific relationship, and your task is to identify this relationship and choose the answer that best mirrors it. Vocabulary knowledge remains crucial, as you may encounter unfamiliar words, especially in more challenging questions.
General Strategies for the SSAT Verbal Section
1. Prioritize Easier Questions:
Begin with the questions you find easiest. Since the questions are generally arranged by difficulty, tackling the simpler ones first ensures you secure those points before moving on to more challenging questions. This approach also helps warm up your vocabulary skills for the tougher questions.
2. Use Context and Connotation:
If you encounter an unfamiliar word, use context clues or the word’s connotation to guide you. For instance, “jubilation” suggests celebration, while “miserly” implies a lack of generosity.
3. Watch for Homonyms:
Homonyms are words that look the same but have different meanings. For example, “bat” can refer to a small, flying mammal with leathery wings, often found in caves or at night. It can also mean a piece of sports equipment used in baseball or cricket to hit the ball. Determine the correct meaning based on the context and answer choices.
4. Choose the Best Option:
Sometimes, none of the answer choices will perfectly match the definition of the word. In such cases, select the option that best fits the intended meaning, even if it’s not a perfect match.
5. Have a Guessing Strategy:
Incorrect answers result in a 1/4 point deduction, while unanswered questions incur no penalty. Therefore, it’s often better to leave questions blank if you’re unsure, rather than risk losing points. Develop a solid guessing strategy to maximize your score.
6. Think Like the Test-Maker:
Standardized tests are designed with specific traps and tricks. Understanding these can give you a significant advantage. Familiarize yourself with common pitfalls to better anticipate and avoid them.
Ready to put these strategies into practice? Download our SSAT VerbalPro app from the Apple’s App Store and start practicing today!
Good luck!