Make Predictions About Stories: SAT Reading Quiz

Step 1: Look for Action Patterns
Characters who are preparing, gathering items, or moving toward something usually continue that action. Notice when characters pick up objects, walk toward places, or show readiness—these signal what's coming next.

Step 2: Use Cause-and-Effect Logic
What causes lead to what effects? If storm clouds gather, rain usually follows. If someone is hungry and heading to the kitchen, they'll likely get food. Connect causes you see to their logical effects.

Step 3: Consider Character Goals and Emotions
What does the character want or need? A character who's been saving money for something specific will probably buy that thing. A character showing determination will likely follow through on their plans.

Step 4: Read the Final Sentence Carefully
The last sentence often shows a character in motion or about to act. "She reached for the handle" strongly suggests opening something. "He picked up his phone" suggests making a call or sending a message.

Step 5: Eliminate Unrealistic Options
Rule out predictions that contradict the story's logic, ignore obvious problems (like burnt cookies or smoke alarms), or suggest bizarre events that don't fit the realistic tone of the passage.

Step 6: Choose the Simplest Logical Next Step
The SAT usually tests basic cause-and-effect understanding, not complex plot twists. The most straightforward continuation of the current action is usually correct. Don't overthink—follow the story's natural flow.

What does it mean to "make a prediction" about a story?

Making a prediction means using clues in the story to figure out what will most likely happen next. You look at what characters are doing, their goals, the situation they're in, and the story's logic to determine the next logical event or action.

How do I know which prediction is most likely?

The most likely prediction follows logically from the story's current situation. Look for: characters in motion toward a goal, problems that need solving, preparations that lead to actions, and cause-and-effect relationships. The correct answer continues the story's natural progression.

What if I can't decide between two answers?

Choose the prediction that most directly continues the current action and requires the fewest assumptions. If a character is at a door with their hand on the handle, "opening the door" is more direct than "going to a different room" or "deciding not to open it."

Should I choose surprising or expected predictions?

At foundation level, choose the expected, logical next step. The SAT isn't testing your ability to imagine plot twists, but rather your understanding of basic cause-and-effect and story logic. If someone is going to the store to buy something, they'll likely buy it.

How do character emotions help me make predictions?

Emotions signal motivation. A determined character will follow through on plans. A disappointed character might try again or need comfort. A nervous character might hesitate but still act if they've committed. Match predictions to the emotional state described.

What if the prediction seems too obvious?

Foundation-level questions test basic comprehension, so "obvious" predictions are often correct. If a character is hungry and making a sandwich, they'll likely eat the sandwich. Don't overthink—the simplest logical continuation is usually right.

How can I eliminate wrong answers quickly?

Remove predictions that: contradict what just happened, ignore urgent problems (smoke, alarms, deadlines), suggest unrealistic events that don't fit the story's tone, or have the character abandon their established goal for no reason.

Do I need to read between the lines or just follow what's stated?

At foundation level, follow what's clearly stated. If the passage says a character is heading somewhere with a purpose, predict they'll complete that purpose. You don't need deep interpretation—basic cause-and-effect understanding is sufficient.