When answering a main idea question, which sequence is recommended?

• A. Read the passage first, then questions, then answer choices.
• B. Skim answer choices, then read the passage, then answer the questions.
• C. Read the question, skim answer choices, read the passage, eliminate choices never mentioned, eliminate choices where it happened but it's too specific, then reread when you've narrowed choices down to 2.
• D. Immediately pick the first option that seems plausible.

Answer: (C)

When you’re tackling a main idea question, you want to pinpoint the central claim the author is making and how the details support it. The best sequence starts with the question so you know exactly what you’re looking for. Skim the answer options next to get a sense of the kinds of statements you’ll be weighing about the passage’s main point. Then read the passage in full to see what the author is asserting and how the details connect to that claim.

As you read, start filtering out options that aren’t actually stated in the passage or that describe a detail or moment rather than the overall main idea. Keep focusing on choices that reflect the general point the author is making rather than something narrow or overly specific. When you’ve pared it down to two strong options, reread to confirm which one best captures the passage’s main idea. This method helps ensure your answer aligns with the author’s overall message, not just a single detail.