Craft and Structure • 28% of test
Text Structure & Purpose
Select your difficulty level to start practicing. We recommend mastering each level before moving to the next.
Beginner9 Sets
Beginner Practice
Start here to build your foundation. Clear texts and straightforward questions.
Target Score
400-550
Intermediate9 Sets
Intermediate Practice
Level up with more complex passages and nuanced answer choices.
Target Score
550-700
Advanced9 Sets
Advanced Practice
Master the hardest concepts. Dense academic prose and abstract topics.
Target Score
700-800
What is Text Structure & Purpose?
Text Structure questions ask about how a passage is organized and why. Purpose questions focus on why an author included a specific sentence, paragraph, or rhetorical choice.
Step-by-Step Strategy
- 1Map the passage structure: introduction, examples, counterarguments, conclusion
- 2Identify transitions that signal structure (however, furthermore, in contrast)
- 3Ask: Why did the author include THIS detail HERE?
- 4Consider whether elements introduce, support, contrast, or conclude
- 5Match function to content—don't assume typical structures
⚠️ Common Traps to Avoid
- ✗Confusing what a paragraph SAYS with what it DOES
- ✗Missing how one section relates to others
- ✗Not considering the author's persuasive or explanatory goal
- ✗Assuming standard structure when the passage does something unusual
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between structure and purpose?
Structure = how the passage is organized. Purpose = why the author made specific choices (to convince, explain, contrast, etc.).
What structures are common on the SAT?
Problem/solution, cause/effect, compare/contrast, chronological, claim + evidence, question + answer.
How do I identify paragraph functions?
Ask: Does this paragraph introduce, explain, give examples, counter, or conclude? How does it connect to paragraphs before/after?
What words signal structure?
However (contrast), therefore (conclusion), for example (support), first/second (sequence), in contrast (comparison).
Are these questions common?
Yes, expect 3-5 per test. They test your grasp of the <a href='/reading-writing'>overall passage architecture</a>.
How do I understand author's purpose?
Consider: What is the author trying to accomplish? Inform, persuade, analyze, compare, rebut?
What if the structure isn't obvious?
Focus on transitions between sentences and paragraphs. They reveal logical relationships even in complex passages.
Should I outline the passage?
Mentally, yes. Note the role of each paragraph (intro, example 1, counterargument, etc.) as you read.
How do I answer 'function of' questions?
Identify what the referenced portion DOES in relation to the whole passage—not just what it says.
What if a paragraph has multiple functions?
Choose the PRIMARY function. Some paragraphs do multiple things, but one purpose is usually dominant.
Are structure questions easier than inference?
Often yes, because you're analyzing organization rather than implied meaning. With practice, they become predictable.
How do I practice structure analysis?
Read articles and identify each paragraph's role. Master these in our <a href='/reading-writing/text-structure/intermediate'>Intermediate Structure practice module</a>.
What is the function of 'Rhetorical Questions'?
Usually to engage the reader, introduce a new sub-topic, or emphasize a point by making the answer seem obvious.
How do I analyze 'Development'?
Note the sequence: Does it start with an anecdote? A definition? A generalization? The progression reveals the internal structure.
What does 'Shift in Focus' mean?
It's when the passage moves from one sub-topic to another, or from a broad perspective to a specific example (or vice versa).
Is 'Purpose' the same as 'Meaning'?
No. Meaning is WHAT is being said; Purpose is WHY it's being said. Purpose is the rhetorical 'job' the sentence is doing.
How do I identify 'Rhetorical Strategies'?
Look for repetition, contrast, parallelism, irony, or personal anecdotes. These are 'tools' authors use to achieve their purpose.
What if the purpose is to 'Acknowledge Limitation'?
Look for words like 'admittedly', 'despite', or 'of course' followed by a counterpoint or a weakness in their own claim.