Craft and Structure • 28% of test
Words in Context
Select your difficulty level to start practicing. We recommend mastering each level before moving to the next.
Beginner10 Sets
Beginner Practice
Start here to build your foundation. Clear texts and straightforward questions.
Target Score
400-550
Intermediate10 Sets
Intermediate Practice
Level up with more complex passages and nuanced answer choices.
Target Score
550-700
Advanced5 Sets
Advanced Practice
Master the hardest concepts. Dense academic prose and abstract topics.
Target Score
700-800
What is Words in Context?
Words in Context questions test your ability to determine how a word or phrase is used in a specific passage. The SAT often uses common words in uncommon ways, so context is essential—memorized definitions may mislead you.
Step-by-Step Strategy
- 1Read the sentence containing the word AND surrounding sentences
- 2Predict a meaning BEFORE looking at answer choices
- 3Substitute each answer choice into the sentence to test fit
- 4Consider the tone and context—not just dictionary definitions
- 5Beware of common meanings that don't fit THIS context
⚠️ Common Traps to Avoid
- ✗Choosing the most common definition without checking context
- ✗Selecting a sophisticated-sounding word that doesn't fit
- ✗Ignoring surrounding sentences that clarify meaning
- ✗Not substituting the answer back into the sentence to verify
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I memorize vocabulary lists?
Helpful but not essential. The SAT tests how words are USED in context, not definitions alone. Many tested words are common.
What if I don't know the word at all?
Use context clues: surrounding words, sentence purpose, tone, and logic. You can often infer meaning without knowing the word.
Why are common words tested?
Common words often have multiple meanings. The SAT tests whether you can identify the correct meaning in context.
How do I use substitution?
Replace the tested word with each answer choice. Read the sentence aloud (mentally). The correct answer fits smoothly.
What context clues should I look for?
Synonyms nearby, contrasts (however, but), examples, definitions within the sentence, and overall tone.
Are these questions easy or hard?
Varies. Some are straightforward; others use words in unusual ways. Don't assume a question is easy just because the word is familiar.
How many Words in Context questions appear?
Typically 5-8 questions. They are a significant part of the <a href='/reading-writing'>SAT Reading & Writing score</a>.
What if two answers seem to fit?
Choose the one that best matches the TONE and PURPOSE of the passage, not just the literal meaning.
Should I read beyond the sentence?
Yes! Sometimes meaning is clarified in the previous or next sentence. Don't isolate the word too much.
How do I improve vocabulary for the SAT?
Read quality journalism and essays. Practice your skills with our <a href='/reading-writing/words-in-context/beginner'>Beginner Words in Context sets</a>.
What part of speech should the answer match?
The answer should grammatically fit the sentence. If the word is a verb, the answer must work as a verb.
Are roots/prefixes helpful?
Somewhat, but context is more reliable. A word's meaning in context may differ from what roots suggest.
What if the word is an idiom?
Consider the meaning of the entire phrase. The word's individual dictionary definition is almost always secondary to the idiomatic use.
How do I handle 'Abstract' vs 'Concrete'?
Identify if the passage is literal or metaphorical. 'Depth' can mean physical distance or complexity of thought depending on context.
Can context be provided by punctuation?
Yes! Words in parentheses, after dashes, or following 'i.e.' or 'e.g.' often provide direct context or even a definition.
Why does the SAT test 'Multi-Meaning' words?
To see if you're actually reading the passage. They want to reward context-based reasoning over simple rote memorization.
Should I look at the answer choices first?
No! Try to 'blind' guess a replacement first. Looking at choices too early can often bias your reading of the sentence.
What if no answer choice seems to fit perfectly?
Choose the 'Least Bad' option. It should be the one that preserves the original meaning and tone better than any other.