Understand that the 4 main question types are comprehension, analysis, application, and synthesis. Comprehension questions test your basic knowledge of what you read in the passage, and analysis questions require you to break down complex ideas into simpler components.
On the GED applications questions, you must apply your understanding of the text to a different situations. Synthesis questions ask you to combine ideas from different sources to make a more complex idea.
Since literary works account for 3/4 of the reading material on this part of the GED test, you should get into the habit of reading quality works of fiction, poetry, and drama. If you are taking a GED prep class, don't skip any of the required reading.
If you are studying on your own you can make a reading list for yourself. Choose selections of poetry 25 lines or less, works of drama, and fiction from 3 periods: before 1920, 1920-1960, and after 1960. Literary texts on the GED will include traditional American and British works, and pieces from writers with diverse ethnic backgrounds.
To prepare for the nonfiction GED questions, keep in mind that the nonfiction text may be excerpts from letters, manuals, or reviews of the arts. Practice critical reading in your daily activities and at work so that you are sharp for test day.
You should also work on practice problems from official GED study guides. Set the timer for 65 minutes and try to complete 40 questions. It may take several weeks of practice to build up your speed if you are a slow reader, so be patient.
While you are read, keep a pencil handy to underline key ideas and jot down summaries of whole paragraphs and complex ideas. The act of writing down information will help you retain more, and it will keep you focused.
If a passage is very wordy or technical, make sure to read for the main ideas and try not to get bogged down in the details. You will perform better if you read the entire text before answering the questions, rather than using a read-as-you-go approach.