Text structure is how an author organises information within a passage. The Digital SAT asks you to identify the organisational pattern and understand how it serves the author's purpose.
Core Concepts
Common Structures
| Structure | Description | Signal Words |
|---|---|---|
| Chronological | Events in time order | first, then, after, finally |
| Cause and effect | Why something happens and its result | because, therefore, as a result, consequently |
| Compare and contrast | Similarities and differences | however, similarly, on the other hand, whereas |
| Problem and solution | A problem is presented and solutions discussed | the issue, one approach, the solution |
| Claim and evidence | Argument supported by evidence | the author argues, evidence suggests, studies show |
| Description | Detailed information about a topic | features include, is characterised by |
Paragraph-Level Structure
Beyond overall structure, the SAT asks about individual paragraph functions:
- Introduction of a concept
- Providing evidence
- Presenting a counterargument
- Drawing a conclusion
- Transitioning between ideas
Strategy Tips
Tip 1: Look for Signal Words
Transition words reveal the structure.
Tip 2: Summarise Each Paragraph's Role
Write a brief mental note: "This paragraph introduces the problem." "This one gives evidence."
Tip 3: Ask "Why Is This Here?"
Every paragraph serves a purpose in the overall structure.
Worked Example: Example
A passage first describes low voter turnout, then discusses three programs that increased participation.
Structure: Problem-solution. The problem is low turnout; the solutions are the three programs.
Key Takeaways
Text structure = how information is organised.
Common patterns: chronological, cause-effect, compare-contrast, problem-solution.
Signal words help identify the structure.
Each paragraph has a function in the overall argument.
