Identify words that support information given in the text
An SAT Reading & Writing micro-topic under Words in Context (Craft and Structure). Free to read — no account needed.
Some questions ask you to choose the word that best fits information already given in the text. The passage supplies details, and the correct word is the one those details support.
So read the details first, then find the word that matches them. Take this passage: "Before every hike, the guide checks the forecast, packs extra food and water, and tells the ranger station her exact route." Those actions all show careful preparation, so a word like "cautious" is supported, while "careless" is the opposite of what the details show.
Be sure the word does not go beyond the evidence. A word can be wrong for being too strong, too weak, or pointed in the wrong direction. The right choice fits the details exactly, with nothing the text does not back up.
So test each option against the passage. Ask whether you can point to the details that support it. The word the evidence points to is the answer.
Worked examples
Based on the passage, which word best describes the startup's approach? "The startup spent its entire budget in three months, hired dozens of employees before it had a single customer, and ignored repeated warnings from its advisors." (A) reckless (B) careful Spending everything fast, over-hiring, and ignoring warnings are all careless, high-risk actions. So (A) "reckless" is supported by the details, while "careful" contradicts them.
Based on the passage, which word best describes the professor's work? "The professor rewrote the paper four times, double-checked every citation, and asked three colleagues to review it before submitting." (A) meticulous (B) hasty Rewriting repeatedly, checking every citation, and seeking reviews all show painstaking care. So (A) "meticulous" is supported by the details, while "hasty" is the opposite.
Based on the passage, which word best describes the new restaurant's reception? "On opening night the restaurant filled every table, turned away a long line at the door, and drew glowing reviews the next morning." (A) successful (B) disappointing A full house, a waiting line, and glowing reviews all point to a strong start. So (A) "successful" is supported by the details, while "disappointing" contradicts them.
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