Common Question Types
Main Idea
"The primary purpose…" / "This passage mainly discusses…"
Read the first and last sentences of each paragraph. The main idea is usually stated, not implied.
Detail / Fact
"According to the passage…" / "The author states…"
The answer is in the text. Go back and find it. Never answer from memory.
Inference
"It can be inferred…" / "The passage suggests…"
The answer is NOT directly stated, so it must follow logically. Stay close to what the text supports.
Vocabulary in Context
"As used in line X, the word ___ means…"
Plug each answer choice back into the sentence. Choose the one that fits the sentence's meaning, not the dictionary definition.
Tone / Author Purpose
"The author's attitude is…" / "The passage is primarily…"
Look for charged language, word choice, and what details the author chose to include or omit.
Active Reading Method
- 1. Skim the questions first: 15–20 seconds. Know what information to hunt for.
- 2. Read the passage once, actively: underline the topic sentence of each paragraph.
- 3. Note transitions: "however," "therefore," "in contrast" signal key relationships.
- 4. Answer main idea questions last: you'll understand the whole after reading the parts.
- 5. Return to the text: every detail question has a line reference. Use it.
Eliminating Wrong Answers
✗ Too broad
Goes beyond what the passage actually covers. Common trap for main idea questions.
✗ Too narrow
Only describes one paragraph, not the whole passage.
✗ Contradicts the text
Directly opposite to what the passage says. Easy to eliminate.
✗ Not supported
May be true in the real world but the passage doesn't say it.
✗ Half right / half wrong
First clause is correct; second distorts it. Read the full answer.
✗ Extreme language
"Always," "never," "all," "none" are usually wrong unless the text uses that word.
Time Management
Use this as a practice pacing target, not an official rule. The actual time available varies by exam, so always follow the timing instructions in your announcement or test booklet.
- • Try spending about 1–2 minutes reading the passage
- • Aim for roughly 30–60 seconds per question when practicing
- • Skip difficult questions, mark them, and return at the end
- • If the exam instructions allow guessing without a penalty, answer every question before time is called
More free study sheets
Other reference sheets that apply to every civil service exam.
Civil Service Math Quick Reference
A one-page reference covering every math topic tested on civil service exams — fractions, percentages, ratios, word problems, and number operations. Print and keep it at your desk during practice sessions.
View & print →Exam Day Checklist
A practical checklist for what to confirm before, during, and after your civil service exam. Always compare it with your official exam notice because agency rules can differ.
View & print →Situational Judgment Test (SJT) Cheat Sheet
The SJT is the section many test-takers underestimate. This sheet explains common response patterns, workplace dimensions often evaluated, and a framework for choosing the strongest answer.
View & print →Which exam are you preparing for?
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Browse practice tests by role →This sheet applies to most civil service exams. Use it during your practice sessions.
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