How to Prepare for the ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension Test: Tips and Strategies
Jul 30, 2025
The ACCUPLACER reading comprehension test is a measure of your reading skills, including your ability to analyze and draw conclusions on different elements of a body of text.
The test consists of 20 questions and has no time limit.
The purpose of the test is to determine which placement you receive at your chosen school or college.
To receive your best score, preparation is essential.
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What Is the ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension Test?
The ACCUPLACER reading comprehension test is a computer-adaptive test consisting of 20 questions all designed to assess your reading skills.
There is no time limit and it is considered to be one of the easier ACCUPLACER tests. The majority of candidates finish the test within 15 minutes.
The adaptive nature of the ACCUPLACER exam means you will never answer a question that is too difficult or too easy.
While your teachers may tell you that there is no need to worry about the exam as it doesn’t have a passing mark, there is still reason to prepare.
The ACCUPLACER test doesn’t preclude you from entry to your chosen college or school as that should have already been granted. However, the ACCUPLACER reading placement test is used to determine your placement level. An excellent performance could see you placed in an advanced class.
As such, it is advised that you prepare before taking the test. This article will help by explaining the format of the test, providing example questions and offering tips on how best to prepare to land your preferred placement.
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What Is Included in the ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension Test?
The ACCUPLACER reading comprehension test uses two question formats.
The first is a series of passages with questions based on each of the texts.
The second uses sentence pairs followed by questions regarding the relationship between them.
Both sets of questions measure how well and to what extent you understand what you are reading.
The assessment areas are:
- Information and ideas – Identifying main ideas and themes, summarizing the passage and understanding various relationships
- Rhetoric – Analyzing word choice, text structure, points of view, purpose and arguments
- Synthesis – Analyzing, comparing and contrasting multiple passages
- Vocabulary
Example Questions for the ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension Test
The below reading ACCUPLACER practice test questions are designed to show how the questions are phrased and the type of content you can expect.
They are not past questions, nor are they likely to appear on your reading comprehension for placement test.
Relationship Questions
Question 1
According to international studies, the most popular food is pizza.
Reports show that Chinese, Thai, Mexican and BBQ takeaway food were among the top-grossing food shops last year.
How do those sentences relate?
a) They complement each other
b) They contradict each other
c) They create a contrast
d) They both present problems and solutions
The correct answer is: c) They create a contrast.
The first sentence states that the most popular food is pizza. However, the second sentence doesn’t mention pizza or Italian food as a top-grossing food place. The sentences are not direct contradictions, nor do they complement each other.
Question 2
What is the relationship between these two statements?
Diseases and illnesses spread quickly in heavily populated areas. While the diseases still spread in clean conditions, they spread even quicker in dirty living conditions.
Covid-19 is highly transmittable. Densely populated areas should take extra precautions to prevent the spread of this disease. Even in the cleanest of buildings, Covid-19 is still spreading quickly.
a) They contradict each other
b) They say the exact same thing
c) They present similar ideas and beliefs
d) They have different solutions
The correct answer is: c) They present similar ideas and beliefs.
Both state that diseases and illnesses spread in heavily populated areas, regardless of the living conditions.
Question 3
Passage A
Climate change is a long-term shift in temperature and weather patterns. While some variation occurs naturally, recent decades have seen an acceleration due to human activity. Carbon dioxide levels have risen dramatically since the industrial revolution, contributing to the greenhouse effect. Ice cores from Antarctica show that current CO₂ levels are higher than at any point in the past 800,000 years. Satellite data and global climate models consistently show rising average temperatures, sea level increases and more frequent extreme weather events.
Passage B
Fatima still remembers the night the river flooded and swept through her family's shop. They had lived beside the water for generations, but the past few years have been different — hotter summers, shorter winters, and unpredictable rain. “We used to be able to plan,” she says, “but now the seasons don’t make sense.” Her neighbours speak of having to rebuild, move or give up farming altogether. These stories are becoming more common in towns like hers, where people are adapting to a changing climate in personal and painful ways.
How do the two passages differ in their approach to the topic of climate change?
a) Passage A uses global data, while Passage B presents personal experiences
b) Passage A argues that climate change is not real, while Passage B says it is
c) Passage A focuses on farming, while Passage B focuses on rising sea levels
d) Passage A is fiction, while Passage B is a government report
The correct answer is: a) Passage A uses global data, while Passage B presents personal experiences.
Passage A takes a scientific approach, using data and research to describe climate change. Passage B tells a personal story to show how climate change affects individual lives.
Inference Questions
Question 1
Ice lollies are a popular summer pastime with lots of people creating their own. While some of the flavors are delicious and they are easy to make, they can be awfully messy. Additionally, some children throw theirs on the floor when they see their friend has a better one. Worse still is when the mothers decide to have a secret competition and try to outdo each other with the ingredients and presentation. I think it's best to leave the lollies in the freezer and drink lemonade instead.
This passage implies that the writer thinks ice lollies are:
a) Healthy and nutritional
b) The best way to cool down in the summer
c) Better than lemonade
d) Not the best choice
The correct answer is: d) Not the best choice.
The writer thinks that ice lollies are not the best choice because they can be messy and the mothers turn lolly-making into a competition. The writer believes that lemonade is the better choice.
Question 2
Once a major event in the city’s sporting calendar, the annual marathon used to draw thousands of runners and supporters. Local shops offered discounts, schools gave the day off, and the city centre buzzed with activity. But in recent years, fewer people have signed up, and the once-vibrant crowd has thinned. Sponsorship deals have dried up, and some roads that were previously closed for the race have been left open to traffic. Though organisers haven’t made any announcements, there are rumours this year’s race may be the last.
What can most reasonably be inferred from the passage?
a) Local schools no longer support the marathon
b) The city has decided to cancel the marathon
c) The event’s popularity has declined in recent years
d) Other cities have more successful sporting events
The correct answer is: c) The event’s popularity has declined in recent years.
The passage implies a downward trend in participation, support, and enthusiasm, even though the word “decline” isn’t used explicitly.
Purpose/Attitude Questions
Question 1
Leonardo da Vinci is a true Renaissance man. Much to the disappointment of the Church, he created lots of fabulous inventions including the catapult and spring device. He also painted the infamous Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. He and his friends were always in some sort of bother, with television shows showing them as being slightly bemused by their lives.
From the passage, which of the following expresses displeasure?
a) Renaissance man
b) Much to the disappointment
c) Slightly bemused
d) Infamous
The correct answer is: b) Much to the disappointment.
Question 2
While warnings about screen time often focus on children, recent studies suggest adults may also be at risk. Health experts have linked excessive screen use in adults to eye strain, sleep disruption and chronic neck or back pain. In some cases, prolonged screen time has been associated with increased feelings of loneliness or social disconnection. Despite this, public health campaigns rarely target adult users in the same way they do for younger audiences.
What is the author’s main purpose in this passage?
a) To argue that children shouldn’t use screens
b) To highlight health risks for adults using screens too much
c) To promote better posture
d) To compare screen use in children and adults
The correct answer is: b) To highlight health risks for adults using screens too much.
While the passage mentions children, the focus is clearly on how excessive screen use negatively affects adults and how this issue is often overlooked.
Detail Questions
Question 1
You may not be aware but the US Government spends around $100 billion per year supporting and subsidizing start-ups and small businesses. It also has a program designed to educate aspiring business owners and facilitate innovation. This is something I wish I had known earlier. I wasted so much time not knowing the right steps to take – do I start with my website or office space, should I order in bulk and pay less or start small and pay more, do I need a license, where should I register? I also wasted so much of my money, not to mention money from friends and family. If I hadn’t found the government support program, I wouldn’t be a success. I guess that’s why so many businesses fail.
What does the writer think the main reason small businesses fail is?
a) No government support
b) Lack of overall knowledge and planning
c) Expensive taxes and licenses
d) Not knowing what website to choose
The correct answer is: b) Lack of overall knowledge and planning.
The reason the writer thinks small businesses fail is because owners don’t know which steps to take and when.
Question 2
The train to Greenford runs every 20 minutes from Platform 6 during peak hours. However, due to scheduled engineering works, the 9:40 a.m. service will not operate as usual. Instead, a replacement bus will depart from the station forecourt and is expected to follow a similar timetable. Regular train service will resume from the 10:00 a.m. departure onwards.
Which of the following is true according to the passage?
a) All trains to Greenford will now depart from the forecourt
b) The 9:40 train is the last service of the day
c) The 9:40 train will be replaced with a bus service
d) Trains to Greenford run every 10 minutes
The correct answer is: c) The 9:40 train will be replaced with a bus service.
The passage states that the 9:40 service is cancelled and replaced by a bus. All other services continue from Platform 6 as normal.
Meaning in Context
Question 1
For months, newspapers, online forums and even dinner table conversations have been filled with discussions about electric vehicles. Some argue they’re the future of transportation, while others worry about battery production and charging infrastructure. Car manufacturers are rapidly releasing new models, governments are rolling out incentive schemes, and environmental groups are stepping up their campaigns. “The debate around electric vehicles has reached fever pitch,” one journalist wrote last week.
What does the phrase “fever pitch” most likely mean in this context?
a) A high level of excitement or intensity
b) A political argument that was settled
c) A consistent increase in popularity
d) A technical issue related to battery overheating
The correct answer is: a) A high level of excitement or intensity.
The phrase is used to describe how active, widespread and emotionally charged the discussion has become. It refers to the intensity of the public and media interest, not a literal temperature or medical condition.
Question 2
When the new manager took over the café, she made several changes. She rearranged the seating, introduced a fresh menu, and added a chalkboard wall for customer messages. At first, the staff were hesitant, but soon the café developed a reputation for being warm and welcoming. One employee described the transformation as “nothing short of a breath of fresh air.”
What does the phrase “a breath of fresh air” most likely mean in this context?
a) The café was renovated to improve airflow
b) The changes made the café feel more modern and positive
c) The staff were allowed to work outside
d) The café added an air conditioning system
The correct answer is: b) The changes made the café feel more modern and positive.
“A breath of fresh air” is used figuratively to describe something new and refreshing. The passage shows that the café became more appealing after the changes.
How to Prepare for the ACCUPLACER Reading Test
Preparing for the ACCUPLACER reading test is essential, especially if you want the top placements.
To help you achieve your best possible score, it is advised you:
Complete a Free Reading ACCUPLACER Practice Test
One of the best ways to prepare is to complete a free reading ACCUPLACER practice test as this will help familiarize you with the format of the questions.
There are several websites that offer free ACCUPLACER practice test reading comprehension questions, including the official ACCUPLACER website and TestPrep-Online.
The more questions you can complete, the more confident you will feel on the test day.
Revise Basic Reading Practices
As the test measures your reading skills, it is important to develop and practice ACCUPLACER reading skills.
Make it a habit to read lots of different books and publications. While reading, highlight any sentences, phrases or words you don’t understand and find their meaning.
Completing a book review after everything you read will also help develop your analytical skills. You can find book review formats online and the goal is to get you to identify intentions, arguments, characters and settings.
The more you read and the more reviews you complete, the easier it will be to look at a passage and analyze it.
While reading or listening to informational passages or speeches, try to find the purpose or intention of the writer/speaker and see if you can offer or see any counterarguments.
Invest in a Paid Preparation Pack
If you believe you need additional support with your reading skills, perhaps you should consider investing in a paid ACCUPLACER reading comprehension study guide.
These packs tend to have lots of details and advice about the test, as well as several ACCUPLACER practice reading tests and solutions.
Decide if You Need the ACCUPLACER ESL Version
The ACCUPLACER ESL reading skills test assesses the same skills as the main test but uses different texts and passages.
While the results of this test will be different, it also determines which placement you will receive.
Complete an ACCUPLACER ESL reading practice test and assess whether you are eligible for or could benefit from taking this version.
Check Computer Equipment or Directions to the Testing Location
When taking any test you want to feel as confident and prepared as possible.
If you are taking the test remotely, check that your device is compatible with the ACCUPLACER program and all your technology is working properly.
You will want to take the test in a location with a strong internet connection where you won’t be disturbed.
If you are taking the ACCUPLACER test at an assessment center, check the directions and plan your route ahead of time. You want to ensure you get there early, so consider possible traffic in your travel plans.
Take Care of Yourself
The night before the test ensure you get enough rest. Drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious meal. Dehydration and a lack of nutrients slow your thinking ability and reaction time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reading ACCUPLACER test?
A reading ACCUPLACER test is a computer-adaptive test that measures your reading ability. The results don’t determine which college or school you go to, but the placement level you will be on.
How hard is the ACCUPLACER reading test?
The ACCUPLACER reading test is not hard for those who have prepared and developed their reading skills. Make it a habit to read and analyze a variety of books and passages to help improve your reading comprehension for placement at the level you want.
How many questions are on the ACCUPLACER reading test?
There are 20 questions on the ACCUPLACER reading test.
How to pass the ACCUPLACER reading test?
There is no pass or fail mark in the ACCUPLACER reading test. Instead, you can improve your score by completing ACCUPLACER practice reading tests and reading and analyzing a variety of books and publications. If you feel you need additional support, paid preparation packs are also available.
How long Is the ACCUPLACER reading test?
There is no time limit for the ACCUPLACER reading test. However, the majority of candidates finish within 15 minutes.
How to take an ACCUPLACER reading test?
You can search for and book an assessment center on the ACCUPLACER website. If you don’t live near a test center, there are alternative options.
What is covered on the ACCUPLACER reading test?
The ACCUPLACER reading test covers and assesses how well you identify main ideas and themes, summarize the passage and understand various relationships. It also assesses how well you analyze word choices, text structure, points of view, purpose and arguments, along with how well you synthesize passages and understand vocabulary.
How to be prepared for the ACCUPLACER reading test?
To be prepared for the ACCUPLACER reading test, you will need to make it a habit to read and analyze different books and publications every day. You should also complete as many practice tests as possible. To make the test day less stressful, plan your route to the assessment center ahead of time and leave early in case of traffic or accidents.
How to study for an ACCUPLACER reading test?
The best way to study for the ACCUPLACER reading test is to complete as many free online practice tests as possible. If you need additional support, paid preparation packs are available on websites like TestPrep-Online. You should also make it a daily habit to read and analyze different books and publications.
What Is the most important stuff to know about the ACCUPLACER reading test?
The most important stuff to know about the ACCUPLACER reading test is that with good reading habits and preparation, you will be able to achieve your best score. The test is also computer-adaptive, meaning that the questions will never be too challenging for you.
Where can I get a complete ACCUPLACER reading comprehension study guide?
You can get a complete ACCUPLACER reading comprehension study guide on the official website and TestPrep-Online.
Final Thoughts
The ACCUPLACER reading test is a computer-based assessment of an individual's ability to understand and assess what they are reading.
Proper preparation, such as completing an ACCUPLACER reading comprehension practice test, can help you feel confident and get you the score needed for your desired placement.
