RW3 Cross-Text Connections
Cross-Text Connections questions give you two short passages by different authors on a related topic and ask how they relate. Maybe one author would agree or disagree with the other, or how the second author would respond to a claim in the first. The skill is holding two viewpoints in your head at once and comparing them precisely. One concrete tip: before choosing, state each author's main position in a few words, and note whether they agree, disagree, or focus on different parts of the issue. On this page you'll find a short lesson on comparing arguments and predicting how one author would react to another, plus free interactive practice with instant feedback so you can sharpen this comparison skill.
Lesson
Cross-Text Connections give you two short passages (Text 1 and Text 2) on the same topic and ask how they relate — usually how the author of one would respond to the other.
The reliable method
- Summarize each author's position in one sentence in your own words.
- Pin the point of contact — the specific thing both texts address. The answer lives there.
- Match the relationship precisely. "Would disagree" needs direct conflict; "would qualify" means partial agreement with a caveat.
Worked examples
How do you handle two-passage questions?
- Summarize Text 1's exact claim in one sentence before reading Text 2.
- Read Text 2 asking one question: does it agree, disagree, complicate, or add a new angle?
- Find the specific point both texts address — the answer always lives there.
- Match the relationship precisely: 'would disagree' needs direct conflict; 'would qualify' means partial agreement with a caveat.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Picking a choice that's true about one text but doesn't describe the RELATIONSHIP between them.
- Overstating disagreement. Often Text 2 only limits or complicates Text 1 rather than rejecting it.
- Missing shared ground on agreement questions — look for the premise both authors accept.
- Assuming the second text is always opposed to the first.
41 questions, 41 distinct question types · you answer 12 at a time and can keep going for as long as you like.
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Frequently asked questions
What are Cross-Text Connections questions on the SAT?
They present two short passages, usually Text 1 and Text 2, written by different authors about a related subject. The question asks how the two connect, often how one author would respond to the other's view, or where they agree or disagree. Your task is to compare the perspectives accurately and pick the choice that reflects both texts, not just one.
How do I compare two passages quickly?
Read Text 1 and pin down its main claim in a few words. Do the same for Text 2. Then decide the relationship: agreement, disagreement, or a different focus. Watch for whether the second author qualifies, challenges, or extends the first. Answer the exact question asked, and make sure your choice is supported by both passages rather than one.
Why do I keep missing questions with two passages?
Often students lock onto one text and forget the other, or they choose an answer that's true of a single passage but not the relationship. Track each author's position separately, then compare. Be careful with agree or disagree wording, and check the direction of the relationship. The right answer must be consistent with what both authors actually claim.
How can I tell whether the authors agree or disagree?
Focus on their central claims, not side details. Two authors can share facts but draw opposite conclusions, or disagree on causes while agreeing on outcomes. Ask what each one would say about the other's main point. Notice any language of concession or contrast. If the question asks how one would respond, predict that response before reading the choices.