TEAS 7 Reading Study Guide

The TEAS Reading section tests your ability to understand written passages. This section has 45 questions and you get 55 minutes to complete it. You’ll see different types of passages including stories, articles, and informational texts.

This guide covers everything you need to know. Each topic includes clear explanations, examples, and practice questions. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident about the reading section.

The reading section is divided into three main areas. Each area tests different reading skills that nurses need every day.

Overview of the Reading Section

What You Need to Know

The Reading section contains 45 total questions. Only 39 questions count toward your score. The other 6 questions are unscored test questions.

You have 55 minutes to complete this section. That gives you about 1 minute and 20 seconds per question. Some passages have multiple questions, so you’ll need to manage your time well.

The questions come in different formats. Most are multiple choice with four options. Some questions ask you to select all correct answers. A few questions require you to type in an answer or click on part of an image.

Types of Passages You’ll See

Reading passages cover many topics. You might read about science, health, history, or everyday situations. Some passages tell stories while others give information or try to persuade you.

Most passages are 200 to 400 words long. A few shorter passages might only be 100 words. You’ll also see some visual materials like charts, graphs, and tables.

The topics don’t require special knowledge. Everything you need to answer questions is in the passage itself. Focus on understanding what you read rather than what you already know about the topic.

Key Ideas and Details

This section tests your ability to find the main ideas and important details in passages. You’ll see 15 questions about these skills. These are fundamental reading skills that help you understand any text.

Good readers can quickly identify what a passage is really about. They can also find specific information and understand how ideas connect to each other.

Identifying Main Ideas and Purpose

The main idea is the most important point in a passage. It’s what the author wants you to understand above everything else. Sometimes the main idea is stated directly. Other times you need to figure it out from the details.

Look for the main idea in the first or last paragraph. Authors often state their main point at the beginning or end. Topic sentences in paragraphs also give clues about the main idea.

Ask yourself these questions: What is this passage mostly about? If you could only remember one thing, what would it be? What point is the author trying to make?

Practice Question:

Read this passage:

“Regular exercise provides many health benefits. It strengthens your heart and improves blood flow throughout your body. Exercise also helps control weight and reduces stress. People who exercise regularly tend to sleep better at night. Most doctors recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise five days per week.”

What is the main idea of this passage?

A) Exercise helps you sleep better
B) Doctors recommend 30 minutes of exercise daily
C) Regular exercise provides many health benefits
D) Exercise strengthens your heart

Answer: C) Regular exercise provides many health benefits

Explanation: The first sentence states the main idea directly. All the other sentences give specific examples of those health benefits. Options A and D are supporting details, not the main idea. Option B is also a supporting detail and incorrectly states “daily” instead of “five days per week.”

Finding Supporting Details and Evidence

Supporting details are facts, examples, or explanations that back up the main idea. They help prove or explain the author’s main point. Good readers can distinguish between major details and minor details.

Major details directly support the main idea. Minor details might give extra information but aren’t essential to understanding the main point.

When looking for supporting details, pay attention to signal words. Words like “for example,” “in addition,” “furthermore,” and “specifically” often introduce supporting details.

Practice Question:

Read this passage:

“Proper handwashing is the best way to prevent the spread of germs. First, wet your hands with clean running water. Next, apply soap and rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to scrub between your fingers and under your nails. Finally, rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.”

Which detail supports the main idea that proper handwashing prevents germs?

A) Use clean running water
B) Rub hands together for at least 20 seconds
C) Dry with a clean towel
D) All of the above

Answer: D) All of the above

Explanation: The main idea is that proper handwashing prevents germs. All the steps listed (clean water, scrubbing for 20 seconds, and using a clean towel) are important parts of proper handwashing technique. Each detail supports the main idea by describing how to wash hands correctly.

Summarizing and Paraphrasing

A summary captures the main points of a passage in fewer words. It includes the main idea and the most important supporting details. A good summary leaves out minor details and examples.

Paraphrasing means restating information in your own words. Unlike summarizing, paraphrasing might be the same length as the original text. Both skills help you understand and remember what you read.

When creating a summary, include only the most essential information. Ask yourself what someone would need to know to understand the passage’s main message.

Practice Question:

Read this passage:

“The human brain weighs about three pounds and contains roughly 86 billion nerve cells called neurons. These neurons communicate with each other through electrical and chemical signals. The brain controls all body functions including breathing, heart rate, and movement. It also handles complex tasks like thinking, memory, and emotions. Different parts of the brain have specialized functions, but they work together as one system.”

Which sentence best summarizes this passage?

A) The brain weighs three pounds and has 86 billion neurons
B) The brain controls body functions and handles complex mental tasks
C) Neurons communicate through electrical and chemical signals
D) Different brain parts work together as one system

Answer: B) The brain controls body functions and handles complex mental tasks

Explanation: This option captures both major functions described in the passage – controlling basic body functions and handling complex mental processes. Option A gives specific details but misses the main point about brain function. Options C and D each focus on only one aspect mentioned in the passage.

Following Written Directions

Many passages give step-by-step instructions. You need to understand the order of steps and what each step requires. Pay attention to sequence words like “first,” “next,” “then,” and “finally.”

Some directions include warnings or special conditions. Look for words like “before,” “after,” “only if,” and “unless.” These words tell you when or when not to do something.

Read all directions completely before starting. Make sure you understand what the end result should be.

Practice Question:

Read these directions:

“To check your pulse, place two fingers on your wrist below your thumb. Do not use your thumb to feel for the pulse. Count the beats for 15 seconds, then multiply by 4 to get your heart rate per minute. If you cannot find your pulse on your wrist, try placing your fingers on your neck beside your windpipe.”

According to the directions, when should you use your neck to check your pulse?

A) Always, because it’s more accurate
B) Only if you cannot find your pulse on your wrist
C) Before trying your wrist
D) After counting for 15 seconds

Answer: B) Only if you cannot find your pulse on your wrist

Explanation: The directions clearly state to try the neck location “if you cannot find your pulse on your wrist.” This is presented as an alternative method, not the first choice or something to do in addition to the wrist method.

Interpreting Charts, Graphs, and Visual Data

Visual information like charts and graphs present data in an organized way. You need to read titles, labels, and legends to understand what the visual shows.

Bar charts compare amounts between different groups. Line graphs show changes over time. Pie charts show how parts make up a whole. Tables organize information in rows and columns.

Always read the title first to understand the topic. Then look at labels on axes or columns to understand what’s being measured.

Practice Question:

Look at this table:

Based on this table, which age group needs the most daily water? A) 5-10 years B) 11-18 years C) 19-30 years and 31-50 years D) Over 50 years

Answer: C) 19-30 years and 31-50 years

Explanation: Both the 19-30 and 31-50 age groups show 8-10 glasses as the recommended daily intake, which is the highest amount shown in the table. The other age groups have lower recommendations.

Craft and Structure

This section tests your understanding of how authors write and organize their ideas. You’ll see 9 questions about these skills. These questions focus on the author’s choices and how text is put together.

Understanding craft and structure helps you read more critically. You’ll better understand why authors write certain ways and how their choices affect meaning.

Author’s Point of View and Perspective

Point of view refers to who is telling the story or presenting information. First person uses “I” and “we.” Second person uses “you.” Third person uses “he,” “she,” and “they.”

The author’s perspective is their particular way of looking at a topic. It includes their opinions, beliefs, and experiences. Different authors might write about the same topic from completely different perspectives.

Look for clue words that show the author’s viewpoint. Words like “I believe,” “clearly,” “obviously,” and “unfortunately” show the author’s opinion.

Practice Question:

Read this passage:

“As a nurse for over 20 years, I have seen how technology has transformed patient care. Electronic health records allow us to access patient information instantly. We can now monitor vital signs remotely and catch problems before they become serious. While some older nurses resist these changes, I believe technology makes our jobs easier and improves patient safety.”

What is the author’s perspective on technology in nursing?

A) Technology is too complicated for older nurses
B) Technology has improved patient care and nursing practice
C) Electronic health records are the most important advancement
D) Technology should be avoided in patient care

Answer: B) Technology has improved patient care and nursing practice

Explanation: The author uses phrases like “transformed patient care,” “makes our jobs easier,” and “improves patient safety” to show a positive view of technology. The author gives specific examples of benefits while acknowledging that some nurses resist change.

Author’s Purpose and Intent

Authors write for different reasons. The main purposes are to inform, persuade, entertain, or explain. Some texts have more than one purpose, but usually one purpose is primary.

To inform means giving facts or teaching about a topic. To persuade means trying to convince readers to believe or do something. To entertain means amusing readers or telling an interesting story. To explain means making something clear or showing how it works.

Look at the language and tone to determine purpose. Informational texts use neutral language. Persuasive texts use emotional words and strong opinions. Entertaining texts might use humor or suspense.

Practice Question:

Read this passage:

“Every person should learn basic first aid skills. Imagine if your child choked at dinner and you didn’t know what to do. Or picture yourself finding someone unconscious in a parking lot. With just a few hours of training, you could save a life. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Sign up for a first aid class today.”

What is the author’s primary purpose?

A) To inform readers about first aid techniques
B) To persuade readers to take a first aid class
C) To entertain readers with dramatic scenarios
D) To explain how choking and unconsciousness occur

Answer: B) To persuade readers to take a first aid class

Explanation: The author uses emotional scenarios (“imagine if your child choked”) and direct commands (“don’t wait,” “sign up today”) to convince readers to take action. While the passage mentions first aid, the goal is persuasion, not just providing information.

Distinguishing Fact from Opinion

Facts are statements that can be proven true or false through evidence. Opinions are beliefs, feelings, or judgments that cannot be proven. Authors often mix facts and opinions in their writing.

Look for opinion signal words like “believe,” “think,” “feel,” “should,” “best,” “worst,” “beautiful,” and “terrible.” Numbers, dates, and scientific information are usually factual.

Be careful with statements that seem factual but include opinion words. “The most important discovery” includes both a fact (there was a discovery) and an opinion (it’s the most important).

Practice Question:

Read these statements:

1. “Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.”
2. “Everyone should exercise at least 30 minutes daily.”
3. “Doctors recommend regular check-ups for people over 40.”
4. “Vegetables taste better when they’re fresh.”

Which statements are opinions?

A) Statements 1 and 3
B) Statements 2 and 4
C) Statements 1 and 2
D) Statements 3 and 4

Answer: B) Statements 2 and 4

Explanation: Statement 2 uses “should,” which expresses what the author thinks people ought to do. Statement 4 includes “taste better,” which is a personal judgment. Statements 1 and 3 can be verified with medical data and statistics.

Understanding Words and Phrases in Context

Context clues help you understand unfamiliar words without using a dictionary. The words and sentences around an unknown word often give hints about its meaning.

Types of context clues include definitions, examples, comparisons, and contrasts. Sometimes the author directly defines a word. Other times you need to use logic and the surrounding information.

Don’t just guess randomly. Use the context to make an educated guess that makes sense in the sentence.

Practice Question:

Read this sentence:

“The medication had a therapeutic effect on the patient, helping to reduce pain and improve mobility.”

Based on context clues, what does “therapeutic” most likely mean?

A) Harmful or dangerous
B) Expensive or costly
C) Healing or beneficial
D) Quick or immediate

Answer: C) Healing or beneficial

Explanation: The context shows that the medication “helped reduce pain and improve mobility,” which are positive healing effects. The word “helping” also suggests something beneficial rather than harmful.

Using Text Features and Structure

Text features help organize information and make it easier to find. These include headings, subheadings, bold text, lists, and captions. Understanding text structure helps you follow the author’s ideas.

Common organizational patterns include chronological order, cause and effect, compare and contrast, and problem and solution. Signal words help identify these patterns.

Use headings and subheadings to preview the text and understand how information is organized before you read in detail.

Practice Question:

Look at this text structure:

The Problem with Hospital Infections Hospital-acquired infections affect thousands of patients each year…

Why Infections Spread Poor hand hygiene is the leading cause… Contaminated equipment also contributes…

Solutions That Work Regular hand washing reduces infections by 40%… Proper sterilization procedures eliminate most bacteria…

This text is organized using which pattern?

A) Chronological order
B) Compare and contrast
C) Problem and solution
D) Cause and effect

Answer: C) Problem and solution

Explanation: The headings clearly show this pattern – first identifying a problem (hospital infections), then explaining why it happens, and finally presenting solutions. The structure moves from problem identification to proposed solutions.

Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

This section tests your ability to combine information from different sources and make connections. You’ll see 15 questions about these advanced reading skills. These skills help you think critically about what you read.

Good readers don’t just understand individual texts. They can compare different sources, evaluate arguments, and use evidence to support their thinking.

Evaluating and Synthesizing Information

Synthesizing means combining information from multiple sources to form new understanding. You might need to compare two passages about the same topic or use information from a chart along with a written passage.

Look for similarities and differences between sources. Notice when sources agree or disagree with each other. Sometimes different sources provide different pieces of the same puzzle.

Pay attention to how reliable each source is. Consider the author’s credentials, when it was written, and whether the information seems current and accurate.

Practice Question:

Read these two short passages:

Passage 1: “Studies show that people who eat breakfast have better concentration throughout the morning. Breakfast provides the brain with glucose, which is essential for mental function.”

Passage 2: “Many successful people skip breakfast to save time. They drink coffee instead and report feeling more productive when their stomach isn’t full.”

What can you conclude by combining information from both passages?

A) Breakfast is always necessary for good health
B) Coffee is better than breakfast for productivity
C) People have different experiences with breakfast and productivity
D) Scientific studies are wrong about breakfast

Answer: C) People have different experiences with breakfast and productivity

Explanation: Passage 1 presents scientific evidence about breakfast benefits, while Passage 2 describes personal experiences of people who skip breakfast. Rather than contradicting each other completely, they show that different approaches work for different people.

Making Predictions and Inferences

Inferences are conclusions you reach based on evidence and reasoning. The author doesn’t state these ideas directly, but you can figure them out from the information given.

Predictions are educated guesses about what might happen next or what you might find in additional information. Use what you know from the passage plus logical thinking.

Good inferences are supported by evidence from the text. Avoid wild guesses that don’t connect to the information provided.

Practice Question:

Read this passage:

“Maria had been studying for her nursing exam for weeks. She reviewed her notes every night and took practice tests on weekends. The morning of the exam, she ate a healthy breakfast and arrived early at the testing center. She took deep breaths and reminded herself of all her preparation.”

What can you infer about Maria?

A) She is not confident about the exam
B) She has good study habits and preparation strategies
C) She will definitely pass the exam
D) She is taking the exam for the second time

Answer: B) She has good study habits and preparation strategies

Explanation: The passage shows Maria studying consistently (“every night,” “on weekends”), eating well, arriving early, and using stress management techniques. These all indicate good preparation strategies. We cannot conclude she lacks confidence, will definitely pass, or is retaking the exam.

Analyzing Arguments and Evidence

Arguments present claims supported by evidence. Strong arguments use reliable evidence that directly supports their claims. Weak arguments might use irrelevant evidence or make claims without support.

Look for the main claim or conclusion the author wants you to accept. Then examine the evidence provided. Ask whether the evidence actually supports the claim and whether it comes from reliable sources.

Watch out for emotional language that tries to persuade without providing real evidence. Good arguments rely on facts and logical reasoning.

Practice Question:

Read this argument:

“Hospitals should require all staff to get annual flu shots. Last year, 15% of our hospital staff got the flu during flu season. This led to staffing shortages and increased risk for patients. The CDC reports that flu vaccination reduces flu risk by 40-60% when the vaccine is well-matched to circulating viruses. Requiring vaccination would protect both staff and patients.”

What evidence does the author use to support requiring flu shots?

A) Staff shortages occurred due to flu illness
B) Flu vaccination reduces risk by 40-60%
C) Both A and B
D) The author’s personal opinion

Answer: C) Both A and B

Explanation: The author provides two pieces of evidence: specific data about staff illness rates and consequences (15% got flu, causing shortages) and CDC statistics about vaccine effectiveness (40-60% risk reduction). Both pieces of evidence directly support the argument for requiring vaccination.

Understanding Themes and Universal Ideas

Themes are the big ideas or messages that run through a text. They’re often about universal human experiences like love, courage, growing up, or overcoming challenges.

In informational texts, themes might be about important concepts like the value of education, the importance of health, or how technology changes society.

Themes are different from topics. The topic is what the text is about. The theme is the deeper message or meaning about that topic.

Practice Question:

Read this passage:

“When Jake started nursing school, he struggled with the demanding coursework and long clinical hours. Many of his classmates seemed to understand concepts that confused him. Instead of giving up, Jake formed study groups, sought help from instructors, and practiced skills until he mastered them. By graduation, he had become one of the top students in his class.”

What theme does this passage illustrate?

A) Nursing school is very difficult
B) Some students are naturally smarter than others
C) Persistence and hard work lead to success
D) Study groups are the best way to learn

Answer: C) Persistence and hard work lead to success

Explanation: The passage shows how Jake overcame initial struggles through determination, seeking help, and continued practice. This illustrates the universal theme that persistence and effort can overcome initial difficulties and lead to achievement.

Analyzing Narrative Elements and Literary Devices

Even in informational texts, authors use narrative elements and literary devices to make their writing more engaging. These might include examples, analogies, metaphors, or storytelling techniques.

Understanding these devices helps you better comprehend the author’s message and remember important information. Authors often use stories or examples to illustrate complex concepts.

Pay attention to how authors use description, comparison, and narrative examples to support their main points.

Practice Question:

Read this passage:

“Learning medical terminology is like learning a new language. At first, the words seem foreign and impossible to remember. But just as children gradually learn to speak by hearing words repeatedly, nursing students master medical terms through constant exposure and practice. Eventually, these complex terms become as natural as everyday conversation.”

What literary device does the author use to explain learning medical terminology?

A) A detailed example
B) An analogy or comparison
C) A personal story
D) Statistical evidence

Answer: B) An analogy or comparison

Explanation: The author compares learning medical terminology to learning a new language and to how children learn to speak. This analogy helps readers understand the process by comparing it to something familiar.

Evaluating Source Credibility

Credible sources provide accurate, reliable information. When evaluating sources, consider the author’s qualifications, the publication date, and whether the information seems objective and well-researched.

Look for sources written by experts in their field. Check if the author has relevant education or experience. Recent publication dates are usually better for topics that change quickly.

Be cautious of sources that seem biased or that make claims without providing evidence. Good sources cite their own sources and acknowledge different viewpoints.

Practice Question:

Which source would be most credible for information about heart disease treatment?

A) A blog post by someone who had heart surgery
B) A 2023 article in the Journal of Cardiology by Dr. Smith, a cardiologist
C) A 1995 newspaper article about heart disease
D) A social media post by a fitness trainer

Answer: B) A 2023 article in the Journal of Cardiology by Dr. Smith, a cardiologist

Explanation: This source combines several credibility factors: the author is a medical expert in the relevant field, it’s published in a professional medical journal (which involves peer review), and it’s recent. Personal experiences, old information, and non-expert opinions are less reliable for medical information.

Test-Taking Strategies and Tips

Time Management

You have 55 minutes for 45 questions. Spend about 1 minute per question, but don’t watch the clock constantly. Some questions will take less time, others more.

Read questions before reading long passages. This helps you know what to look for while reading. For passages with multiple questions, answer all questions about that passage before moving on.

If you’re stuck on a question, mark your best guess and move on. You can return later if time allows. Don’t leave any questions blank.

Active Reading Techniques

Preview each passage quickly before reading in detail. Look at headings, bold text, and the first and last paragraphs to get an overview.

Read with purpose. If questions ask about main ideas, focus on topic sentences and conclusions. If questions ask about details, pay attention to specific facts and examples.

Take brief notes or underline key points as you read. This helps you find information quickly when answering questions.

Question Analysis

Read each question carefully before looking at answer choices. Understand exactly what the question is asking.

Eliminate obviously wrong answers first. This improves your chances if you need to guess between remaining options.

Look for absolute words like “always,” “never,” “all,” and “none.” These answers are often incorrect because few things are absolute.

Choose the best answer among the options given, even if it’s not perfect. The correct answer doesn’t have to be ideal, just better than the other choices.

This comprehensive guide covers all the essential skills for the TEAS Reading section. Practice these strategies with sample passages and questions. Focus extra attention on areas where you need improvement. With thorough preparation, you can achieve your target score on this important section.