Reading

On ACT Reading, what makes the correct answer to a detail question correct?

It is directly stated or paraphrased in the passage. Detail questions reward locating explicit text, not memory or outside knowledge — find the line that proves it.

An inference on ACT Reading must be ___ by the passage?

Supported (or logically required) by the passage. A correct inference is a small step beyond what is stated but must rest on textual evidence — never a guess or outside assumption.

What is the difference between what a passage states and what it implies?

Stated information is written explicitly in the text; implied information is suggested through evidence and must be inferred. Detail questions test the stated; inference questions test the implied.

When an answer choice goes further than the passage supports, what is the trap called?

An over-reach (or 'too extreme') answer. Watch for absolute words like always, never, all, none, or only — the text usually supports a more moderate claim.

What should you do before answering a specific-detail question that gives a line reference?

Read a sentence or two above and below the cited line. Context around the reference usually contains the evidence the answer depends on.