PERT Practice Test 2026 – Comprehensive Study Guide for Postsecondary Education Readiness Success!

The reading section of the PERT assesses not only basic comprehension skills but also the ability to analyze arguments and understand the author's intent. This skill involves going beyond merely identifying what is stated in the text; it requires the reader to evaluate the persuasive techniques and underlying messages within the writing. Analyzing arguments involves discerning the strength and validity of claims, recognizing biases, and understanding the context in which the author is writing. This type of critical reading is essential for college-level coursework, where students often encounter complex texts that require a deeper level of engagement to extract meaning and make informed conclusions.

The other options do not align with the specific focus of the reading section. For example, writing abilities are not directly assessed in reading comprehension tasks, as they focus on understanding and interpreting text rather than producing it. Mathematical reasoning pertains to quantitative skills, which are evaluated in a separate section. Lastly, while time management skills can be important for test-taking in general, they are not considered a specific area of assessment within the reading section itself. Thus, the correct choice highlights the advanced cognitive skills required for effective reading in an academic context, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of texts.