What should you focus on to improve comprehension while reading a passage?

Focusing on the main idea and the author's tone is crucial for improving comprehension while reading a passage. The main idea encompasses the central theme or argument that the author is presenting, which serves as a framework for understanding the overall message of the text. Grasping the main idea allows a reader to connect various supporting details and examples presented throughout the passage.

Additionally, understanding the author's tone enhances comprehension by providing insights into how the author feels about the subject. Tone can influence the reader's interpretation of the text and provide context for the arguments or points being made. Recognizing whether the tone is persuasive, critical, informative, or emotional can guide a reader in discerning the author’s intentions and the weight of the arguments.

Focusing narrowly on specific vocabulary or jargon might lead to getting caught up in terminology without understanding the broader context, which can hinder overall comprehension. Similarly, complex sentence structures may pose challenges, but they primarily serve as vehicles for conveying the main ideas. Lastly, the length of the passage does not inherently affect comprehension; what matters more is the clarity of the ideas presented and how they are structured.