ScoreFluentPart 3 is the longest work in Reading: 20 questions over six short texts. It is also the part where the time you saved in Part 1 pays off. This guide covers the format, how it is scored, a worked example, four strategy points and how to practise it.
The format. Part 3 of 3 in Reading · 2 sets, each with 3 related texts and 10 multiple-choice questions, 20 in total · four options, one correct answer · most questions tied to one text, some across the set · part of the 65-minute, 50-question section · no negative marking.
What does MET Reading Part 3 ask you to do?
You read three short texts on a related topic, then answer ten questions about them. Michigan describes this as a set of texts on a related topic. The texts differ in format and purpose, so one set might hold a notice, a message and a reply. Some questions ask about one text only. Others need you to connect ideas from more than one.
Part 3 follows the single-text passages of Part 2 and builds on the same three subskills: global, local and inferential reading. See also MET Reading, parts and timing.
How is Part 3 scored?
By computer, one mark for each correct answer, with no deduction for a wrong one. Part 3 carries 20 of the 50 Reading questions, so it weighs as much as the grammar part. The section result is a 0 to 80 score, and Michigan publishes no raw-to-scaled table. See how MET is scored.
What does a linked-text set look like?
This mini set was written by ScoreFluent. It is not a real exam item.
Text A (notice): Community garden open day, Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring a friend and take home free seedlings. Text B (email): Hi Dana, I would love to come on Saturday but I have a football match until noon. Is it still worth coming later? Text C (reply): Yes, come at 12.30. The seedling table is busy in the morning and there is usually plenty left after lunch.
When will Dana's friend most likely arrive at the garden? A) 10 a.m. B) 12 noon C) 12.30 p.m. D) 2 p.m.
This question spans the set. Text A gives the opening hours, Text B shows the constraint (busy until noon) and Text C gives the advice. The answer is C, and you only reach it by joining B and C. Option B is a trap: noon is when the match ends, not when the friend will arrive.
Four strategy points
- Label each text first. Note in a few words what each is for. Most questions then become a decision between texts rather than a search through all three.
- Read the stem, then go to the right text. Check whether the question names a text or asks about the set before you start looking.
- Join, do not guess. A cross-text question needs a fact from one text and a condition from another. Find both before you choose.
- Watch the clock. Part 3 takes the most time per question. Keep Part 1 quick so you are not rushing here.
How does ScoreFluent practise Part 3?
In the app the item is called "Part 3 — Multi Text". Each set shows three labelled texts and ten questions, most tied to one text and one across the set. Questions are tagged by subskill, so you can see whether connecting ideas is your weak point. Results are practice estimates, not official MET scores.
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Back to Part 1, grammar completion, MET Reading or the full list of MET task guides.
How to improve at MET Reading Part 3, multi text
Skills to build
- Finding the exact detail
- Getting the main point
- Tracking what "it" and "this" point back to
- Joining information from different places
- Reading between the lines
Common misconceptions
- "Every question needs all three texts." Nine in ten questions point to one text. Find that text first, then read it closely.
- "The whole-set question works like the others." Only one question needs all three texts. Save it for last, once you know each angle.
- "The three texts all say the same thing." They share a theme but take different angles. Note each angle in one word.
What you can practise in the app
In the app, you can practise this task with lessons and practice drills.
Questions students ask
What is MET Reading Part 3?
Part 3 gives you two sets of three related short texts, with ten multiple-choice questions on each set. That makes 20 of the 50 Reading questions, the same share as Part 1.
Does every question in Part 3 need all three texts?
No. Most questions point to one of the three texts, and some span the set as a whole. ScoreFluent's practice sets follow that pattern, with most questions tied to a single text and one question across all three.
What kinds of text appear together in a Part 3 set?
The three texts share a topic but can differ in format and purpose, for example an announcement, a review, an email or a reply. Noticing what each one is for is the quickest way into the questions.