Section 3: Paragraph Comprehension (PC)

Time Limit: 420 Seconds

In this section, you will see one or more paragraphs of reading material. After each paragraph, there will be a question or an incomplete sentence. After reading each paragraph, select one of the four choices which best answers the question or completes the sentence.

  1. Using the mouse, click on the answer that you believe is correct.
  2. Click on the button marked ‘Next Question’ when you are ready to proceed to the next question.
  3. You may review and change your answers by clicking on the button marked ‘Previous Question’.
  4. You will have 7 minutes to answer 8 questions
  5. Click on the button below when you are ready to begin this section of the test.

What is the Paragraph Comprehension section (PC) of the AFQT?

The Paragraph Comprehension subtest is 8 questions based on several short passages written on a variety of topics. No prior knowledge of the subject will be required—all the information you will need to answer the questions will be found in the passage. The questions test two different skills:

  • Literal comprehension: your ability to identify stated facts, identify reworded facts, and determine the sequence of events
  • Implicit, inferential, or critical comprehension: your ability to draw conclusions; identify the main idea of a paragraph; determine the author’s purpose, mood, or tone; and identify style and technique

How does the AFQT prep test with Mast Station compare with the real AFQT test?

The preparatory test with Mast Station is a great way to gauge how you will do on the actual AFQT when enlisting. The exam here will be a shorter version (fewer questions) but very similar in the content, subjects, and format of questions. Getting a high score with Mast Station does not guarantee results on the actual AFQT exam, but does allow you to understand prepare better for the exam. 

How Will I Know My Results

After you complete all the sections in this preparatory exam, you will receive an email with the results to the email address that you enter after you complete the exam. Additionally, if you were sent a link to take this exam by your recruiter, they will also receive your results and should contact you directly. Please do not contact Mast Station for questions about your exam or scores. All questions should be directed to the recruiter that assigned you this exam. 

Here are the steps you should take, depending on your AFQT score on the first practice test:

  • If your AFQT is below 29, you need more help in reading and/or math. You should spend plenty of time reviewing the lessons and practice questions found in this book.
  • If your AFQT is 29–31, be sure to focus on your weakest subjects in the review lessons and practice questions that are found in this book.
  • If your AFQT is above 31, review the areas that give you trouble.

Understanding the Armed Forces Qualifying Test (AFQT) Score

All branches of the military compute your AFQT score—the one that determines whether or not you can enlist—in the same way. Only the Verbal Expression (which you determined by adding Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension scores and then converting to a scaled score), Arithmetic Reasoning, and Mathematics Knowledge scaled scores count toward your AFQT.

Understanding the ASVAB

ASVAB is a multiple-aptitude test battery consisting of nine subtests. Five of these
subtests—General Science, Auto and Shop Information, Mechanical Comprehension, Assembling
Objects, and Electronics Information—are designed to determine what your aptitudes are for different
jobs. However, only four of the ASVAB subtests—Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge—count toward your Armed Forces Qualifying Test (AFQT) score, which
determines whether or not you can enlist in the military

Where Are The Tests Taken?

There are around 65 Military Entrance Processing Stations, commonly referred to as MEPS, where the ASVAB is taken. There are scattered throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico and are controlled by the Department of Defense. All tests taken at these sites are administered via a computer.

What Should I Bring?

A valid government-issued identification is required in order to register to take the exam. However, any other personal items, including any study material or a calculator, should be left at home or in your vehicle.

When is it Scored?

If you have taken the ASVAB using a computer, you will get your test results as soon as you finish the exam at the testing site. However, if you have taken it via the paper and pencil form, you will have to wait until your battery has been sent to a MEPS and scored. Your recruiter will then be notified as to when your results will be available to you.

How To Prepare?

The first step is to complete your test with Maststation and see how well you score. Your recruiter should automatically receive your scores once the test has been completed in its entirety and will assist you with additional preparation if needed.

Additional Preparation for ASVAB Test Online Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, there are many courses online that offer a complete course prep. These courses are designed to provide you with every resource you will need to pass the ASVAB. These Courses should include:

  • In-Depth Lessons Covering all the Topics
  • ASVAB Practice Questions
  • Video Tutorials
  • Electronic Flashcards
  • Money-back Guarantee
  • Free Mobile Access