NES Essential Academic Skills Reading Practice Test 2026-2027 and Free Sample Questions

Read the passage: "Maria glanced at the clock for the third time in five minutes. She tapped her pen against the desk and kept watching the classroom door. When it finally opened, she let out a long breath and smiled." Based on the passage, it can be inferred that Maria was:

Read the passage: "The negotiations had reached an impasse. Neither side would compromise, and after hours of discussion, the talks stalled completely with no agreement in sight." As used in the passage, the word "impasse" most nearly means:

Read the passage: "Switching to reusable water bottles is one simple change everyone can make. Plastic bottles clog landfills and pollute oceans for centuries. A single reusable bottle can replace hundreds of disposable ones. Make the switch today and help protect the planet." The author's primary purpose is to:

Read the passage: "First, gather all the ingredients you will need. Next, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Then, mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Finally, pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30 minutes." Which organizational structure does this passage use?

Read the sentences: "The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean on Earth. It is also the most beautiful place a person could ever visit." Which statement from the passage is an opinion?

Read the passage: "Sea turtles face many threats today. Plastic pollution can be mistaken for food and eaten. Coastal development destroys the beaches where they nest. Warming ocean temperatures also affect their survival." According to the passage, which is one threat to sea turtles?

Read the passage: "The streets were empty, and shop windows were dark. A few stray newspapers tumbled in the wind. Somewhere a dog barked, then fell silent. Nothing else moved in the entire town." Which conclusion is best supported by the passage?

Read the passage: "Despite the team's meager budget, the coach found creative ways to train the players. With so few resources, every dollar had to be stretched." As used in the passage, the word "meager" most nearly means:

Read the passage: "What a disaster the trip turned out to be. The flight was delayed for six hours, the hotel lost our reservation, and it rained every single day. I could not wait to go home." Which word best describes the author's tone?

Read the passage: "Sleep is essential for the brain. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, clears out waste products, and restores energy. People who consistently lack sleep often struggle with focus, mood, and decision making." What is the main idea of the passage?

Read the passage: "Both online courses and traditional classes can lead to a degree. Online courses offer flexible scheduling and can be taken from anywhere. Traditional classes, on the other hand, provide face-to-face interaction and a fixed routine." According to the passage, one difference between online and traditional courses is that:

Read the passage: "James double-checked the locks, pulled the curtains shut, and left a light on in the hallway. He had read the news about the recent break-ins on his street." It can be inferred that James:

Read the passage: "Heavy rains fell on the region for three straight days. As a result, the river rose above its banks and flooded several neighborhoods, forcing dozens of families to evacuate their homes." According to the passage, what caused the families to evacuate?

Read the passage: "The scientist was elated when the experiment finally succeeded. After years of failed attempts, she could hardly contain her joy." As used in the passage, the word "elated" most nearly means:

Read the passage: "Regular reading builds vocabulary and knowledge. For example, a child who reads about dinosaurs may learn dozens of new words and facts in a single book." The author includes the example about a child reading about dinosaurs in order to:

Read the passage: "Carlos woke up early and ate a quick breakfast. He then drove to the station and boarded the 8 a.m. train. By the time he reached the city, the morning meeting had already started." According to the passage, what did Carlos do immediately after eating breakfast?

Read the passage: "The young athlete lost every race in her first season. Instead of quitting, she trained harder each week. By the next year, she had earned a place on the championship team." Which statement best expresses the central message of the passage?

Read the passage: "To stay healthy, people should drink enough water each day. Water helps regulate body temperature, supports digestion, and keeps joints lubricated." Which sentence, if added, would be most relevant to the passage?

Read the passage: "The instructions were ambiguous, leaving the team unsure of what to do next. Some members thought one thing, while others believed the opposite." As used in the passage, the word "ambiguous" most nearly means: