What is a recommended first step when approaching questions after reading a passage?

Skimming the passage to gain a general understanding before tackling specific questions is advisable as it helps to grasp the overall theme, structure, and main ideas presented in the text. This preliminary approach allows readers to familiarize themselves with the content, making it easier to locate details when answering the questions. By understanding the broader context, readers can also make more informed interpretations of the material, which enhances comprehension and retention. This strategy sets a solid foundation for more effective reading and analysis of the passage's nuances, ultimately leading to better performance when answering questions based on the text.