The reading and writing parts of the interview use short official vocabulary lists from USCIS. Because the lists are limited, you can prepare for both parts by drilling the same set of words.
The reading test
The officer shows you a sentence and you read it out loud. You get up to three tries and need to read one sentence correctly. The sentences use common civics and history words, plus question words like who, what, when, and where. You do not have to read perfectly. You have to read clearly enough to be understood.
The writing test
The officer reads a sentence out loud and you write it. Again, up to three tries, one correct sentence needed. Spelling does not have to be perfect. The sentence has to be readable and clearly the right one. Practice by having someone dictate the sentences while you write them by hand.
Words that come up often
The lists include civics words like citizen, Congress, President, right, and vote, and history words like Washington, Lincoln, and country. They also include everyday connecting words. Because the same words repeat, a few focused sessions cover most of what you will see.
How to practice
Read the reading sentences out loud every day. For writing, write by hand, not on a screen, because you write by hand at the interview. Say and spell the tricky words until they feel automatic.
Practice the official reading and writing sentences for free, in your language.
Citizenship Answers is an independent study aid and is not affiliated with USCIS.