Kaplan Standardized Tests Preparation 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: On the SAT Writing and Language section, when a question asks you to choose the best transition word, what should you evaluate first?
- The length of the sentence
- The logical relationship between the ideas being connected (Correct answer)
- Whether the word sounds formal enough
- The punctuation that follows the transition
Correct answer: The logical relationship between the ideas being connected
Transition words signal contrast, cause-effect, or addition, so identifying the logical relationship determines the correct choice.
Question 2: Which of the following best describes the purpose of a Kaplan 'strategic preview' on test day?
- Reading the entire test from start to finish before answering
- Quickly reviewing each question's stem to prioritize easy questions first (Correct answer)
- Memorizing formulas during the preview period
- Asking the proctor for clarification on instructions
Correct answer: Quickly reviewing each question's stem to prioritize easy questions first
A strategic preview helps you identify high-value, easier questions to tackle first and maximize your score within the time limit.
Question 3: On the GRE Analytical Writing 'Analyze an Argument' task, what does the prompt specifically ask you to do?
- State whether you agree or disagree with the argument
- Evaluate the logical soundness of the argument's reasoning (Correct answer)
- Provide additional evidence to support the argument
- Rewrite the argument in clearer language
Correct answer: Evaluate the logical soundness of the argument's reasoning
The Analyze an Argument task requires you to critique the logical validity of the given argument, not share your personal opinion.
Question 4: Which MCAT section tests biochemistry, molecular biology, and cellular biology?
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Correct answer)
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Correct answer: Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
The Biological and Biochemical Foundations section covers biochemistry, genetics, and cellular processes central to living systems.
Question 5: When using Kaplan's 'Backsolving' strategy on a math problem, you typically start by plugging in which answer choice first?
- Choice A, the smallest value
- Choice B or D, a middle-range value
- Choice C, the middle value (Correct answer)
- The largest value to eliminate quickly
Correct answer: Choice C, the middle value
Starting with the middle answer (C) lets you determine whether you need a larger or smaller value, cutting your remaining choices in half.
Question 6: On the ACT English section, the 'NO CHANGE' answer choice should be selected when:
- You run out of time
- The underlined portion is already the clearest and most grammatically correct option (Correct answer)
- The question seems too easy
- None of the other choices make grammatical sense
Correct answer: The underlined portion is already the clearest and most grammatically correct option
NO CHANGE is a legitimate correct answer whenever the original text is already grammatically correct and stylistically appropriate.
Question 7: What does the Kaplan 'Predict Before You Peek' strategy help prevent on test day?
- Running out of time on the math section
- Being seduced by attractive but incorrect answer choices (Correct answer)
- Misreading the question stem
- Second-guessing correct answers
Correct answer: Being seduced by attractive but incorrect answer choices
Formulating your own answer before reading the choices guards against misleading distractors designed to look appealing.
Kaplan Standardized Tests Preparation 3
On the SAT Writing and Language section, when a question asks you to choose the best transition word, what should you evaluate first?