Nelson-Denny Reading Test Reading Comprehension 2

Question 1

A passage states: 'Despite widespread belief that multitasking increases productivity, research consistently shows that switching between tasks reduces efficiency by up to 40%.' What is the author's primary purpose?

Accepted Answer

To challenge a common assumption with research evidence

Answer

To encourage readers to multitask more effectively

Answer

To explain why efficiency cannot be measured accurately

Answer

To argue that productivity is an outdated concept

Question 2

Which reading comprehension strategy involves restating a passage's main idea in your own words to check understanding?

Accepted Answer

Paraphrasing

Answer

Skimming

Answer

Scanning

Answer

Annotating

Question 3

A passage describes a scientist who 'meticulously documented every variable but drew sweeping conclusions from a sample of only twelve participants.' What flaw does this imply?

Accepted Answer

The sample size is too small to support broad conclusions

Answer

The scientist used too many variables

Answer

The documentation methods were flawed

Answer

The conclusions were not documented properly

Question 4

In a Nelson-Denny passage, an author writes: 'The policy was not without its critics.' What does this phrase mean?

Accepted Answer

Some people criticized the policy

Answer

The policy had no critics

Answer

Critics were not allowed to comment

Answer

The policy was universally praised

Question 5

A passage's final paragraph introduces a new example that supports the thesis stated in the first paragraph. What is the structural role of this final paragraph?

Accepted Answer

Elaboration and support

Answer

Refutation

Answer

Transition

Answer

Counterargument

Question 6

When a Nelson-Denny question asks for the 'tone' of a passage, what is it asking you to identify?

Accepted Answer

The author's attitude or emotional stance toward the subject

Answer

The volume at which the passage should be read

Answer

The number of arguments in the passage

Answer

The intended audience's reading level

Question 7

A passage states that a new treatment 'may reduce symptoms in some patients.' A reader concludes that the treatment 'cures all patients.' This is an example of what reading error?

Accepted Answer

Over-generalization beyond what the text states

Answer

Accurate inference

Answer

Correct literal comprehension

Answer

Appropriate use of prior knowledge