Reading Comprehension Skills Flashcards

A passage reads: 'The company's profits have increased exponentially over the past decade.' What does 'exponentially' suggest about the growth?

Answer: Growth was rapid and accelerating

'Exponentially' means at a rate that increases rapidly and dramatically, much faster than a steady or linear rate.

You read a memo: 'Effective immediately, all expense reports must be submitted within 72 hours of travel completion.' When must a report be submitted if travel ended on Monday at noon?

Answer: By Thursday at noon

72 hours after Monday noon is Thursday noon, so the deadline is Thursday at 12:00 p.m.

A passage says: 'The diplomat's remarks were deliberately ambiguous, leaving both sides room to interpret them favorably.' What does 'ambiguous' mean?

Answer: Open to more than one interpretation

'Ambiguous' means having more than one possible meaning, making it unclear which interpretation is correct.

A warning label reads: 'Flammable — Keep Away from Heat, Sparks, and Open Flames.' A candle is burning nearby. Is this a concern?

Answer: Yes, an open flame is listed as a hazard

The label specifically lists 'open flames' as a hazard, and a candle is an open flame.

A passage reads: 'The study's results were inconclusive, suggesting further research is needed.' What can you infer about the study?

Answer: It did not produce a definitive answer

'Inconclusive' means the results did not clearly confirm or deny the hypothesis, so no firm conclusion was reached.

You read: 'The policy applies to all employees, regardless of seniority.' Who does the policy cover?

Answer: Every employee at every level

'Regardless of seniority' means the policy makes no exceptions based on how long someone has worked there — it covers everyone.

A sentence reads: 'The historian's account was lauded for its objectivity.' What does 'lauded' mean?

Answer: Praised highly

'Lauded' means highly praised or commended, indicating the account received positive recognition.