FREE SAT Logical Transitions Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

The study of ancient paleoclimates often relies on proxy data, such as ice cores and tree rings, which provide indirect evidence of past environmental conditions. These methods have yielded invaluable insights into Earth's long-term climate cycles. __________, they are not without their limitations; the resolution of this data can be ambiguous, and local variations can sometimes be mistaken for global trends.

Accepted Answer

To be sure

Answer

The first sentences establish the value of proxy data. The final clause introduces limitations. The transition 'To be sure' correctly signals a concession, acknowledging the validity of the first point (the value of proxy data) before introducing a counterpoint or limitation. 'Specifically' would introduce a detailed example, 'Indeed' would add emphasis to the first point, and 'As a result' would indicate a cause-and-effect relationship, none of which fit the logical structure.

Question 2

Many amateur astronomers believe that observing faint deep-sky objects requires a large, expensive telescope. This belief often deters beginners from even attempting to view galaxies or nebulae. __________, many of these celestial wonders are visible with modest binoculars, provided the observer is under truly dark skies far from city lights.

Accepted Answer

In reality

Answer

The first two sentences describe a common misconception. The third sentence directly refutes this misconception by presenting the actual situation. 'In reality' is the ideal transition to introduce a correction or contrast to a previously stated belief or appearance. 'Furthermore' would add another supporting reason for the misconception, 'For instance' would provide an example of the misconception, and 'Similarly' would introduce a comparable belief, all of which are incorrect.

Question 3

The Cambrian explosion, a period of rapid evolutionary diversification approximately 541 million years ago, saw the emergence of most major animal phyla. For decades, scientists believed this event occurred over a relatively brief span of 20-25 million years. More recent fossil discoveries and improved radiometric dating techniques have revised this estimate; __________, the diversification may have been a more gradual process, unfolding over a period closer to 70 million years.

Accepted Answer

That is

Answer

The first sentences describe the traditional understanding of the Cambrian explosion's timeframe. The final sentence clarifies and re-states the implication of the 'revised estimate' mentioned just before it. 'That is' functions to introduce an explanation, definition, or clarification of a preceding statement. 'Consequently' implies a result, 'Nevertheless' introduces an overriding contrast, and 'Moreover' adds another, separate piece of information. The final sentence isn't a result or a contrast but a specific clarification of what the 'revised estimate' means.

Question 4

The development of non-stick cookware in the 1950s revolutionized home cooking by making cleanup significantly easier. The polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating prevented food from adhering to pans. __________, this same chemical property, its extreme inertness, made it a critical component in manufacturing gaskets and seals for handling highly corrosive materials in industrial settings.

Accepted Answer

Incidentally

Answer

The main topic is the use of PTFE in cookware. The second sentence introduces a separate, less directly related but interesting application of the same technology. 'Incidentally' is used to introduce a point that is related but tangential to the main subject. 'In contrast' would signal an opposing idea. 'For example' would provide a specific instance of cookware. 'Meanwhile' would suggest two events happening simultaneously, which isn't the logical connection here.

Question 5

The city council's new zoning ordinance was intended to encourage the development of mixed-use properties in the downtown area. The ordinance successfully streamlined the permit process for developers. __________, due to a lack of accompanying investment in public transit, the area has seen a dramatic increase in traffic congestion, undermining one of the primary goals of creating a more walkable city center.

Accepted Answer

Be that as it may

Answer

The second sentence notes a positive outcome of the ordinance (streamlined permits). The third sentence introduces a significant negative outcome that overrides the positive one. 'Be that as it may' is an advanced transition used to concede a point (the permit process was improved) before introducing a more important, contrasting point (but traffic got worse). 'Then' implies sequence, 'In other words' implies restatement, and 'For this reason' implies a result, none of which capture the complex relationship of concession and override.

Bluebook SAT Practice Test Practice Test

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FREE SAT Logical Transitions Questions and Answers 2