Question 1: In a dataset, the values are tightly clustered around the mean. This indicates what about the standard deviation?

• It is large
• It is small (Correct answer)
• It equals the mean
• It is negative

Correct answer: It is small

Data tightly clustered around the mean has low spread and therefore a small standard deviation.

Question 2: Which expression equals (2x + 1)(x - 3)?

• 2x^2 - 5x + 3
• 2x^2 - 6x - 3
• 2x^2 + 5x - 3
• 2x^2 - 5x - 3 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 2x^2 - 5x - 3

FOIL gives 2x^2 - 6x + x - 3 = 2x^2 - 5x - 3.

Question 3: Which version of the sentence is MOST concise without losing meaning? 'Due to the fact that it was raining outside, the outdoor concert event was cancelled and called off.'

• The outdoor concert was cancelled on account of the rainy weather conditions outside.
• Because it rained, the concert was cancelled. (Correct answer)
• Due to the fact that it was raining, the outdoor concert was cancelled.
• The fact that rain was falling outside caused the outdoor concert event to be cancelled and called off.

Correct answer: Because it rained, the concert was cancelled.

'Because it rained, the concert was cancelled' eliminates all redundancy ('due to the fact that,' 'outdoor,' 'event,' and 'called off') while preserving the full meaning.

Question 4: In an analysis, what does it mean to evaluate an author's diction?

• Examining the author's word choice (Correct answer)
• Measuring sentence length
• Checking the punctuation
• Counting the paragraphs

Correct answer: Examining the author's word choice

Diction refers to an author's specific choice of words and their connotations.

Question 5: If 5x - 7 = 3x + 9, what is the value of x?

• 16
• 8 (Correct answer)
• 4
• 6

Correct answer: 8

Subtract 3x and add 7: 2x = 16, so x = 8.

Question 6: As used in context, 'The governor's *conciliatory* speech helped ease tensions between the two groups,' the word 'conciliatory' most nearly means:

• Politically motivated
• Aggressive
• Lengthy and detailed
• Intended to reduce hostility (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Intended to reduce hostility

Conciliatory describes actions or words intended to make an angry or hostile party more friendly.

Question 7: A circle has radius 5. What is its circumference? (Use π ≈ 3.14)

• 15.7
• 78.5
• 31.4 (Correct answer)
• 10

Correct answer: 31.4

C = 2πr = 2 × 3.14 × 5 = 31.4.

Question 8: When a passage uses a graph showing rising values alongside text, a question may ask whether the data 'supports' a claim. You must:

• Compare the graph's trend to the claim's assertion (Correct answer)
• Always answer 'supports'
• Ignore the axis labels
• Trust the text over the graph

Correct answer: Compare the graph's trend to the claim's assertion

Data-interpretation questions require checking whether the graph's actual trend matches the claim.

Question 9: A data set has a mean of 50 and one extremely high outlier is added. The mean will most likely:

• Increase (Correct answer)
• Stay the same
• Decrease
• Become zero

Correct answer: Increase

A high outlier pulls the mean upward.

Question 10: What is the solution to the equation 4x - 7 = 13?

• x = 6
• x = 2
• x = 5 (Correct answer)
• x = 3

Correct answer: x = 5

To solve the equation 4x - 7 = 13, first add 7 to both sides of the equation to isolate the term with x, resulting in 4x = 20. Then, divide both sides by 4 to solve for x. This yields x = 5 as the solution.

Question 11: The mode of the data set 4, 6, 6, 7, 9, 6, 11 is what value?

• 11
• 7
• 6 (Correct answer)
• 9

Correct answer: 6

The value 6 appears most often (three times), so it is the mode.

Question 12: A biologist is studying the growth of a certain plant species. The scatterplot for the plant's height over time shows a positive linear association. The line of best fit is given by the equation y = 1.8x + 5.2, where y is the height of the plant in centimeters and x is the number of weeks since the study began. What is the best interpretation of the slope of the line of best fit?

• For each additional week, the plant's predicted height increases by 1.8 cm. (Correct answer)
• For each additional week, the plant's predicted height increases by 5.2 cm.
• The plant's predicted initial height at the start of the study was 5.2 cm.
• The plant's predicted initial height at the start of the study was 1.8 cm.

Correct answer: For each additional week, the plant's predicted height increases by 1.8 cm.

In a linear equation of the form y = mx + b, 'm' represents the slope. The slope describes the rate of change, meaning how much the y-variable changes for a one-unit increase in the x-variable. In this context, y is the height and x is the number of weeks. Therefore, the slope of 1.8 means that for every additional week, the plant's height is predicted to increase by 1.8 cm.

Question 13: The circumference of a circle is 10π. What is its radius?

• 10
• 2.5
• 5 (Correct answer)
• 20

Correct answer: 5

Circumference = 2πr, so 2πr = 10π gives r = 5.

Question 14: What is the value of the expression (x^3 · x^4) when written as a single power of x?

• x^7 (Correct answer)
• x^34
• x^12
• x^1

Correct answer: x^7

When multiplying powers with the same base, add the exponents: 3 + 4 = 7.

Question 15: The expression (x² − 4) / (x − 2) is undefined when x equals:

• 4
• 2 (Correct answer)
• 0
• −2

Correct answer: 2

The expression is undefined when the denominator equals zero: x − 2 = 0, so x = 2.

Question 16: A graph's vertical axis starts at 90 instead of 0, exaggerating differences. This is an example of what?

• A logarithmic conversion
• A misleading or distorted scale (Correct answer)
• A median split
• A correct standardized scale

Correct answer: A misleading or distorted scale

Truncating the axis exaggerates visual differences, a common misleading technique.

Question 17: Which expression is equivalent to 3(2x + 4)?

• 6x + 4
• 5x + 7
• 6x + 7
• 6x + 12 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 6x + 12

Distribute: 3 × 2x = 6x and 3 × 4 = 12.

Question 18: A data question asks which statement is consistent with a graph showing rising temperatures from 2000 to 2020. Which is consistent?

• Temperatures were highest in 2000
• Temperatures stayed flat after 2010
• Temperatures increased over the two-decade period (Correct answer)
• Temperatures fell sharply in 2015

Correct answer: Temperatures increased over the two-decade period

A rising trend means temperatures increased across the period.

Question 19: A sample of 50 voters was randomly selected from a city to estimate election results. What is this type of study best described as?

• A controlled trial
• An observational sample survey (Correct answer)
• A census
• An experiment

Correct answer: An observational sample survey

Selecting a sample to estimate a population without treatment is a sample survey.

Question 20: In a science passage, a researcher's data 'challenges the prevailing consensus.' This implies the findings are:

• Irrelevant to the field
• Universally accepted already
• Contradicting what most experts hold (Correct answer)
• Confirming established belief

Correct answer: Contradicting what most experts hold

To challenge a consensus means the data opposes the majority view.

Question 21: Which choice best combines these sentences: "The report was long. The report was thorough."?

• The report was long, the report thorough.
• Long and thorough, the report was the report.
• The report was long and thorough. (Correct answer)
• The report, long, was thorough report.

Correct answer: The report was long and thorough.

Joining the two adjectives with "and" creates a smooth, concise sentence.

Question 22: A narrator describes a character's 'measured tone' during an argument. This detail characterizes the character as:

• Wildly emotional
• Uninterested
• Calm and controlled (Correct answer)
• Dishonest

Correct answer: Calm and controlled

A measured tone indicates deliberate self-control rather than emotional outbursts.

Question 23: A writer is drafting an introduction about space exploration. Which opening sentence would be MOST effective?

• I am going to tell you about space exploration in this essay.
• Space is very large and contains many planets, stars, and other celestial objects.
• This essay is about space exploration and why it matters.
• Space exploration, from the first moon landing to current Mars missions, has fundamentally transformed our understanding of the universe. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Space exploration, from the first moon landing to current Mars missions, has fundamentally transformed our understanding of the universe.

This choice engages readers with specific examples and a compelling claim, avoiding the vague, formulaic structures of the other options.

Question 24: A writer wants to transition between a paragraph about the causes of the Civil War and one about its immediate consequences. Which transition would be MOST effective?

• The Civil War began in 1861 and ended in 1865.
• In addition to these historical causes,
• However, some historians disagree about the causes.
• These underlying tensions, once ignited by the conflict itself, produced immediate and far-reaching consequences. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: These underlying tensions, once ignited by the conflict itself, produced immediate and far-reaching consequences.

This transition smoothly connects the causes discussed previously to the consequences that follow, creating a logical and cohesive bridge between the two paragraphs.

Question 25: Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

• The test was hard; many students struggled. (Correct answer)
• The test was hard; and many struggled.
• The test was hard; but easy.
• The test; was hard for students.

Correct answer: The test was hard; many students struggled.

A semicolon correctly joins two related independent clauses without a conjunction.

Question 26: A rectangle has a length of 12 and a width of 5. What is the length of its diagonal?

• 60
• 7
• 13 (Correct answer)
• 17

Correct answer: 13

The diagonal is √(12² + 5²) = √169 = 13.

Question 27: What is the next step after isolating the variable in a linear equation?

• Multiply both sides by the variable.
• Simplify both sides to find the value of the variable. (Correct answer)
• Divide both sides by the coefficient.
• Add more variables to the equation.

Correct answer: Simplify both sides to find the value of the variable.

After isolating the variable in a linear equation, the next logical step is to simplify the numerical expression on the other side of the equation. This simplification process involves performing any remaining arithmetic operations to calculate the exact numerical value of the isolated variable. This yields the final solution to the equation.

Question 28: An author writes that a policy 'may have unintended consequences.' Which evidence best supports calling the author's stance cautious?

• The date the policy was enacted
• A list of the policy's official sponsors
• The number of pages in the report
• The hedging phrase 'may have' showing uncertainty (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The hedging phrase 'may have' showing uncertainty

Tentative wording like 'may have' signals a cautious, qualified stance.

Question 29: In a class, the ratio of boys to girls is 4:7. How many extra boys should be enrolled in a class with 44 students to achieve a 1:1 ratio?

• 12 (Correct answer)
• 10
• 5
• 14

Correct answer: 12

The initial ratio of boys to girls is 4:7, meaning there are 11 parts in total. In a class of 44 students, each part represents 44 / 11 = 4 students. This means there are 4 * 4 = 16 boys and 7 * 4 = 28 girls. To achieve a 1:1 ratio, the number of boys must equal the number of girls, which is 28. Therefore, 28 - 16 = 12 extra boys need to be enrolled.

Question 30: If g(x) = 5 - x and g(a) = 2, what is the value of a?

• -3
• -7
• 3 (Correct answer)
• 7

Correct answer: 3

Set 5 - a = 2, so a = 3.

Question 31: The hikers were tired ___ exhilarated after reaching the summit. Which choice signals contrast?

• so
• for
• but (Correct answer)
• and

Correct answer: but

"But" contrasts being tired with being exhilarated.

Question 32: If the system y = 2x and y = x + 4 is solved, what is the value of x?

• 8
• 6
• 2
• 4 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 4

Setting 2x = x + 4 gives x = 4.

Question 33: What makes an answer choice a 'trap' in Command of Evidence questions?

• It quotes the passage exactly
• It uses simple vocabulary
• It is grammatically perfect
• It relates to the passage's topic but does not prove the specific claim (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It relates to the passage's topic but does not prove the specific claim

Trap answers are topically relevant yet fail to support the precise claim.

Question 34: What is the value of x in the equation x^2 = 16?

• x = 4
• x = -4
• x = 4 or x = -4 (Correct answer)
• x = 16

Correct answer: x = 4 or x = -4

To find the value of x in the equation x^2 = 16, you need to take the square root of both sides. Remember that a positive number has two square roots: a positive one and a negative one. Therefore, both 4 (since 4*4=16) and -4 (since -4*-4=16) are valid solutions for x.

Question 35: An author shifts from formal language to casual slang mid-essay. Analyzing this shift, you would examine its effect on:

• The page numbering
• Tone and audience connection (Correct answer)
• The font choice
• The citation format

Correct answer: Tone and audience connection

A shift in register affects the tone and how the author relates to the audience.

Question 36: An author cites a respected historian to support a claim. This technique builds:

• Ethos through expert authority (Correct answer)
• Irony through contrast
• Logos through humor
• Pathos through emotion

Correct answer: Ethos through expert authority

Referencing a credible expert strengthens the author's authority, an ethos appeal.

Question 37: A passage argues that bees are vital pollinators. Which detail best supports this claim?

• A note that bees can sting
• A statement that bees live in hives
• A description of a bee's striped coloring
• A figure stating bees pollinate about one-third of food crops (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A figure stating bees pollinate about one-third of food crops

The crop-pollination figure directly demonstrates the bees' importance.

Question 38: The sum of three consecutive integers is 48. What is the largest?

• 18
• 17 (Correct answer)
• 15
• 16

Correct answer: 17

The integers are 15, 16, 17; the largest is 17.

Question 39: At a local fair, a combo meal that includes a hot dog and a soda costs $8. A family buys 4 combo meals. A different family buys 3 hot dogs and 5 sodas for a total of $30. If h is the cost of a hot dog and s is the cost of a soda, which of the following systems of equations can be used to determine the price of a hot dog and a soda?

• 4(h + s) = 8 3h + 5s = 30
• h + s = 8 3h + 5s = 30 (Correct answer)
• h + s = 8 5h + 3s = 30
• 4h + 4s = 8 3h + 5s = 30

Correct answer: h + s = 8 3h + 5s = 30

The first statement says a combo meal with one hot dog (h) and one soda (s) costs $8. This translates to the equation h + s = 8. The second statement says 3 hot dogs (3h) and 5 sodas (5s) cost a total of $30, which translates to the equation 3h + 5s = 30. The information about the family buying 4 combo meals is extra information not needed to set up the system. Therefore, the correct system is h + s = 8 and 3h + 5s = 30.

Question 40: A car rental company charges a flat fee of $50 plus an additional $0.75 for every mile driven. Which of the following inequalities represents the maximum number of miles, m, a person can drive if they have a budget of no more than $200?

• 50m + 0.75 ≤ 200
• 50 + 0.75m ≤ 200 (Correct answer)
• 50 + 0.75m > 200
• 50 + 0.75m < 200

Correct answer: 50 + 0.75m ≤ 200

The total cost is the sum of the flat fee ($50) and the variable cost ($0.75 per mile, or 0.75m). The phrase 'no more than $200' means the total cost can be less than or equal to $200. Therefore, the inequality that represents this situation is 50 + 0.75m ≤ 200.

Question 41: Solve for x: (x/3) + 2 = 7.

• 15 (Correct answer)
• 12
• 9
• 21

Correct answer: 15

Subtract 2 to get x/3 = 5, then multiply by 3 for x = 15.

Question 42: What is the median of 4, 8, 6, 10, 2?

• 6 (Correct answer)
• 4
• 10
• 8

Correct answer: 6

Ordered: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10; the middle value is 6.

Question 43: A 45-45-90 triangle has legs of length 7. What is the hypotenuse?

• 7√3
• 7
• 7√2 (Correct answer)
• 14

Correct answer: 7√2

In a 45-45-90 triangle the hypotenuse is a leg times √2, so 7√2.

Question 44: An inference question asks what is 'most strongly suggested' by a paragraph. The best answer is:

• A logical conclusion supported by the text (Correct answer)
• Contradicted by the passage
• Explicitly stated word-for-word
• A personal opinion

Correct answer: A logical conclusion supported by the text

Inferences must follow logically from textual evidence without being directly stated.

Question 45: If a shirt costs $40 after a 20% discount, what was its original price?

• $48
• $50 (Correct answer)
• $60
• $52

Correct answer: $50

$40 is 80% of the original, so original = 40 / 0.8 = $50.

Question 46: A line has slope 2 and passes through the point (1, 3). What is its y-intercept?

• 2
• 5
• 3
• 1 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 1

Using y = 2x + b with (1,3): 3 = 2(1) + b, so b = 1.

Question 47: If f(x) = x² and g(x) = x − 3, what is f(g(x))?

• x² − 3
• x² − 9
• x² − 6x + 9 (Correct answer)
• x² + 9

Correct answer: x² − 6x + 9

f(g(x)) = f(x − 3) = (x − 3)² = x² − 6x + 9.

Question 48: Which sentence uses the correct form of 'there,' 'their,' or 'they're'?

• Theyre going to the park.
• Their going to the park.
• They’re going to the park.
• There going to the park.

The sentence 'They’re going to the park' correctly uses 'they’re,' which is a contraction for 'they are.' 'Their' is a possessive pronoun, and 'there' indicates a place or existence. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for correct grammar and clear communication.

Question 49: How does the author support their argument?

• By making generalizations without supporting facts.
• Through personal anecdotes.
• By using humor and rhetorical questions.
• By presenting statistical data and expert opinions. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: By presenting statistical data and expert opinions.

Authors typically support their arguments in academic or persuasive writing by providing credible evidence. Statistical data offers objective, measurable facts, while expert opinions lend authority and specialized knowledge to the claims. These forms of evidence strengthen the argument, making it more convincing and reliable for the reader.

Question 50: In a circle, an inscribed angle that subtends a diameter measures what?

• 60°
• 180°
• 45°
• 90° (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 90°

An inscribed angle subtending a diameter is always a right angle.

Question 51: If the probability of an event is 0.3, what is the probability that it does NOT occur?

• 1.3
• 0.5
• 0.3
• 0.7 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 0.7

The complement is 1 − 0.3 = 0.7.

Question 52: In context, 'novel' in 'a novel approach to recycling' most nearly means:

• A work of fiction
• New or original (Correct answer)
• Traditional
• Lengthy

Correct answer: New or original

Here 'novel' is an adjective meaning new or innovative.

Question 53: The new manager, hoping to improve team morale, decided to implement a new policy ______ everyone could leave an hour early on Fridays.

• in that
• that (Correct answer)
• which
• of which

Correct answer: that

The correct choice is 'that'. The clause 'everyone could leave an hour early on Fridays' is a restrictive clause because it is essential to understanding what the 'new policy' is. The word 'that' is used to introduce restrictive clauses. 'Which' is typically used for non-restrictive clauses (extra information) and would require a comma before it.

Question 54: An author argues that reading aloud improves memory. Which study result best supports this?

• A description of the library where the study occurred
• The year the study was published
• The number of researchers involved
• Participants who read aloud recalled 15% more words than silent readers (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Participants who read aloud recalled 15% more words than silent readers

The recall comparison directly demonstrates improved memory from reading aloud.

Question 55: A two-way table shows 30 of 50 surveyed teens own a bike. What fraction own a bike?

• 2/5
• 3/10
• 3/5 (Correct answer)
• 1/2

Correct answer: 3/5

30 out of 50 simplifies to 3/5.

Question 56: A 'best supports' evidence question follows a general question. The correct line reference must:

• Mention a date
• Logically back the answer to the prior question (Correct answer)
• Be the longest quote
• Come from the introduction

Correct answer: Logically back the answer to the prior question

The supporting lines must directly justify the answer to the preceding question.

Question 57: An author repeats the phrase "We can do better" three times in a speech. This device is called:

• Allusion
• Hyperbole
• Juxtaposition
• Repetition (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Repetition

Deliberately repeating a phrase for emphasis is the device of repetition.

Question 58: What is the value of x if 12/X = 30/6?

• 2.4 (Correct answer)
• 2.8
• 3.5
• 3.1

Correct answer: 2.4

Explanation: <br> A proportion such as this can be solved by taking the cross product of the numerators and denominators from either side. <br> 12/x = 30/6 Take the cross product by cross multiplication. <br> 30x = 6 x 12 Multiply 6 by 12. <br> 30x = 72 Divide each side by 30. <br> x = 2.4

Question 59: Which transition best fits: 'The plan was risky. ___, the board approved it.'?

• Therefore
• Nevertheless (Correct answer)
• Likewise
• For example

Correct answer: Nevertheless

'Nevertheless' signals a contrast between risk and approval.

Question 60: The novel was praised for its vivid imagery ___ its complex characters. Which choice correctly joins the items?

• and (Correct answer)
• nor
• but
• or

Correct answer: and

"And" joins two complementary positive qualities in a parallel list.

Question 61: If 2 pounds of apples cost $3.60, what is the cost per pound?

• $2.00
• $2.40
• $1.20
• $1.80 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $1.80

$3.60 ÷ 2 = $1.80 per pound.

Question 62: Choose the option that fixes the faulty parallelism: "She likes hiking, swimming, and to bike."

• to hike, swim, and biking
• hiking, to swim, and biking
• to hike, swimming, and to bike
• hiking, swimming, and biking (Correct answer)

Correct answer: hiking, swimming, and biking

All three items should share the same -ing gerund form for parallel structure.

Question 63: This passage is adapted from a 2017 article on the psychology of decision-making. The phenomenon of 'analysis paralysis' is a well-documented cognitive trap. When presented with an overabundance of options, individuals often experience a decline in decision-making ability. A classic study demonstrated this with a simple experiment involving jam. Shoppers in a gourmet market were presented with a tasting booth that displayed either a small selection of six jams or a large selection of twenty-four. While the larger display attracted more onlookers, it resulted in significantly fewer purchases. The shoppers who saw the extensive display were one-tenth as likely to buy a jar of jam as those who saw the smaller selection. The study's authors concluded that the sheer number of choices can be demotivating, leading potential customers to disengage entirely rather than undertake the mentally taxing process of comparing and contrasting numerous similar options. This suggests that while we may believe we want more choices, we are often happier and more decisive with fewer. The passage suggests that having too many options can lead to which of the following outcomes?

• Increased customer engagement but lower sales.
• A feeling of being overwhelmed and making no choice at all. (Correct answer)
• Greater interest from a wider range of shoppers.
• A tendency to purchase less expensive items.

Correct answer: A feeling of being overwhelmed and making no choice at all.

The passage states that an 'overabundance of options' can be 'demotivating, leading potential customers to disengage entirely.' This directly supports the idea that too many choices can overwhelm individuals and result in them making no decision.

Question 64: What is the circumference of a circle with a radius of 7 units?

• 14π units (Correct answer)
• 7π units
• 21π units
• 49π units

Correct answer: 14π units

The circumference of a circle is the distance around its edge, calculated using the formula 2πr, where 'r' is the radius. For a circle with a radius of 7 units, the circumference is 2 * π * 7 units. This calculation results in 14π units, representing the total length of the circle's boundary.

Question 65: Which equation represents the line with a slope of 2 and a y-intercept of -3?

• y = 2x - 3 (Correct answer)
• y = -2x - 3
• y = -2x + 3
• y = 2x + 3

Correct answer: y = 2x - 3

The slope-intercept form of a linear equation is y = mx + b, where 'm' represents the slope and 'b' represents the y-intercept. Given a slope of 2 (m=2) and a y-intercept of -3 (b=-3), substituting these values directly into the formula yields the equation y = 2x - 3.

Question 66: A right triangle has legs of length 6 and 8. What is the length of the hypotenuse?

• 10 (Correct answer)
• 14
• 12
• 48

Correct answer: 10

By the Pythagorean theorem, √(6² + 8²) = √100 = 10.

Question 67: The word 'indigenous' in 'These plants are *indigenous* to the rainforests of South America' most nearly means:

• Cultivated by farmers
• Originating naturally in a place (Correct answer)
• Endangered or rare
• Imported from elsewhere

Correct answer: Originating naturally in a place

Indigenous means originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.

Question 68: As used in 'The diplomat offered only *ambiguous* answers, leaving reporters confused,' the word 'ambiguous' most nearly means:

• Thoughtful and measured
• Direct and honest
• Open to more than one interpretation (Correct answer)
• Politically charged

Correct answer: Open to more than one interpretation

Ambiguous means open to multiple interpretations, creating uncertainty or confusion.

Question 69: In a rhetorical analysis essay, what should the thesis statement do?

• Agree or disagree with the author's claim
• Summarize the passage's main events
• State how the author builds the argument (Correct answer)
• List every rhetorical device used

Correct answer: State how the author builds the argument

A rhetorical analysis thesis explains how the author constructs the argument, not whether you agree.

Question 70: What is the strategy for solving a word problem involving averages?

• Subtract the smallest number from the largest number.
• Multiply all the numbers together and divide by the total count.
• Add the numbers in pairs and find the middle value.
• Add all the numbers together and divide by the total count. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Add all the numbers together and divide by the total count.

The strategy for solving a word problem involving averages (or the mean) is to sum all the individual numbers or values provided in the data set. Once the total sum is calculated, you then divide this sum by the total count of numbers in the set. This calculation yields the arithmetic mean, which represents the average value.

Question 71: What is the conclusion of the passage?

• The conclusion provides no clear takeaway.
• The conclusion reinforces the main argument and leaves the reader with a lasting impression. (Correct answer)
• The conclusion introduces a new unrelated topic.
• The conclusion suggests further research is needed.

Correct answer: The conclusion reinforces the main argument and leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

A strong conclusion effectively reinforces the main argument by summarizing key points and reiterating the thesis in a fresh, impactful way. It serves to solidify the author's message and leave the reader with a clear, lasting impression of the passage's central idea. This ensures the reader understands the significance of the information presented and the author's final stance.

Question 72: If 3(2x - 1) = 15, what is the value of x?

• 3 (Correct answer)
• 6
• 2
• 4

Correct answer: 3

Divide by 3 to get 2x - 1 = 5, so 2x = 6 and x = 3.

Question 73: A primary purpose question asks what a passage chiefly accomplishes. The correct answer should reflect:

• An unrelated tangent
• The overall main goal of the whole passage (Correct answer)
• A single minor detail
• Only the final sentence

Correct answer: The overall main goal of the whole passage

Main-purpose answers must capture the passage as a whole, not one detail.

Question 74: Why is it important to read a few lines before and after a referenced line when choosing evidence?

• Context can change whether the line actually supports the claim (Correct answer)
• The surrounding lines are always the answer
• It helps memorize the passage
• It is required to count the words

Correct answer: Context can change whether the line actually supports the claim

Context clarifies a line's true meaning and relevance to the claim.

Question 75: A 12-ounce drink contains 9 grams of sugar. A 20-ounce drink has sugar at the same concentration. How many grams of sugar does it contain?

• 12 grams
• 18 grams
• 15 grams (Correct answer)
• 21 grams

Correct answer: 15 grams

Set 9/12 = x/20, giving x = 180/12 = 15 grams.

Question 76: What is the solution to the equation 3(x + 2) = 18?

• x = 10
• x = 4 (Correct answer)
• x = 6
• x = 2

Correct answer: x = 4

To solve the equation 3(x + 2) = 18, first divide both sides by 3, which simplifies the equation to x + 2 = 6. Next, subtract 2 from both sides of the equation to isolate x. This operation yields x = 4 as the solution.

Question 77: Each of the volunteers ___ asked to bring a signed permission form. Which verb is correct?

• was (Correct answer)
• are
• have been
• were

Correct answer: was

"Each" is singular and takes a singular verb regardless of the plural noun that follows.

Question 78: What is the best way to organize the body paragraphs of an essay?

• Each paragraph should present opposing arguments.
• Each paragraph should focus on introducing new topics.
• Each paragraph should be a summary of the introduction.
• Each paragraph should focus on a different argument supporting the thesis. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Each paragraph should focus on a different argument supporting the thesis.

Effective essay organization dictates that each body paragraph should focus on developing a single, distinct argument or point. This argument must directly support the overall thesis statement of the essay. This structure ensures clarity, logical progression, and allows the writer to present evidence and analysis for one specific idea before moving to the next, preventing disorganization.

Question 79: Identify the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement.

• Neither the coach nor the players be ready.
• Neither the coach nor the players was ready.
• Neither the coach nor the players is ready.
• Neither the coach nor the players are ready. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Neither the coach nor the players are ready.

With 'nor,' the verb agrees with the nearer subject 'players.'

Question 80: What is the purpose of creating a histogram from a data set?

• To show the exact value of each data point.
• To calculate the mean of the data.
• To visualize the frequency distribution of the data. (Correct answer)
• To determine the median of the data.

Correct answer: To visualize the frequency distribution of the data.

A histogram is a graphical representation that organizes a group of data points into user-specified ranges, or bins. Its primary purpose is to visualize the frequency distribution of continuous data, showing how often values fall into different intervals. This allows for a quick understanding of the data's shape, spread, and central tendency.

Question 81: Choose the correct sentence ending punctuation: 'Could you please send the report by noon'

• report by noon!
• report by noon? (Correct answer)
• report by noon;
• report by noon.

Correct answer: report by noon?

A polite request phrased as a question takes a question mark.

Question 82: A tone question asks about the author's attitude toward a new policy. Evidence for tone comes mainly from:

• The number of paragraphs
• The title font
• Word choice and connotation (Correct answer)
• Line numbering

Correct answer: Word choice and connotation

Tone is revealed through diction and the connotations of chosen words.

Question 83: A function is defined by f(x) = 3x + b and f(0) = 4. What is b?

• 3
• 4 (Correct answer)
• 0
• 12

Correct answer: 4

f(0) = 3(0) + b = b, so b = 4.

Question 84: Select the most precise word: 'The author's argument was very ___.'

• persuasive (Correct answer)
• good
• okay
• nice

Correct answer: persuasive

'Persuasive' conveys precise meaning about an argument.

Question 85: Which of the following sentences is correctly capitalized?

• The big dog ran quickly.
• the Big dog ran quickly.
• the big Dog ran Quickly.
• the Big Dog Ran Quickly.

The sentence 'The big dog ran quickly' is correctly capitalized. Standard English capitalization rules dictate that only the first word of a sentence and proper nouns should be capitalized. In this sentence, 'The' is capitalized as it begins the sentence, while 'big,' 'dog,' 'ran,' and 'quickly' are common words and remain lowercase.

Question 86: A probability table shows an event occurs 18 times in 60 trials. What is the experimental probability?

• 0.6
• 0.18
• 0.42
• 0.3 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 0.3

Experimental probability is 18/60 = 0.3.

Question 87: What is the slope of the line passing through the points (2, 3) and (6, 11)?

• 8
• 2 (Correct answer)
• 1/2
• 4

Correct answer: 2

Slope = (11 - 3)/(6 - 2) = 8/4 = 2.

Question 88: The cost C, in dollars, of producing n goods, according to a corporate management, is C equals 7 n plus 350. Each item costs $12 at the company. When the total money from selling a number of products exceeds the total cost of producing that quantity of items, the company generates a profit. Which of the following inequalities contains all potential values of n for which the manager expects the company to profit?

• n > 80
• n < 80
• n > 70 (Correct answer)
• n < 70

Correct answer: n > 70

The cost of producing 'n' goods is given by C = 7n + 350. The revenue from selling 'n' goods is R = 12n, since each item sells for $12. A profit is generated when the total revenue exceeds the total cost, so R > C. This translates to the inequality 12n > 7n + 350. Subtracting 7n from both sides gives 5n > 350, and dividing by 5 yields n > 70. Thus, the company profits when more than 70 items are sold.

Question 89: The mean of five numbers is 12. If four of the numbers are 8, 10, 14, and 16, what is the fifth number?

• 10
• 14
• 12 (Correct answer)
• 16

Correct answer: 12

The total must be 5 × 12 = 60; the four known sum to 48, so the fifth is 12.

Question 90: A bag has 3 red, 5 blue, and 2 green marbles. What is the probability of drawing a blue marble?

• 5/10
• 3/10
• 1/5
• 1/2 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 1/2

There are 5 blue out of 10 total, so the probability is 5/10 = 1/2.

Question 91: What does analyzing an author's tone require you to identify?

• The reader's emotions
• The number of words used
• The author's attitude toward the subject (Correct answer)
• The passage's word count

Correct answer: The author's attitude toward the subject

Tone reflects the author's attitude or feeling about the topic being discussed.

Question 92: How do you calculate the average (mean) of a data set?

• Add all the numbers and divide by the total count. (Correct answer)
• Add the highest and lowest numbers.
• Find the median and divide by two.
• Multiply all the numbers together.

Correct answer: Add all the numbers and divide by the total count.

To calculate the average, or mean, of a data set, you must first add together all the individual numbers or values within that set. Once you have the total sum, you then divide this sum by the total count of numbers in the set. This process yields a single value that represents the central tendency of the data.

Question 93: If f(x) = 2x^2 - 3, what is f(4)?

• 29 (Correct answer)
• 5
• 13
• 61

Correct answer: 29

f(4) = 2(16) - 3 = 32 - 3 = 29.

Question 94: A phone plan costs $30 plus $0.10 per minute. What is the cost for 200 minutes?

• $230
• $40
• $50 (Correct answer)
• $60

Correct answer: $50

$30 + 200 × $0.10 = $30 + $20 = $50.

Question 95: A phone plan costs $40 plus $0.10 per text. What is the cost for 200 texts?

• $50
• $80
• $240
• $60 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $60

$40 + 200($0.10) = $40 + $20 = $60.

Question 96: A student wants to add this sentence to a paragraph about renewable energy advantages: 'Coal has been used as a fuel source for centuries.' Where should it be placed?

• At the end, as a conclusion about energy sources
• In the middle, to explain how renewable energy works
• Nowhere — it is irrelevant to a paragraph focused on renewable energy's advantages (Correct answer)
• At the beginning, as a hook to introduce renewable energy

Correct answer: Nowhere — it is irrelevant to a paragraph focused on renewable energy's advantages

A sentence about coal's history does not support a paragraph about renewable energy's advantages and would distract from its focus.

Question 97: A jacket is marked up 50% to $90. What was the cost before markup?

• $60 (Correct answer)
• $75
• $45
• $70

Correct answer: $60

$90 = 1.5 × cost, so cost = $60.

Question 98: A line is parallel to y = -3x + 1. What is its slope?

• 3
• -1/3
• 1/3
• -3 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: -3

Parallel lines share the same slope, which is -3.

Question 99: Identify the correctly spelled word.

• definatly
• definitly
• definately
• definitely (Correct answer)

Correct answer: definitely

'Definitely' is the standard spelling.

Question 100: What is the value of y when x = 2 in the equation y = 2x + 3?

• y = 6
• y = 5
• y = 4
• y = 7 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: y = 7

To find the value of y when x = 2 in the equation y = 2x + 3, simply substitute the value of x into the equation. This gives y = 2(2) + 3. Performing the multiplication first, y = 4 + 3, which simplifies to y = 7.

Question 101: An author writes, "Imagine your child drinking water laced with lead." Which appeal is being used?

• Ethos
• Kairos
• Logos
• Pathos (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Pathos

Appealing to the reader's emotions, such as fear for a child, is pathos.

Question 102: If y is directly proportional to x and y = 12 when x = 4, what is y when x = 7?

• 19
• 15
• 21 (Correct answer)
• 28

Correct answer: 21

The constant is 3, so y = 3 × 7 = 21.

Question 103: If 2x + 4y = 20, what is x in terms of y?

• x = 10 - 2y (Correct answer)
• x = 20 - 4y
• x = 10 + 2y
• x = 5 - y

Correct answer: x = 10 - 2y

Subtract 4y then divide by 2: x = (20 - 4y)/2 = 10 - 2y.

Question 104: A chart shows a discount of 20% off a $45 item. What is the sale price?

• $9
• $40
• $36 (Correct answer)
• $25

Correct answer: $36

20% of $45 is $9, so the sale price is $45 - $9 = $36.

Question 105: A student writes: 'Climate change affects ecosystems worldwide. Rising temperatures disrupt migration patterns. [BLANK] Marine life is also threatened by ocean acidification.' Which sentence best fills the blank to maintain coherence?

• The study of ecosystems is called ecology.
• Many people enjoy outdoor activities.
• Some animals migrate south during winter.
• Furthermore, melting polar ice reduces habitat for Arctic species. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Furthermore, melting polar ice reduces habitat for Arctic species.

The sentence about melting polar ice directly connects rising temperatures to the next point about marine threats, maintaining logical flow through the paragraph.

Question 106: How can you determine the correlation between two variables from a scatter plot?

• If the points are clustered in one area, the correlation is weak.
• If the points form a straight line, the variables are correlated. (Correct answer)
• If the points form a curved pattern, there is no correlation.
• If the points are scattered randomly, there is no correlation.

Correct answer: If the points form a straight line, the variables are correlated.

The correlation between two variables in a scatter plot is determined by the pattern formed by the data points. If the points generally form a straight line, it indicates a linear correlation: a positive slope suggests a positive correlation, while a negative slope suggests a negative correlation. The closer the points are to forming a perfect straight line, the stronger the correlation.

Question 107: An author begins paragraphs with "First... Second... Finally..." These words primarily serve to:

• Add emotional weight
• Establish credibility
• Provide statistical proof
• Organize and guide the reader through the argument (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Organize and guide the reader through the argument

Sequence transitions structure an argument and help readers follow the logic.

Question 108: Which of these is the BEST evidence to cite in a rhetorical analysis?

• A direct quotation from the passage (Correct answer)
• A general impression of the tone
• A fact from outside the passage
• Your personal opinion on the topic

Correct answer: A direct quotation from the passage

Strong analysis is grounded in specific textual evidence from the passage itself.

Question 109: As used in 'Her *candid* response surprised the interviewer,' the word 'candid' most nearly means:

• Emotionally charged
• Frank and straightforward (Correct answer)
• Rehearsed and polished
• Evasive and unclear

Correct answer: Frank and straightforward

Candid means truthful and straightforward, not hiding or disguising one's true thoughts.

Question 110: What is the area of a circle with a radius of 3 units?

• 12π square units
• 6π square units
• 9π square units (Correct answer)
• 3π square units

Correct answer: 9π square units

The area of a circle is calculated using the formula πr², where 'r' is the radius. For a circle with a radius of 3 units, the area is π * (3 units)². This calculation results in 9π square units, representing the total two-dimensional space enclosed by the circle.

Question 111: What is the meaning of the word 'resilient' as used in the passage?

• Fragile and weak.
• Able to withstand or recover quickly (Correct answer)
• Easily broken or damaged.
• Stubborn and unyielding.

Correct answer: Able to withstand or recover quickly

The word 'resilient' describes the ability of something or someone to bounce back, adapt, or recover from difficult conditions or setbacks. In the context of a passage, it implies strength and flexibility in the face of adversity. This definition contrasts with fragility or weakness, emphasizing an enduring quality.

Question 112: The city council, after a long and often contentious debate, finally passed the new zoning ordinance, ______ it is hoped will encourage more mixed-use development in the downtown area.

• ordinance, whom
• ordinance that
• ordinance, which
• ordinance which (Correct answer)

Correct answer: ordinance which

The correct answer is 'ordinance which'. The clause 'which it is hoped will encourage more mixed-use development' is a non-restrictive clause, meaning it provides additional, non-essential information. Non-restrictive clauses must be set off by a comma. 'Which' is the appropriate relative pronoun to refer to the 'ordinance.' 'Whom' is used for people, and 'that' is typically used for restrictive clauses (essential information) and does not follow a comma.

Question 113: Which sentence is correctly punctuated?

• I can’t go to the store, I have too much homework.
• I can’t go to the store; I have too much, homework.
• I can’t go to the store; I have too much homework. (Correct answer)
• I can’t go to the store I have too much homework.

Correct answer: I can’t go to the store; I have too much homework.

The sentence 'I can’t go to the store; I have too much homework' is correctly punctuated. A semicolon is used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning. Both 'I can’t go to the store' and 'I have too much homework' are complete sentences, and the semicolon appropriately links them without using a coordinating conjunction.

Question 114: What is the function of evidence in a body paragraph?

• To introduce the essay
• To replace the thesis
• To list the author's name
• To support the paragraph's claim (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To support the paragraph's claim

Evidence backs up the claim made in the topic sentence with proof.

Question 115: A study reports a strong positive correlation between two variables. What does this indicate?

• As one increases, the other tends to decrease
• The variables are unrelated
• One variable causes the other
• As one increases, the other tends to increase (Correct answer)

Correct answer: As one increases, the other tends to increase

A positive correlation means the variables tend to increase together.

Question 116: Which choice correctly uses a colon?

• Bring: these supplies a pencil, paper, and an eraser.
• Bring these: supplies a pencil, paper, and an eraser.
• Bring these supplies; a pencil, paper, and an eraser.
• Bring these supplies: a pencil, paper, and an eraser. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Bring these supplies: a pencil, paper, and an eraser.

A colon follows a complete clause to introduce a list.

Question 117: In a Command of Evidence question, what does the phrase 'best supports the answer to the previous question' typically require you to do?

• Summarize the entire passage in one sentence
• Identify the line or quotation in the passage that justifies your prior choice (Correct answer)
• Find a vocabulary word and define it
• Count how many times an idea is repeated

Correct answer: Identify the line or quotation in the passage that justifies your prior choice

Textual evidence questions ask you to locate the specific lines that prove your previous answer.

Question 118: To prepare for the marathon, the runner focused on three key activities: building endurance, to improve speed, and maintaining a healthy diet.

• improving speed, (Correct answer)
• to have improved speed,
• an improvement of speed,
• NO CHANGE

Correct answer: improving speed,

This question tests parallel structure. The original sentence lists three activities, but the structure is inconsistent ('building', 'to improve', 'maintaining'). To make the items parallel, the verb forms should be consistent. The correct answer, 'improving speed,', changes the second item to a gerund ('-ing' form) to match the structure of 'building endurance' and 'maintaining a healthy diet.'

Question 119: Jackson is staying at a hotel where a room costs $99.95 a night plus tax. The room rate is subject to an 8% tax, as well as a one-time untaxed fee of $5.00 imposed by the hotel. Which of the following is Jackson's total price for staying x nights in dollars?

• 1.08(99.95 + 5)x
• (99.5+0.08x)+5
• 1.08(99.95x) + 5 (Correct answer)
• 1.08(99.95x + 5)

Correct answer: 1.08(99.95x) + 5

The room cost per night is $99.95. For 'x' nights, the total room cost before tax is 99.95x. An 8% tax is applied to this room cost, so we multiply 99.95x by 1.08 (representing the original cost plus the 8% tax). The $5.00 hotel fee is a one-time, untaxed charge, so it is added directly to the taxed room cost. Thus, the total price is 1.08(99.95x) + 5.

Question 120: In the sentence 'The scientist's hypothesis was deemed *speculative* by her peers,' what does 'speculative' most nearly mean?

• Based on observation
• Based on assumption rather than proof (Correct answer)
• Experimentally verified
• Widely accepted

Correct answer: Based on assumption rather than proof

Speculative means based on conjecture or assumption rather than on established evidence.

Question 121: Solve for x: x/3 + 4 = 10.

• 21
• 12
• 15
• 18 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 18

Subtract 4 to get x/3 = 6, then multiply by 3 to get x = 18.

Question 122: A car travels 150 miles in 3 hours. At this rate, how far will it travel in 5 hours?

• 300 miles
• 225 miles
• 250 miles (Correct answer)
• 200 miles

Correct answer: 250 miles

The rate is 50 mph, so in 5 hours it travels 50 × 5 = 250 miles.

Question 123: What is the best way to interpret data that shows a steady increase over time?

• Consider the increase as a random event.
• Ignore the increase and focus on the fluctuations.
• Interpret the steady increase as a positive trend or growth. (Correct answer)
• Conclude that the data is incorrect.

Correct answer: Interpret the steady increase as a positive trend or growth.

When data shows a steady increase over time, it indicates a consistent upward movement or progression. This pattern is interpreted as a positive trend or growth, suggesting that the measured variable is increasing in value. Recognizing such trends is crucial for forecasting and making informed decisions based on the data's trajectory.

Question 124: Which sentence uses the semicolon correctly?

• The storm passed, the streets dried.
• The storm passed; the streets soon dried. (Correct answer)
• The storm; passed the streets dried.
• The storm passed; and the streets dried.

Correct answer: The storm passed; the streets soon dried.

A semicolon joins two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.

Question 125: Which sentence is grammatically correct?

• She doesn’t like the cold weather. (Correct answer)
• She don’t likes the cold weather.
• She didn’t like the cold weather.
• She don’t like the cold weather.

Correct answer: She doesn’t like the cold weather.

The sentence 'She doesn’t like the cold weather' is grammatically correct because it uses the proper subject-verb agreement for a third-person singular subject ('She'). The contraction 'doesn’t' (does not) correctly pairs with 'She,' whereas 'don’t' (do not) is used for plural subjects or 'I' and 'you'.

Question 126: Which of the following strategies is best for solving problems involving percentages?

• Subtract the percentage from the given number.
• Convert the percentage to a fraction and divide it by the number.
• Add the percentage to the given number.
• Convert the percentage to a decimal and then multiply it by the given number. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Convert the percentage to a decimal and then multiply it by the given number.

The most effective strategy for solving problems involving percentages is to first convert the percentage into its decimal equivalent. For example, 25% becomes 0.25. Once in decimal form, you can simply multiply this decimal by the given number to find the corresponding part of the whole, making calculations straightforward and accurate.

Question 127: A car travels 150 miles in 3 hours. At the same speed, how far does it go in 5 hours?

• 300 miles
• 250 miles (Correct answer)
• 225 miles
• 200 miles

Correct answer: 250 miles

Speed is 50 mph, so 50 × 5 = 250 miles.

Question 128: If f(x) = x^2 - 4x + 4, for what value of x does f(x) = 0?

• 2 (Correct answer)
• -2
• 4
• 0

Correct answer: 2

The expression factors to (x - 2)^2, so x = 2 is the only solution.

Question 129: A car uses 4 gallons of gas to travel 120 miles. What is its fuel efficiency in miles per gallon?

• 30 mpg (Correct answer)
• 40 mpg
• 36 mpg
• 24 mpg

Correct answer: 30 mpg

120 ÷ 4 = 30 miles per gallon.

Question 130: How do you handle a word problem that involves multiple steps?

• Skip the intermediate steps and go straight to the final answer.
• Multiply all the numbers together.
• Guess the final answer and check if it’s reasonable.
• Work through each step one at a time and keep track of your calculations. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Work through each step one at a time and keep track of your calculations.

When tackling a word problem that requires multiple steps, the best strategy is to approach it systematically, working through each step one at a time. Breaking the problem into smaller, manageable parts helps to prevent errors and confusion. It is also crucial to keep careful track of all intermediate calculations to ensure accuracy in the final answer.

Question 131: In 'The speaker's *compelling* argument convinced many skeptics in the audience,' the word 'compelling' most nearly means:

• Lengthy and technical
• Emotionally manipulative
• Evoking interest or admiration (Correct answer)
• Difficult to understand

Correct answer: Evoking interest or admiration

Compelling means evoking strong interest or conviction; persuasive enough to overcome doubt.

Question 132: What is the ratio of the following function's minimum to maximum value? <br> −2≤𝑥≤3?𝑓(𝑥)=−3𝑥+1

• 7/6
• 8/7
• -7/6
• - 8/7 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: - 8/7

The function f(x) = -3x + 1 is a linear function with a negative slope, meaning it is decreasing over its domain. For the interval -2 ≤ x ≤ 3, the maximum value will occur at the smallest x-value, and the minimum value will occur at the largest x-value. The maximum value is f(-2) = -3(-2) + 1 = 7. The minimum value is f(3) = -3(3) + 1 = -8. The ratio of the minimum to maximum value is -8/7.

Question 133: An author writes, 'Far from being obsolete, the technique remains essential.' This sentence:

• Claims the technique is outdated
• Says nothing about relevance
• Predicts future failure
• Refutes the idea that the technique is outdated (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Refutes the idea that the technique is outdated

'Far from' negates obsolescence, asserting the technique is still essential.

Question 134: The data ___ that customers prefer faster delivery over lower prices. Which verb best fits formal usage?

• suggests very
• suggesting
• suggest (Correct answer)
• is suggesting

Correct answer: suggest

In formal English, "data" is treated as plural and takes "suggest."

Question 135: A paired-passage question asks how Passage 2's author would respond to Passage 1's claim. The best strategy is to:

• Identify Passage 2's stance and apply it to Passage 1's claim (Correct answer)
• Restate Passage 1 verbatim
• Pick the longest answer
• Ignore Passage 1 entirely

Correct answer: Identify Passage 2's stance and apply it to Passage 1's claim

Synthesis questions require applying one author's viewpoint to the other's argument.

Question 136: If 3(x - 2) = 18, what is x?

• 4
• 6
• 8 (Correct answer)
• 12

Correct answer: 8

Divide by 3 to get x - 2 = 6, so x = 8.

Question 137: Which answer choice best supports the claim that a character feels nostalgic?

• She organized her desk efficiently
• She lingered over old photographs, smiling at memories (Correct answer)
• She argued loudly with a coworker
• She quickly checked her watch and left

Correct answer: She lingered over old photographs, smiling at memories

Lingering over photos and recalling memories conveys nostalgia.

Question 138: Which of the following is a key detail that supports the author’s argument?

• Statistical evidence that backs up the author's claims. (Correct answer)
• A vague, unrelated statement.
• A personal story that doesn’t relate to the topic.
• An emotional plea from the author.

Correct answer: Statistical evidence that backs up the author's claims.

Statistical evidence provides objective, quantifiable data that can powerfully support an author's claims and arguments. Unlike emotional pleas or unrelated personal stories, statistics offer concrete, verifiable facts that lend credibility and persuasiveness to the author's position. This type of evidence helps to demonstrate the validity and scope of the argument through empirical data.

Question 139: Which revision corrects the unclear pronoun reference: "When Maria spoke to Lena, she was nervous"?

• When she spoke to her, she was nervous.
• When Maria spoke to Lena, she felt it.
• When Maria spoke to Lena, Maria was nervous. (Correct answer)
• Maria, nervous, spoke to Lena and she.

Correct answer: When Maria spoke to Lena, Maria was nervous.

Replacing the ambiguous "she" with "Maria" clarifies who was nervous.

Question 140: The committee announced ___ decision to postpone the vote until next month. Which choice is correct?

• its'
• their
• its (Correct answer)
• it's

Correct answer: its

"Its" is the possessive pronoun, and a singular collective noun like "committee" takes a singular possessive.

Question 141: Which sentence uses the MOST precise language to describe a scientific measurement?

• The temperature rose by 15 degrees Celsius over 30 minutes during the controlled experiment. (Correct answer)
• The temperature increased significantly during the procedure.
• The temperature increased by quite a lot during the experiment.
• The temperature went up a bunch when we heated it.

Correct answer: The temperature rose by 15 degrees Celsius over 30 minutes during the controlled experiment.

The fourth sentence provides specific, measurable data (15 degrees Celsius, 30 minutes) and clarifies the context (controlled experiment), making it the most precise.

Question 142: Which sentence correctly uses an apostrophe?

• The dogs's bowls were empty.
• The dogs' bowls were empty. (Correct answer)
• The dog's bowls were empty's.
• The dogs bowl's were empty.

Correct answer: The dogs' bowls were empty.

'Dogs'' shows plural possession correctly.

Question 143: A passage from a historical document uses formal, archaic diction. Recognizing this register helps a reader:

• Ignore the main idea
• Skip the passage
• Interpret older word meanings in context (Correct answer)
• Assume the text is fiction

Correct answer: Interpret older word meanings in context

Awareness of period diction guides accurate interpretation of older vocabulary.

Question 144: If 3/4 of a tank holds 30 liters, how many liters does a full tank hold?

• 40 (Correct answer)
• 45
• 37.5
• 22.5

Correct answer: 40

Full tank = 30 ÷ (3/4) = 30 × 4/3 = 40 liters.

Question 145: What is the probability of rolling an even number on a standard six-sided die?

• 1/6
• 1/3
• 1/2 (Correct answer)
• 2/3

Correct answer: 1/2

Three of six outcomes (2, 4, 6) are even, so 3/6 = 1/2.

Question 146: If 3x + 2y = 12 and x = 2, what is y?

• 1
• 3 (Correct answer)
• 4
• 2

Correct answer: 3

6 + 2y = 12, so 2y = 6 and y = 3.

Question 147: A line of best fit on a scatterplot has the equation y = 2x + 5. What does the slope 2 represent?

• The total of all y-values is 2
• y increases by 2 for each 1-unit increase in x (Correct answer)
• x increases by 2 for each unit of y
• y equals 2 when x is 0

Correct answer: y increases by 2 for each 1-unit increase in x

Slope is the change in y per unit change in x, so y rises by 2 for each increase of 1 in x.

Question 148: The cost C of renting a bike is C = 5 + 2h, where h is hours. What does the 2 represent?

• Cost per hour (Correct answer)
• Number of bikes
• Flat starting fee
• Total cost

Correct answer: Cost per hour

The coefficient 2 multiplies hours, so it is the cost added per hour.

Question 149: The mean of four numbers is 15. If three of them are 12, 18, and 10, what is the fourth?

• 22
• 24
• 20 (Correct answer)
• 18

Correct answer: 20

The total must be 60; 60 - 40 = 20.

Question 150: What is the surface area of a cube with edge length 3?

• 27
• 18
• 54 (Correct answer)
• 36

Correct answer: 54

Surface area = 6s² = 6 × 9 = 54.

Question 151: Which sentence correctly uses "who" versus "whom"?

• To who should I address the letter?
• Whom is responsible for this?
• Who did you give the book?
• To whom should I address the letter? (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To whom should I address the letter?

"Whom" is the object of the preposition "to," so it is correct.

Question 152: Which sentence avoids a misplaced modifier?

• On paper plates he served the children sandwiches on.
• He served sandwiches to the children on paper plates.
• He served sandwiches on paper plates to the children. (Correct answer)
• He served on paper plates sandwiches the children.

Correct answer: He served sandwiches on paper plates to the children.

Placing 'on paper plates' near 'sandwiches' clarifies the meaning.

Question 153: If the function h(x) = ax² + bx + c has its vertex at (2, −3) and passes through (0, 5), what is the value of c?

• 5 (Correct answer)
• −3
• −5
• 2

Correct answer: 5

The y-intercept occurs when x = 0, so h(0) = c = 5.

Question 154: Which sentence correctly joins ideas with a conjunctive adverb?

• He was late however the meeting waited.
• He was late; however, the meeting waited. (Correct answer)
• He was late however; the meeting waited.
• He was late, however the meeting waited.

Correct answer: He was late; however, the meeting waited.

A semicolon precedes and a comma follows a conjunctive adverb like 'however.'

Question 155: The word 'superfluous' in 'The editor removed several *superfluous* paragraphs to tighten the article' most nearly means:

• Informative
• Well-written
• Factually inaccurate
• Unnecessary or excessive (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Unnecessary or excessive

Superfluous means more than is needed or wanted; unnecessary or redundant.

Question 156: If 2(x − 3) = 10, what is x?

• 6
• 5
• 8 (Correct answer)
• 7

Correct answer: 8

Divide by 2 to get x − 3 = 5, so x = 8.

Question 157: A graph and passage disagree: the text says sales 'rose steadily' but the graph shows a dip in March. How should you handle an evidence question?

• Always trust the text over the graph
• Base your answer on what the question specifically asks the data or text to show (Correct answer)
• Always trust the graph over the text
• Skip the question entirely

Correct answer: Base your answer on what the question specifically asks the data or text to show

The correct source depends on whether the question targets the data or the text.

Question 158: Which is an example of a rhetorical question in persuasive writing?

• "I believe this is true."
• "Please read the appendix."
• "How long must we wait for justice?" (Correct answer)
• "The data shows a 5% rise."

Correct answer: "How long must we wait for justice?"

A rhetorical question is asked for effect, not to get a literal answer.

Question 159: A graph shows that recycling rates were 30% in City A and 60% in City B. Which claim does this support?

• Recycling rates were declining
• City A recycled more than City B
• City B recycled at twice the rate of City A (Correct answer)
• Both cities had equal recycling rates

Correct answer: City B recycled at twice the rate of City A

Sixty percent is double thirty percent, so City B's rate was twice City A's.

Question 160: What is the y-intercept of the line 2x - 5y = 10?

• 2
• -2 (Correct answer)
• 5
• -5

Correct answer: -2

Set x = 0: -5y = 10, so y = -2.

Question 161: Which type of detail makes the weakest evidence for a factual claim?

• A direct observation from an experiment
• A peer-reviewed statistic
• A documented historical record
• A subjective opinion with no supporting data (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A subjective opinion with no supporting data

An unsupported opinion provides no factual backing for a claim.

Question 162: A line on a scatterplot has slope 2 and passes through (0, 3). What is the predicted y-value when x = 4?

• 14
• 8
• 9
• 11 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 11

Using y = 2x + 3, when x = 4, y = 8 + 3 = 11.

Question 163: A dual passage presents a scientist (Passage 1) and a skeptic (Passage 2). Their relationship is best described as:

• Unrelated topics
• One presenting a view the other critiques (Correct answer)
• Identical viewpoints
• Both agreeing fully

Correct answer: One presenting a view the other critiques

Paired passages often contrast a claim with a critical or opposing response.

Question 164: If 2(x - 4) = 3x + 1, what is the value of x?

• -9 (Correct answer)
• 7
• -7
• 9

Correct answer: -9

Expanding gives 2x - 8 = 3x + 1, so -9 = x.

Question 165: Triangle ABC is similar to triangle DEF. If AB = 4, DE = 12, and BC = 6, what is EF?

• 14
• 18 (Correct answer)
• 24
• 8

Correct answer: 18

The scale factor is 12/4 = 3, so EF = 6 × 3 = 18.

Question 166: An author uses the metaphor "the economy is a sinking ship." This device helps readers by:

• Making an abstract idea vivid and concrete (Correct answer)
• Providing exact statistics
• Citing a credible source
• Posing a rhetorical question

Correct answer: Making an abstract idea vivid and concrete

A metaphor creates a vivid image that makes abstract concepts easier to grasp.

Question 167: A passage's narrator says she 'reluctantly agreed.' Which inference does this best support?

• The narrator refused entirely
• The narrator forgot the agreement
• The narrator was hesitant about the decision (Correct answer)
• The narrator was eager to participate

Correct answer: The narrator was hesitant about the decision

The word 'reluctantly' shows hesitation despite agreeing.

Question 168: Choose the correct verb: 'The list of supplies ___ on the desk.'

• have been
• were
• are
• is (Correct answer)

Correct answer: is

The subject 'list' is singular, so it takes 'is.'

Question 169: As used in 'The judge's *impartial* ruling satisfied both sides of the dispute,' the word 'impartial' most nearly means:

• Not favoring one side over another (Correct answer)
• Biased toward the plaintiff
• Strictly legal
• Unfair

Correct answer: Not favoring one side over another

Impartial means treating all rivals or disputants equally and fairly without bias.

Question 170: If h(x) = x^2 + 2x, what is h(-3)?

• -15
• 15
• -3
• 3 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 3

h(-3) = 9 + (-6) = 3.

Question 171: The distance between points (1, 2) and (4, 6) is what?

• 25
• 5 (Correct answer)
• √7
• 7

Correct answer: 5

Distance = √((4−1)² + (6−2)²) = √(9 + 16) = √25 = 5.

Question 172: The list below shows the number of goals scored by a soccer player in 9 consecutive games: 2, 3, 0, 1, 3, 4, 2, 1, 3 If the player scores 10 goals in the tenth game, which of the following statistical measures of the data will change the most?

• Mean
• Mode
• Median
• Range (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Range

The new data point, 10, is an outlier. Let's analyze the effect on each measure. The original data set is {0, 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4}. The original range is 4 - 0 = 4. The new data set is {0, 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 10}. The new range is 10 - 0 = 10. The change in range is 6. The original mean is 19/9 ≈ 2.11 and the new mean is 29/10 = 2.9, a change of about 0.79. The original median is 2 and the new median is (2+3)/2 = 2.5, a change of 0.5. The mode (3) does not change. The range is affected most significantly by extreme values.

Question 173: A company's revenue grows from $200,000 to $250,000 in one year. What is the percent increase?

• 50%
• 20%
• 12.5%
• 25% (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 25%

The increase is $50,000 over $200,000, which is 50000/200000 = 0.25 = 25%.

Question 174: Walking to school, ___ noticed that the leaves had begun to change color. Which choice avoids a dangling modifier?

• it was clear that
• the morning seemed
• the students (Correct answer)
• there was

Correct answer: the students

The modifier "Walking to school" must describe the people doing the walking, so a person must follow.

Question 175: What is the value of (4 × 10³) + (2 × 10²)?

• 4200 (Correct answer)
• 4020
• 42000
• 6000

Correct answer: 4200

4000 + 200 = 4200.

Question 176: A phone plan costs $20 plus $0.10 per text. Which equation gives the cost C for t texts?

• C = 0.10 + 20t
• C = 20t + 0.10
• C = 20 + 0.10t (Correct answer)
• C = 20 + 10t

Correct answer: C = 20 + 0.10t

The flat $20 is constant and $0.10 multiplies the number of texts t.

Question 177: A paragraph about the benefits of exercise ends with 'Regular physical activity can also improve mental health.' Which sentence would be the BEST conclusion for this paragraph?

• Clearly, incorporating exercise into daily life offers profound benefits for both body and mind. (Correct answer)
• The human body has 206 bones and many muscles.
• Running shoes come in many different styles and colors.
• Swimming is a popular form of exercise around the world.

Correct answer: Clearly, incorporating exercise into daily life offers profound benefits for both body and mind.

The concluding sentence synthesizes the paragraph's key themes of physical and mental benefits and signals closure, making it the most effective ending.

Question 178: What is the purpose of using transitions in an essay?

• To confuse the reader.
• To make the essay longer.
• To introduce new arguments.
• To create a logical flow between ideas. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To create a logical flow between ideas.

Transitions are crucial words, phrases, or sentences that connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs within an essay. Their purpose is to create a logical flow between different parts of the text, signaling relationships such as cause and effect, comparison, or addition. This ensures the writing is coherent, easy to follow, and guides the reader smoothly from one thought to the next.

Question 179: The phrase 'the experiment was anything but conclusive' most nearly means the experiment was:

• Inconclusive (Correct answer)
• Perfectly designed
• Widely replicated
• Definitive and final

Correct answer: Inconclusive

'Anything but' negates 'conclusive,' yielding 'inconclusive.'

Question 180: What is the purpose of the introductory paragraph in an essay?

• To argue for the opposing viewpoint.
• To summarize the points made in the conclusion.
• To present the final thoughts of the writer.
• To provide background information and introduce the main argument. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To provide background information and introduce the main argument.

The introductory paragraph serves as the reader's initial guide into the essay. Its purpose is to provide necessary background information, capture the reader's attention, and most importantly, present the thesis statement, which clearly outlines the main argument or purpose of the entire essay. This sets the stage for the discussion that follows.

Question 181: Pepperoni pizza and Hawaiian pizza are two styles of pizza sold at a certain pizza shop. Although the cost of making each pizza style varies, they are all sold at the same price. The store currently has 32 Hawaiian pizzas that cost $4.25 each to make and 18 pepperoni pizzas that cost $3.75 each to make. To increase profits, the business owner wants to add additional pepperoni pizzas. That day's production budget is $316. Which equation can be used to calculate how many additional pepperoni pizzas, p, are required?

• $4.25(32) + $3.75(18 + p) = $316 (Correct answer)
• $4.25(32) + $3.75(18p) = $316
• $4.25(32) + $3.75(18) + p = $316
• ($4.25 + $3.75)(32 + 18 + p) = $316

Correct answer: $4.25(32) + $3.75(18 + p) = $316

Explanation: <br> There are 32 Hawaiian pizzas and the cost for producing each is $4.25, so the total cost of producing 32 Hawaiian pizzas is $4.25(32). There are 18 pepperoni pizzas and p more will be added, so the total number of pepperoni pizzas is (18 + p). If each of these pepperoni pizzas costs $3.75 to produce, the total cost of producing pepperoni pizzas is $3.75(18 + p). The total cost of producing all pizzas is equal to the sum of producing the Hawaiian pizzas and the pepperoni pizzas. So the equation $4.25(32) + $3.75(32 + p) = 316 is the correct answer.

Question 182: Choose the correct word: "The principal asked the students to remain quiet during the ___."

• assemblies'
• assemblys
• assembly's
• assembly (Correct answer)

Correct answer: assembly

A simple singular noun is needed; no possessive or plural is required here.

Question 183: Read this paragraph: 'Many scientists study climate change. Climate change affects weather patterns. Weather patterns affect agriculture. Agriculture feeds people.' Which revision BEST improves style and flow?

• Scientists study climate change. It affects weather. Weather affects agriculture. Agriculture is important.
• Climate change is studied by scientists. Weather is affected. Agriculture is impacted. People are fed.
• Many scientists study climate change, and climate change affects weather patterns, and weather patterns affect agriculture, and agriculture feeds people.
• Scientists studying climate change have found that shifting weather patterns threaten global agriculture, putting food security at risk for millions. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Scientists studying climate change have found that shifting weather patterns threaten global agriculture, putting food security at risk for millions.

The revision combines choppy sentences into one cohesive sentence with clear causal connections and more sophisticated vocabulary.