PSAT/NMSQT Reading: Command of Evidence 3

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 2

When two answer choices both seem to support a claim, how should you decide?

Accepted Answer

Choose the one that supports the claim most directly and specifically

Answer

The most direct and specific support is the strongest evidence.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Temperatures increased over the two-decade period

Answer

A rising trend means temperatures increased across the period.

Question 4

What is the main risk of choosing evidence based on a single matching keyword?

Accepted Answer

The keyword may appear in lines that do not actually prove the claim

Answer

A shared word does not guarantee the lines support the claim's logic.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

The hedging phrase 'may have' showing uncertainty

Answer

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

PSAT/NMSQT Practice Test