Written Test Analytical Writing 2

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a thesis statement in an analytical essay?

Accepted Answer

To present the writer's main argument and scope

Answer

A thesis statement presents the writer's central claim and signals the scope of the argument to the reader.

Question 2

An argument commits the 'straw man' fallacy when the writer:

Accepted Answer

Misrepresents an opponent's position to make it easier to attack

Answer

The straw man fallacy involves distorting or exaggerating an opponent's argument so it can be more easily refuted.

Question 3

In analytical writing, 'hedging' language (e.g., 'may suggest,' 'tends to') is used to:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge limitations and express appropriate uncertainty

Answer

Hedging conveys intellectual honesty by signaling that a claim is probable or likely rather than absolute.

Question 4

Which organizational structure is most effective when comparing two competing theories?

Accepted Answer

Point-by-point comparison

Answer

Point-by-point comparison alternates between the two theories on each criterion, making similarities and differences immediately clear.

Question 5

A writer claims: 'This policy failed in City A, so it will definitely fail in City B.' This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

A hasty generalization

Answer

Concluding that what happened in one case will definitely happen in another without considering contextual differences is a hasty generalization.

Written Practice Test