Written Test Analytical Writing 3

Question 1

Which of the following is an example of an ad hominem fallacy?

Accepted Answer

You can't trust her argument about tax policy because she once filed late taxes.

Answer

Ad hominem attacks the person making the argument rather than the argument itself.

Question 2

What is the primary function of a counterargument paragraph in an analytical essay?

Accepted Answer

To acknowledge opposing views and then refute or qualify them

Answer

Engaging counterarguments demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens the essay by preemptively addressing objections.

Question 3

Which type of evidence is generally considered most authoritative in analytical writing?

Accepted Answer

Peer-reviewed empirical studies

Answer

Peer-reviewed empirical studies have been scrutinized by experts and follow systematic methods, making them the most reliable evidence type.

Question 4

A paragraph that begins with a topic sentence, provides evidence, and ends without linking back to the thesis is missing:

Accepted Answer

A concluding or synthesis sentence

Answer

The final sentence of a body paragraph should connect the evidence back to the essay's central argument.

Question 5

In the context of analytical writing, 'synthesis' means:

Accepted Answer

Combining ideas from multiple sources to form a new insight

Answer

Synthesis weaves multiple sources together to build a coherent argument rather than merely reporting each source in isolation.

Written Practice Test