Digital PSAT Reading and Writing Practice Question 34: Answer and Explanation

Question: 34

Consider the work that you most enjoy doing. How do you figure out what to do when complications arise? Relationships with family members, friends, and others enrich our lives. What makes those relationships go well? Many forms of recreation contribute to living a good life. But is there any ultimate meaning or purpose to these temporary activities, or even to life itself? Studying philosophy equips us with the skills needed to understand these and many other important questions.

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

• A. Ask questions critical to picking an ideal career
• B. Persuade the reader of the need to study a particular subject
• C. Encourage readers to seek out more recreational activities
• D. Suggest the ultimate answer to life's major questions

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) The last sentence of the text is key in summarizing the main purpose-the author encourages the reader to study philosophy in order to develop the skills needed to understand the important questions of life. This most logically aligns with (B), because the text serves to persuade the reader to study the subject of philosophy. It is not (A), because the focus is not on career choices. It is not (C), because the narrator is encouraging the reader to develop philosophical thinking skills instead of embark on a particular course of recreation. It is not (D), because the narrator emphasizes the importance of asking questions without giving an idea as to what the ultimate answer to those questions will be.