PSAT Reading Question 398: Answer and Explanation

Question: 398

The author of Passage 1 suggests that a current advantage of genetically based medical treatments over more conventional treatments is their

• A. greater future potential.
• B. greater precision.
• C. ethical objectivity.
• D. increased popularity.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) The author states in line 16 that individualized (genetically based) treatments are more focused than broad-spectrum (traditional) treatments. Therefore, individualized treatments are more precise, as in choice (B). Furthermore, the author also states in lines 9–12 that although traditional methods do work for many patients, many patients also relapse. This shows that precision is lacking in the traditional methods. Choice (A) is incorrect because the question asks for a current advantage rather than a future one. Choice (C) is incorrect because the ethics of treatment are not discussed in the passage. Choice (D) is wrong because the author states in lines 4–6 that many of these new methods are far from being available to the general public.