PSAT Reading Question 400: Answer and Explanation

Question: 400

The sentence in lines 4–7 ("While many . . . patients") primarily serves to

• A. consider objections to the author's views.
• B. describe details of newfound medical processes.
• C. suggest that science is slow to advance.
• D. state the thesis of the passage.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) It's best to approach this question by summing up the lines in your own words. The gist of these lines is that the field of genetic medicine still has a long way to go but is already making a positive difference in the lives of patients. Because this also sums up the passage, it's a good thesis statement, choice (D). It supports the author's view rather than considering objections, making choice (A) incorrect. Choice (B) is incorrect because it certainly doesn't describe any medical processes in detail. Choice (C) may be tempting because these lines say that much of this technology isn't readily available to the public. However, the author is simply stating this rather than passing judgment about the pace of development.