PSAT Reading Question 401: Answer and Explanation

Question: 401

As used in line 10, "routine" most closely means

• A. typical.
• B. repetitive.
• C. personalized.
• D. simple.

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) For this question, you can come up with your own synonym for the word given the context and then match it to an answer choice. In this case, "routine treatment" may be replaced with something like standard treatment. The closest choice to standard is choice (A), "typical." This makes sense given the context because the author is referring to this treatment in contrast with the cutting-edge genetic treatment. Choice (B) doesn't make sense because we don't know how repetitive the standard treatment is. Choice (C) would be correct in referring to the genetic treatment but not to the broad-spectrum treatment referenced here. Choice (D) is wrong because it's unlikely that the combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation is simple.