PSAT Reading Question 413: Answer and Explanation

Question: 413

Which option gives the best evidence for the answer to the previous question?

• A. Lines 15–17 ("Witnessing . . . prisoner")
• B. Lines 25–26 ("One of . . . interest")
• C. Lines 44–46 ("the mother . . . there")
• D. Lines 47–48 ("Almayer . . . would")

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) Lines 47–48 reference the beginning of Almayer's journey when he embarked optimistically and "ready to conquer the world." This is in stark contrast to his current internal turmoil that reveals his feelings of hopelessness and disempowerment. Choice (A) actually refers to how he imagines he will feel when he obtains wealth. Choice (B) might be tempting because it is close to the lines referenced in the above question and deals with Almayer's interest in the tree; however, it reveals nothing about his attitude earlier in life. Choice (C) does, in fact, deal with Almayer's early life but with the attitude of his mother rather than of himself.