PSAT Reading Question 578: Answer and Explanation

Question: 578

What is the purpose of lines 14–16 ("Originally . . . globe")?

• A. To define current usage of a phrase
• B. To address a likely reader objection
• C. To use primary source evidence
• D. To explain the root of a concept

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) Lines 14–16 are used to describe what the concept of "logistics" initially meant: it was a war term used to describe the delivery of ammunition. It is thus "explaining the root of a concept," as in choice (D). Choice (A) is flawed in that it defines past, not current, usage of a phrase. There is no likely reader objection, as in choice (B). To what would the reader possibly object? There is no primary source evidence provided, as in choice (C).