PSAT Writing and Language Question 479: Answer and Explanation

Question: 479

The author is considering deleting the underlined sentence. Should this sentence be removed?

• A. Yes, because it shifts the essay's focus to the expected lifestyle of a farmer.
• B. Yes, because it repeats information already previously implied in the paragraph.
• C. No, because it provides a fitting conclusion to the paragraph.
• D. No, because it clarifies a claim made previously in the paragraph.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) When deciding whether to delete the underlined sentence, ask two questions: is it relevant, and is the information new? If the answer is "no" to either of those questions, then the sentence should be deleted. In this case, "interested in working hard for a living" is simply a restatement of "if you enjoy . . . doing strenuous physical work." Thus, the information is not new, and the sentence should be deleted.