PSAT Writing and Language Question 48: Answer and Explanation

Question: 48

Which choice completes the sentence with accurate data based on the graph?

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. at over three times the rate of all occupations in the United States.
• C. but being a health technician has equally positive job prospects.
• D. largely because these positions can be filled by those who have not gone to veterinary school.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

B

Note the question! The question asks for the choice that has accurate data based on the graph, so it's testing consistency. First, understand the labels and the data from the graph. The graph shows the percent change in employment, projected 2010–20 and lists three groups of jobs. Next, read each choice and determine whether it's consistent with the data in the graph. Other professions will grow even more quickly is not consistent because the veterinary technicians have the highest percent change; eliminate (A). Veterinary technicians will grow at over three times the rate of all occupations in the United States is consistent with the data because 52% is greater than 3 × 14% = 42%; keep (B). A health technician has equally positive job prospects is not consistent because the bar for veterinary technicians is at 52% and the bar for health technicians is at 26%; eliminate (C). Those who have not gone to veterinary school are not mentioned on the graph, so eliminate (D). The correct answer is (B).