PSAT Writing and Language Question 492: Answer and Explanation

Question: 492

Which of the following provides the most effective combination of the underlined sentences?

• A. People will give into the new temptation of cyberspace.
• B. People will not stay away from this ever-present temptation to experience some news from somewhere in cyberspace.
• C. While people are interested in the act of avoiding temptation, this temptation of cyberspace (to find news somewhere) is present ever-more.
• D. Ever-present, the temptation to find out the news from somewhere provides cyberspace with an experience.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) The best way to combine the two sentences hinges on "temptation," as it was used once in each sentence. We can eliminate the need for two sentences by using "temptation" as the figurative fulcrum of the clause, as choice (B) effectively executes. Choice (A) eliminates key information from our initial two sentences. Choice (C) changes the meaning, particularly in its statement of how "people are interested in the act of avoiding temptation." Nothing in the initial two sentences suggests that. Choice (D)'s flaw is most apparent in its change of subject by omitting the word "people."