PSAT Writing and Language Question 504: Answer and Explanation

Question: 504

The author wishes to use a word that makes sense given the information that follows in the sentence. Which would best accomplish this goal?

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. trivializing
• C. surrounding
• D. approaching

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) The operative part of the question is "given the information that follows in this sentence"; what follows is, "previous invaders so that the body is ready for them next time." "Approaching" and "surrounding" are logical choices scientifically, but these words fail to take into account that stipulation about connecting with the second part of the sentence. In this case, "remembering" is the best match for an action that could connect with previous information or, more specifically, "previous invaders." To trivialize something is to make light of it, which isn't logical.