PSAT Writing and Language Question 529: Answer and Explanation

Question: 529

Which of these options provides the most effective introduction to this sentence and paragraph as a whole?

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. Given the imminent catastrophe,
• C. With the utter pointlessness of rampant speculation,
• D. Granted that this is all hypothetical,

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) Choice (B) can be quickly eliminated since the author has made clear that the catastrophe is not "imminent" but, rather, probable given a long enough period of time. The paragraph goes on to address fear and to warn that we must not allow it to dictate our lives. Choices (C) and (D) address the futility of speculation, which does capture part of the paragraph's theme. However, they ultimately fail to make any mention of "fear." Choice (A) is the only option that addresses the concept that fear based on speculation is unproductive.