PSAT Writing and Language Question 560: Answer and Explanation

Question: 560

The author is considering changing this phrase to “Mr. McCoy’s.” Is this change necessary?

• A. Yes, because it provides a needed clarification.
• B. Yes, because it uses more formal language.
• C. No, because this logically refers to Mr. Hatfield.
• D. No, because this nickname was already established in the essay.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) In the first paragraph, Randolph McCoy is referred to as "Old Ran'l." Continuing to refer to him as "Old Ran'l" avoids the ambiguity that would be caused by referring to him as "Mr. McCoy." In effect, everyone in the passage is either a Hatfield or a McCoy. So writing Mr. McCoy leaves the reader uncertain as to which McCoy is intended. Eliminate choice (A), as this actually is less a clarification than a cause of confusion. Eliminate choice (B), as "old Ran'l" has already been established as acceptable and therefore formalities have already been abandoned. Choice (C)'s statement is simply incorrect.