PSAT Writing and Language Question 562: Answer and Explanation

Question: 562

Should the underlined sentence be kept or deleted?

• A. Kept, because it provides a relevant clarification
• B. Kept, because it gives a needed justification
• C. Removed, because it is off topic
• D. Removed, because it shifts the analysis too quickly

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) If the underlined sentence were deleted, most readers would wonder what was exceptional about the ninth person that permitted him to avoid life in prison. Thankfully, our underlined sentence answers this question for us: the ninth wasn't so lucky; in fact, he was probably the least lucky of all. Thus, the sentence must be kept as it "provides a relevant clarification" that removes confusion that might arise otherwise.