Question

Which choice best establishes the main idea of the paragraph? A) NO CHANGE B) about why Stravinsky composed such a controversial piece of music. C) regarding the role of the police in the uproar. D) surrounding which Russian folk traditions Stravinsky drew his inspiration from.

Short answer

To find the best choice that establishes the main idea of the paragraph, carefully read and analyze the paragraph, identify its main focus, and compare the options A, B, C, and D. Based on the comparison, choose the option that is most consistent with the main idea of the paragraph.

Step-by-step solution

Read the Paragraph

Carefully read and analyze the paragraph. Try to understand its main focus.

Identify the Main Idea

Extract the main idea of the paragraph. This will be what the paragraph is mostly focusing on and what the key points of the text center around.

Analyze Option A

Determine whether option A - "NO CHANGE" - accurately and succinctly describes the main idea of the paragraph.

Analyze Option B

Determine whether option B - "about why Stravinsky composed such a controversial piece of music" - corresponds with the main idea of the paragraph.

Analyze Option C

Determine whether option C - "regarding the role of the police in the uproar" - is consistent with the main idea of the paragraph.

Analyze Option D

Determine whether option D - "surrounding which Russian folk traditions Stravinsky drew his inspiration from" - aligns with the main idea of the paragraph.

Compare the Options

After you've analyzed all the options, compare them with each other and with the main idea of the paragraph. Determine which option is most consistent with the primary focus of the paragraph.

Select the Best Option

Choose the option that best establishes the main idea of the paragraph, considering your analysis in the previous steps.

Key concepts

SAT Main Idea

Grasping the main idea in SAT reading comprehension revolves around pinpointing what the author is primarily trying to convey in the passage or paragraph. This skill forms the backbone of many SAT questions, as understanding the central point provides a framework for interpreting details and answering related questions.

To effectively identify the main idea, start by reading the passage attentively. The main idea is often reflected in the first few sentences, or it might be summarized in the concluding lines. Contextual clues within the text, such as repeated phrases or terms, can also signal the focal point the author is communicating.

In the given exercise, locating the statement that encapsulates this main idea is imperative. Once you've distilled the essence of the text, options A through D should be systematically cross-referenced with your understanding. Eliminate the choices that deviate from this core thought, and lean towards the one that echoes the paragraph's thrust most closely. It is also strategic to remember that the correct answer will often be phrased in a broad, inclusive manner rather than pointing to a specific detail.

SAT Critical Reading

Critical reading on the SAT involves more than just understanding basic plot points or facts presented in a passage. It challenges students to delve deeper into the text, engaging with it analytically and inferentially to determine tone, purpose, and argument.

Approach critical reading by asking yourself why the author chose certain words or structured the passage in a particular way. Look out for contrasts, lists, causality, and other rhetorical strategies used to strengthen the argument or narrative. Be alert to nuances and subtleties, as they often hold the key to comprehending the passage's implications and identifying the author's stance.

Interpret the Implications

Go beyond the literal meaning. If the passage discusses an event, think about its broader implications or the author's perspective on it. Consider what the author is suggesting, not just what they are outright saying.

Understand the Tone and Style

Is the passage persuasive, informative, or narrative? The tone can guide your interpretation and help you answer questions about the author's attitude or the passage's purpose.

SAT Multiple Choice Strategies

When tackling multiple choice questions on the SAT, a clear-cut strategy can dramatically increase your efficiency and accuracy. A methodical approach to these questions reduces the chances of being overwhelmed by the options.

Firstly, always read the question thoroughly before diving into the answers, ensuring you know what's being asked. Then, skim the answer choices, eliminating any that are obviously incorrect. This process of elimination simplifies decision-making by narrowing the field.

After using elimination, focus on understanding why each remaining option could be correct. Reflect on the passage's content, structure, and what it implies. Read the text surrounding specified lines, as the SAT often demands interpretation based on context rather than just picking out details.

Time Management

Keep an eye on your pacing. Don't dwell too long on a single question. If you're unsure, mark it and move on, then return to it after addressing the others.

Guessing Wisely

If forced to guess, choose the most neutral, comprehensive option, as overly specific or extreme choices tend to be incorrect. Also, consider your previous answers; the SAT is designed with varied answer patterns, so having a string of identical answers may warrant a second look.