Question

Which choice would best express the firm determination of Frick to accomplish his goal? (A) NO CHANGE (B) using force only rarely. (C) any means necessary. (D) focusing energetically.

Short answer

Choose (C) "any means necessary" for firm determination.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Context

To determine which choice best expresses firm determination, analyze each option in terms of strength, commitment, and resolution. The goal is to pick the phrase that most emphatically conveys a strong commitment to achieving the goal.

Analyze Choice A (NO CHANGE)

This implies no change to the original text, suggesting that it might convey firm determination already. However, without the original text, we cannot assess the strength of this choice directly.

Analyze Choice B (Using Force Only Rarely)

This choice suggests a selective and infrequent use of force. It does not express firm determination because it shows restraint and inconsistency in taking actions toward the goal.

Analyze Choice C (Any Means Necessary)

This phrase suggests using whatever methods or resources required to accomplish the goal. It implies a strong and unwavering determination to reach the objective without limitations.

Analyze Choice D (Focusing Energetically)

This choice indicates dedication and energy but lacks the absolute commitment suggested by the willingness to use any means necessary. It shows enthusiasm but not uncompromising determination.

Select the Best Choice

Option C, "any means necessary," clearly stands out as the most determined and resolute choice. It conveys an unyielding commitment to achieving the goal, implying that no obstacles will deter from achieving it.

Key concepts

Context Analysis

In the realm of PSAT critical reading strategies, mastering context analysis can significantly elevate your performance. When we talk about context analysis, we're referring to the skill of thoroughly understanding the milieu in which a sentence or passage exists.

Let's break it down:

• Identify Keywords: Always start by identifying key phrases or words that catch your attention. These often signal the tone and intention of the passage.
• Connect Ideas: Look for connections between sentences or ideas. Do they build on each other? Is there a cause-and-effect relationship?
• Contextual Clues: These can be words or phrases that hint at the author's purpose or stance. Words like "however" or "moreover" signal transitions and contrasts.

Context analysis is your tool to tease apart what is implied rather than stated outright, allowing for a richer understanding of the text.

In the exercise you are given, employing context analysis helps to determine which expression conveys firm determination most effectively. By understanding the nuances of each choice, you can evaluate their differences and support your decision with confidence.

Answer Choice Evaluation

Evaluating answer choices is an art in PSAT critical reading. It involves scrutinizing each option with precision.

Here's how to sharpen your skills:

• Assess Relevance: Determine if the choice is appropriate in the context of the passage. An option irrelevant to the overarching message or theme is typically incorrect.
• Measure Strength: Reflect on the level of commitment or intensity a choice conveys. Does it sound strong and determined, like an unwavering stance?
• Compare Choices: Sometimes, two answers may seem correct. In that case, compare them on strength and precision.

Answer choice evaluation ensures your decision is not just instinctive but logical and evidence-based.

In our exercise example, answer C "any means necessary" stands out. It encapsulates the unbending will to succeed despite obstacles, marking it as the option with the most resolve.

Goal Determination Techniques

Goal determination techniques in the PSAT context involve identifying and understanding the underlying objective of a passage or a question.

Consider these steps:

• Clarify the Objective: Clarify what the goal of the passage or question is. Ask yourself, "What is the author trying to convey?"
• Align Choices with Goals: Ensure that the choice you select aligns directly with the goal. It should neither deviate nor diminish the goal's intensity or clarity.
• Focus on Impact: The choice should create the strongest impact regarding the goal. It’s about understanding not just what is said but its profound effect.

Utilizing goal determination techniques successfully guides you in selecting an answer that truly captures the essence of the passage's or question's aim.

In the example exercise, "any means necessary" was the best choice as it perfectly matches the determined nature of the goal, ensuring the intent is as forceful as possible.