Question 1
PASSAGE III: The Architecture of Sleep
¹ Sleep is often viewed as a passive state, a time when the body shuts down to conserve energy. In reality, however, sleep is a highly active and complex biological process. While we rest, our brains are engaging in a neurological workout that is essential for physical health and mental clarity. This nightly maintenance is (23) governed by two opposing forces: the sleep drive, which builds up the longer we are awake, and the circadian rhythm, an internal "clock" that regulates our sleep-wake cycle based on light and darkness.
² Once asleep, the brain cycles through four distinct stages. The first three stages are known collectively as non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. During the deepest part of NREM, (24) heart rate slows down, blood pressure drops, and the body repairs tissues. (25) Conversely, the fourth stage is rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. In this phase, brain activity spikes to levels similar to wakefulness. This is the stage where dreaming occurs and (26) memories were consolidated from short-term to long-term storage.
³ One of the most critical functions of sleep is "taking out the trash." For years, scientists wondered how the brain, (27) unlike other organs, cleared out metabolic waste products. In 2013, researchers discovered the "glymphatic system," a macroscopic waste clearance system formed by glial cells. During deep sleep, these cells shrink, increasing the space between neurons by up to 60 percent. This allows cerebrospinal fluid (28) to flow rapid through the brain tissue, flushing out toxic proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases. (32)
⁴ (29) Neglecting this biological need has serious consequences. Sleep deprivation impairs cognitive function, weakens the immune system, and increases the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease. (30) Experts recommend adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Despite these risks, modern society often treats sleep as a luxury rather than a necessity. Artificial lighting and digital screens (31) disrupts the production of melatonin, the hormone that signals to the body that it is time to rest.
⁵ We cannot cheat our biology. Caffeine and sheer willpower can only mask the symptoms of fatigue for so long. Eventually, the "sleep debt" must be repaid. By prioritizing sleep, we are not being lazy; we are investing in our long-term health. The architecture of sleep is built on a foundation of millions of years of evolution, and (33) it remains the most effective medicine we have. (34)
The writer wants to insert a sentence attributing the discovery of the "glymphatic system" to a specific researcher, Dr. Maiken Nedergaard. The most logical paragraph to add this detail would be:
- Paragraph 1
- Paragraph 2
- Paragraph 3
- Paragraph 4
Explanation: This is a paragraph selection question. Choice C (Paragraph 3) is correct—Paragraph 3 is where the glymphatic system is introduced and explained ("In 2013, researchers discovered the 'glymphatic system'..."). Attribution to Dr. Nedergaard would logically go in the same paragraph where the discovery is discussed. Choices A, B, D are paragraphs that don't discuss the glymphatic system. Pro tip: Place specific details in the paragraph that discusses that topic.
Question 2
PASSAGE III: The Wood Wide Web
¹ When walking through a forest, it is easy to view trees as solitary individuals competing for sunlight and water. However, beneath the soil lies a hidden, complex infrastructure that tells a different story. Scientists have discovered that trees are interconnected by a vast subterranean network of fungi. This symbiotic system, known as a mycorrhizal network, allows plants to communicate, share resources, and (21) even protecting one another from danger.
² The network is formed by the microscopic threads of fungi, called mycelium. These threads weave through the soil and wrap around the roots of trees. The relationship is mutually beneficial: the trees provide the fungi with carbon produced through photosynthesis, and the fungi supply the trees with water and (22) vital nutrients extracted from the soil.
³ Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of the mycorrhizal network is its role as a communication highway. If a tree is attacked by aphids, for instance, it will send chemical warning signals through the fungal network. Neighboring trees, receiving these signals, (23) begins to pump defensive chemicals into their own leaves to deter the insects. (24) Furthermore, older "hub trees"—sometimes referred to as "mother trees"—use the network to siphon excess carbon and nitrogen to younger, struggling seedlings growing in the shaded understory.
⁴ (25) Because of logging and clear-cutting, these networks are highly fragile. When mature hub trees are removed from a forest, the entire system suffers. Younger trees are suddenly cut off from their primary nutrient source, and the soil itself becomes less stable. (26) The removal of these trees are a devastating blow to the forest's resilience.
⁵ (27) To put it briefly, ecologists are urging forestry departments to change their practices. By leaving the oldest trees intact and minimizing soil disruption, logging companies can harvest timber without destroying the hidden web that keeps the forest alive. (28) The forest is a cooperative community rather than a battlefield. Understanding this changes how we interact with the natural world. (29) As we learn more about these fungal networks, we must redefine what it means to be a "tree." (30)
Which choice best maintains the logical flow of the paragraph?
- NO CHANGE — Furthermore,
- However,
- Alternatively,
- For example,
Explanation: The correct answer is A (NO CHANGE — Furthermore). This question tests whether the transition word correctly signals the logical relationship between two sentences. The preceding sentence describes one remarkable capability of the mycorrhizal network: trees sending chemical warning signals to alert neighbors under attack. The sentence that follows describes another remarkable capability: hub trees channeling carbon and nitrogen to struggling seedlings. These are two separate examples of the same phenomenon — the network's ability to share information and resources. 'Furthermore' correctly signals addition: 'here is another thing this network does.' G ('However') signals contrast — but there is no contrast here; both sentences describe positive capabilities of the same system. H ('Alternatively') implies a choice between two options, which is not the relationship here. J ('For example') would imply the second sentence is a specific illustration of the first, but these are two distinct capabilities, not a general statement followed by an example. Pro tip: on transition questions, identify the logical relationship first — addition, contrast, cause-effect, or example — then find the transition word that matches.
Question 3
PASSAGE III: The Wood Wide Web
¹ When walking through a forest, it is easy to view trees as solitary individuals competing for sunlight and water. However, beneath the soil lies a hidden, complex infrastructure that tells a different story. Scientists have discovered that trees are interconnected by a vast subterranean network of fungi. This symbiotic system, known as a mycorrhizal network, allows plants to communicate, share resources, and (21) even protecting one another from danger.
² The network is formed by the microscopic threads of fungi, called mycelium. These threads weave through the soil and wrap around the roots of trees. The relationship is mutually beneficial: the trees provide the fungi with carbon produced through photosynthesis, and the fungi supply the trees with water and (22) vital nutrients extracted from the soil.
³ Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of the mycorrhizal network is its role as a communication highway. If a tree is attacked by aphids, for instance, it will send chemical warning signals through the fungal network. Neighboring trees, receiving these signals, (23) begins to pump defensive chemicals into their own leaves to deter the insects. (24) Furthermore, older "hub trees"—sometimes referred to as "mother trees"—use the network to siphon excess carbon and nitrogen to younger, struggling seedlings growing in the shaded understory.
⁴ (25) Because of logging and clear-cutting, these networks are highly fragile. When mature hub trees are removed from a forest, the entire system suffers. Younger trees are suddenly cut off from their primary nutrient source, and the soil itself becomes less stable. (26) The removal of these trees are a devastating blow to the forest's resilience.
⁵ (27) To put it briefly, ecologists are urging forestry departments to change their practices. By leaving the oldest trees intact and minimizing soil disruption, logging companies can harvest timber without destroying the hidden web that keeps the forest alive. (28) The forest is a cooperative community rather than a battlefield. Understanding this changes how we interact with the natural world. (29) As we learn more about these fungal networks, we must redefine what it means to be a "tree." (30)
Which of the following alternatives to the underlined portion would be LEAST acceptable?
- Consequently, ecologists are urging forestry departments
- As a result, ecologists are urging forestry departments
- For this reason, ecologists are urging forestry departments
- On the other hand, ecologists are urging forestry departments
Explanation: The correct answer is D. This is a LEAST acceptable question — three transitions work logically and one fails. The context: Paragraph 4 established that these networks are fragile and that logging destroys them. Paragraph 5 then states that ecologists are urging forestry departments to change their practices. This is a clear cause-and-effect relationship: because the networks are being destroyed, ecologists are calling for change. A ('Consequently'), B ('As a result'), and C ('For this reason') all correctly signal cause-and-effect — they are functionally equivalent here and all acceptable. D ('On the other hand') signals contrast or opposition — as if the ecologists' response is somehow in tension with or contrary to what was just stated. But the ecologists' advocacy is a direct response to the problem described, not a contrasting viewpoint. Using 'On the other hand' would imply the passage is presenting two sides of a debate, when it is presenting a problem and its logical consequence. On LEAST acceptable questions, the wrong answer almost always fails because it signals the wrong logical relationship.
Question 4
PASSAGE III: The Science of Art Restoration
¹ For centuries, the restoration of classic paintings relied on a delicate, and often dangerous, physical touch. Restorers used to rely on harsh (21) chemicals, these solvents could easily strip away original layers of paint along with the dirt. Today, however, the intersection of art and technology has introduced a new era of preservation. The use of modern lasers and X-ray fluorescence (22) are revolutionizing the way museums care for their most prized artifacts.
² One of the most significant breakthroughs in restoration is the use of laser ablation. When a painting has accumulated centuries of soot or discolored varnish, conservators can fire a highly focused laser at the canvas. The laser (23) safely vaporizes the layer of grime. Because the dirt absorbs light at a different frequency than the original pigments, the laser removes the filth without heating or damaging the artwork beneath it. (24) On the other hand, the painting can reveal (25) it's true, original colors for the first time in centuries.
³ (26) Peeling away the darkened varnish, the brilliant blue skies of Renaissance landscapes are suddenly revealed to the restorers. This process allows experts to see the brushstrokes exactly as the artist intended.
⁴ In addition to lasers, restorers now use X-ray fluorescence (XRF) scanners to map the chemical composition of a painting. By analyzing the metallic elements present in the pigments, such as the lead in white paint or the copper in green paint, XRF scanners can look through the top layer of art. (27) This technology has allowed historians to discover hidden sketches and abandoned compositions painted over by the artists themselves.
⁵ It takes years of specialized training to master these technologies. A modern conservator must be a hybrid: part art historian, part chemist, and part technician. They are ultimately (28) responsible of preserving human history. By combining a deep respect for antiquity with the power of modern physics, they ensure that (29) old, antique masterpieces will survive for future generations to study and enjoy. (30)
Which choice provides the most logical transition at this point in the passage?
- NO CHANGE
- As a result,
- However,
- Similarly,
Explanation: The correct answer is B. The preceding sentence explains that the laser removes filth without heating or damaging the artwork. The following sentence states that the painting can then reveal its true colors. This is a cause-and-effect relationship: because the laser safely removes the grime, the original colors are revealed. "As a result" correctly signals this causal connection. A ("On the other hand") signals contrast — but there is no contrast here; the revealed colors are a direct consequence of the successful laser removal. C ("However") also signals contrast incorrectly. D ("Similarly") implies a parallel example is being introduced, which is not the case. Pro tip: Before choosing a transition, label the relationship: is the second idea a contrast, a result, an addition, or an example? Here, the cause is the laser's action and the result is the revealed colors — cause-and-effect demands "as a result" or equivalent.
Question 5
The writer is considering adding a sentence to the paragraph below.
[1] A good interview question invites a story rather than a yes-or-no answer. [2] That’s why career counselors often suggest starting with “Tell me about a time when…”. [3] The prompt encourages applicants to describe actions they took and what they learned. [4] It also gives interviewers a way to compare candidates using similar types of responses.
The writer is considering adding the following sentence after Sentence 1:
“Some interviewers prefer to begin with small talk about the weather.”
Should the writer make this addition?
- Yes, because it provides an example of an open-ended question that invites a story from the applicant.
- Yes, because it introduces a contrasting approach that the paragraph can then explain is less useful.
- No, because it shifts the paragraph away from effective interview questions and toward unrelated conversation topics.
- No, because it contradicts the claim that interviewers want to compare candidates’ responses.
Explanation: This question tests whether adding a sentence maintains paragraph focus and unity. The paragraph discusses effective interview questions, specifically those that prompt storytelling rather than yes/no answers. The proposed addition about weather small talk introduces a completely different type of interview opener that doesn't relate to the paragraph's focus on story-prompting questions. Choice C correctly identifies that this sentence shifts away from the main topic (effective interview questions) toward unrelated conversation topics. The addition doesn't provide an example of the recommended approach or serve as a useful contrast—it simply introduces irrelevant information. For add/delete questions, ensure new sentences directly support or enhance the paragraph's central argument rather than introducing tangential topics.
Question 6
"The Comet Hunter\n\nBorn in Hanover in 1750, Caroline Herschel was not destined for scientific fame. Her mother viewed education as unnecessary for a girl, insisting that Caroline train only in household chores. In 1772, however, [10] Caroline's brother William rescued her from this limited life, bringing her to Bath, England, to join him. William was a musician with a growing passion for astronomy, and it wasn't long before Caroline begun [11] to share his enthusiasm.\n\nCaroline served as William's assistant, a role that required both physical stamina and intellectual precision. She ground and polished the metal mirrors for their telescopes, a task that often left her hands raw. William observed the heavens at the eyepiece, she sat [12] by a window, recording his data and double-checking his calculations. She worked diligently, [13] ensuring that every coordinate was accurate. It was during these long nights that she learned the geography of the night sky.\n\nEncouraged by William, Caroline began using a small Newtonian sweeper telescope to conduct her own observations. On August 1, 1786, she spotted a slow-moving object that wasn't on any star chart. It was a comet; the first [14] of eight she would discover over the next decade. Her success brought her international renown. In 1787, King George III granted her an annual salary of £50. This salary made [15] her the first woman in history to receive official payment for scientific work.\n\nCaroline's contributions extended beyond her comet discoveries. She compiled a massive catalogue of stars and nebulae, updating the work of the astronomer John Flamsteed. [16] This catalogue remained a standard reference for nearly half a century. If Caroline were [17] to see the advanced instruments used by astronomers today, she would marvel at their power, yet her meticulous methods would still be relevant. Caroline Herschel's life proved that curiosity and perseverance could break through the social barriers of the eighteenth century. [18]"
The writer wants to add the following sentence to the essay: In 1828, she was awarded the Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society, an honor no other woman would receive for another 168 years. The sentence would most logically be placed at:
- Point [9] in Paragraph 4.
- The end of Paragraph 2.
- The end of Paragraph 3.
- The beginning of Paragraph 1.
Explanation: This is an organization, unity, and cohesion question testing sentence placement. You can tell because the question presents a new sentence and asks where it "would most logically be placed" among four paragraph locations. You must match the content and theme of the new sentence to the appropriate paragraph. For placement questions, identify the key information and topic of the sentence you're adding, then scan each paragraph to find where that information fits thematically. The sentence should connect to the paragraph's focus, provide relevant support or examples, and fit logically in the sequence of ideas. Don't place it where it would be redundant, off-topic, or disruptive. Choice A (Point [18] in Paragraph 4) is correct because the sentence describes a major late-career honor (1828 Gold Medal), and Paragraph 4 discusses Caroline's contributions and lasting legacy. Placing it at the end of the final paragraph creates a strong conclusion that emphasizes her pioneering status—"an honor no other woman would receive for another 168 years" reinforces the essay's theme about breaking social barriers. This is chronologically appropriate (late in her life) and thematically fitting (legacy and recognition). Choice D (beginning of Paragraph 1) is incorrect because it would introduce a specific achievement before readers know who Caroline Herschel is or what she accomplished. The 1828 date would be confusing when the paragraph is establishing her background from 1750-1772. Choice B (end of Paragraph 2) focuses on her work as William's assistant, not her independent achievements or honors. The Gold Medal recognized her solo work, so it fits better later. Choice C (end of Paragraph 3) discusses her salary from 1787 and being the first woman paid for scientific work. While thematically related, the 1828 Gold Medal is a separate, later achievement that belongs in the conclusion where the essay discusses her lasting impact and legacy. Remember: For placement questions involving chronological information (dates, "later in her life," "eventually"), pay attention to the timeline. Place earlier events in earlier paragraphs and later events in later paragraphs. Pro tip: Concluding achievements and honors often belong at the end of biographical essays because they cap the narrative of the person's accomplishments. If you see a sentence about "the first" or "an honor no one else received," it often belongs in the final paragraph!
Question 7
The following passage is from a student’s blog post about learning to repair bicycles.
[1] When my neighbor offered me a rusty road bike for free, I said yes before I thought about what “repair” would involve. [2] I watched a few tutorials and laid my tools on the porch: wrenches, rags, and a small jar of grease. [3] The first task was removing the rear wheel, which sounded simple until the chain refused to budge. [4] After twenty minutes of tugging, I realized I needed to shift into the smallest gear to release tension. [5] Once I did, the wheel slid out, and I finally felt like I was cooperating with the machine.
The writer is considering adding the following sentence after Sentence [2]: “My porch faces west, so by late afternoon the sunlight made it hard to see the chain.”
Should the writer make this addition?
- No, because it repeats information already stated about the porch and tools without adding any new context.
- Yes, because it introduces a new setting that helps the reader understand where the bike came from and why it was rusty.
- No, because it shifts focus to lighting conditions that are not important to the main sequence of repairing the bike.
- Yes, because it provides a vivid detail that directly explains why the writer struggled with the chain in the next sentences.
Explanation: This question tests the ability to evaluate whether an added sentence enhances unity and cohesion by maintaining relevance to the paragraph's focus. The paragraph narrates a chronological sequence of the writer's bike repair process, starting with acquiring the bike, preparing tools, and encountering mechanical challenges with logical resolutions. The correct choice, C, indicates that the sentence should not be added because it introduces irrelevant details about lighting conditions that divert attention from the core repair steps and mechanical issues. Choices A and B are distractors as they misinterpret the sentence as providing essential explanation or setting, but the struggle with the chain stems from tension, not visibility, and the setting is already established. Choice A incorrectly suggests repetition, whereas the sentence introduces new but off-topic information. In add/delete questions, focus on whether the sentence maintains the paragraph's focus and advances the logical flow without introducing distractions.
Question 8
PASSAGE III: The Architecture of Sleep
¹ Sleep is often viewed as a passive state, a time when the body shuts down to conserve energy. In reality, however, sleep is a highly active and complex biological process. While we rest, our brains are engaging in a neurological workout that is essential for physical health and mental clarity. This nightly maintenance is (23) governed by two opposing forces: the sleep drive, which builds up the longer we are awake, and the circadian rhythm, an internal "clock" that regulates our sleep-wake cycle based on light and darkness.
² Once asleep, the brain cycles through four distinct stages. The first three stages are known collectively as non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. During the deepest part of NREM, (24) heart rate slows down, blood pressure drops, and the body repairs tissues. (25) Conversely, the fourth stage is rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. In this phase, brain activity spikes to levels similar to wakefulness. This is the stage where dreaming occurs and (26) memories were consolidated from short-term to long-term storage.
³ One of the most critical functions of sleep is "taking out the trash." For years, scientists wondered how the brain, (27) unlike other organs, cleared out metabolic waste products. In 2013, researchers discovered the "glymphatic system," a macroscopic waste clearance system formed by glial cells. During deep sleep, these cells shrink, increasing the space between neurons by up to 60 percent. This allows cerebrospinal fluid (28) to flow rapid through the brain tissue, flushing out toxic proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases. (32)
⁴ (29) Neglecting this biological need has serious consequences. Sleep deprivation impairs cognitive function, weakens the immune system, and increases the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease. (30) Experts recommend adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Despite these risks, modern society often treats sleep as a luxury rather than a necessity. Artificial lighting and digital screens (31) disrupts the production of melatonin, the hormone that signals to the body that it is time to rest.
⁵ We cannot cheat our biology. Caffeine and sheer willpower can only mask the symptoms of fatigue for so long. Eventually, the "sleep debt" must be repaid. By prioritizing sleep, we are not being lazy; we are investing in our long-term health. The architecture of sleep is built on a foundation of millions of years of evolution, and (33) it remains the most effective medicine we have. (34)
Which choice provides the most logical transition?
- NO CHANGE
- Therefore,
- For example,
- Finally,
Explanation: This is a transitions question. Choice D (Finally) is correct—signals the last item in a sequence. The paragraph lists four sleep stages (three NREM, then REM), and "Finally, the fourth stage" appropriately introduces the last one. Choice A (Conversely) emphasizes contrast, which works but doesn't signal sequence as clearly. Choice B (Therefore) suggests causation. Choice C (For example) suggests illustration. Pro tip: For numbered sequences, "Finally" or "Lastly" work well for the final item.
Question 9
PASSAGE III: The Architecture of Sleep
¹ Sleep is often viewed as a passive state, a time when the body shuts down to conserve energy. In reality, however, sleep is a highly active and complex biological process. While we rest, our brains are engaging in a neurological workout that is essential for physical health and mental clarity. This nightly maintenance is (23) governed by two opposing forces: the sleep drive, which builds up the longer we are awake, and the circadian rhythm, an internal "clock" that regulates our sleep-wake cycle based on light and darkness.
² Once asleep, the brain cycles through four distinct stages. The first three stages are known collectively as non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. During the deepest part of NREM, (24) heart rate slows down, blood pressure drops, and the body repairs tissues. (25) Conversely, the fourth stage is rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. In this phase, brain activity spikes to levels similar to wakefulness. This is the stage where dreaming occurs and (26) memories were consolidated from short-term to long-term storage.
³ One of the most critical functions of sleep is "taking out the trash." For years, scientists wondered how the brain, (27) unlike other organs, cleared out metabolic waste products. In 2013, researchers discovered the "glymphatic system," a macroscopic waste clearance system formed by glial cells. During deep sleep, these cells shrink, increasing the space between neurons by up to 60 percent. This allows cerebrospinal fluid (28) to flow rapid through the brain tissue, flushing out toxic proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases. (32)
⁴ (29) Neglecting this biological need has serious consequences. Sleep deprivation impairs cognitive function, weakens the immune system, and increases the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease. (30) Experts recommend adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Despite these risks, modern society often treats sleep as a luxury rather than a necessity. Artificial lighting and digital screens (31) disrupts the production of melatonin, the hormone that signals to the body that it is time to rest.
⁵ We cannot cheat our biology. Caffeine and sheer willpower can only mask the symptoms of fatigue for so long. Eventually, the "sleep debt" must be repaid. By prioritizing sleep, we are not being lazy; we are investing in our long-term health. The architecture of sleep is built on a foundation of millions of years of evolution, and (33) it remains the most effective medicine we have. (34)
The writer wants to add the following sentence to Paragraph 3: "Without this nightly wash cycle, these toxins accumulate like trash piling up in a hallway." The best placement for this sentence would be:
- Before Sentence 1.
- After Sentence 2.
- After Sentence 3.
- After Sentence 4.
Explanation: This is a sentence placement question. Choice D (After Sentence 4) is correct—Sentence 4 describes "flushing out toxic proteins," and the new sentence about "Without this nightly wash cycle" refers back to that flushing process. The metaphor elaborates on what happens without the clearance system. Choices A, B, C place it before the flushing mechanism is described. Pro tip: Place sentences after the content they refer to or elaborate upon.
Question 10
The sentence 'The storm caused significant damage in the coastal areas, leading to power outages and flooding.' should be placed:
[1] The weather report had predicted severe conditions. [2] Many residents had been advised to evacuate their homes. [3] Emergency services were on high alert and ready to respond.
Where should the sentence be placed?
- After Sentence [3]
- After Sentence [1]
- After Sentence [2]
- Before Sentence [1]
Explanation: This question tests logical sentence placement in a cause-and-effect sequence. The given sentences establish: weather prediction (1), evacuation advice (2), and emergency preparedness (3). The sentence about storm damage and consequences should come after sentence 2 because it logically follows from the evacuation advice - people were told to evacuate because the storm would cause the damage described. Placing it after sentence 2 creates a clear progression: prediction → precautionary advice → actual consequences → emergency response. The damage description provides the reason why residents were advised to evacuate, making this placement most coherent.