SAT Reading & Writing: Choose a transition showing concession (even though, granted, etc.)
16+ practice questions in Praczo
The concept, explained
- 1
Concession transitions admit that something opposing is true before pivoting back to the main claim: even though, although, granted, admittedly, despite, while.
- 2
The pattern is "Yes, X is true — but my main point still holds." Concession differs from pure contrast (however, but) because the opposing point is acknowledged, not just set against.
- 3
Check whether the sentence actually gives ground. If it simply flips direction without accepting the first idea, a contrast transition is better than a concession transition.
- 4
Words like "admittedly" and "granted" usually start a concession clause that is then followed by a pivot word like "but" or "still" in the next clause or sentence.
- 5
If both sides of a sentence pair are equally weighted (no ceding of ground), pick "however"; if one side is being partially accepted before being outweighed, pick a concession word.
- ✗ Confusing concession ("granted, the cost is high") with plain contrast ("however, the cost is high") — concession requires acknowledging some truth to the other side.
- ✗ Using "even though" at the start of a standalone sentence without the main clause that resolves the concession.
- ✗ Stacking "although... however..." in the same sentence, which is redundant and usually wrong on the SAT.
SAT-style practice
Choose the best transition: "The new battery technology is more expensive to manufacture than current designs. ______, its longer lifespan and higher efficiency make it the better long-term investment."
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