SAT Reading & Writing: Choose phrasing that best emphasizes a particular point
25+ practice questions in Praczo
The concept, explained
- 1
Emphasis questions ask which version of a sentence makes a specific element stand out. Identify the element being emphasized in the prompt.
- 2
Sentences often emphasize by position (put the key word at the end), by subordination (make the secondary clause "although..."), or by sentence structure (short, direct sentences emphasize more).
- 3
Eliminate choices that bury the key element in a subordinate clause or list.
- 4
The correct answer usually makes the emphasized point the main clause, not a modifier.
- ✗ Picking the longest, most detailed sentence when the goal is emphasis, not completeness.
- ✗ Choosing a sentence that mentions the element but subordinates it.
SAT-style practice
The writer wants to emphasize the scale of the bird migration. Which choice best accomplishes this goal?
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