16Hit1600
Craft and StructureVery hardStructure of a text about an unfinished painting

Craft and Structure practice question

It is easy to say the painting is unfinished; the lower third is bare canvas. It is harder to say whether the painter stopped or chose to stop. Her letters from that year mention the painting twice, both times as complete. Whether that was pride, or a sale in prospect, or the truth, the letters do not say.

Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?

  1. A. It raises a question about the painting, offers evidence that bears on it, and leaves the question open.Correct
  2. B. It proves that the painting was finished.
  3. C. It describes the painting from top to bottom.
  4. D. It argues that the letters are unreliable.

Answer: A. It raises a question about the painting, offers evidence that bears on it, and leaves the question open.

Question, evidence, no answer.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. It proves that the painting was finished.
The ending is undecided.
C. It describes the painting from top to bottom.
Only the bare lower third is mentioned.
D. It argues that the letters are unreliable.
The letters are weighed, not dismissed.

More Craft and Structure questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.