16Hit1600
Craft and StructureVery hardFunction of a parenthetical remark

Craft and Structure practice question

The archive's catalogue (compiled, it should be said, by a single librarian over thirty years) lists every letter but describes almost none of them.

Which choice best describes the function of the words in parentheses?

  1. A. They acknowledge the effort behind the catalogue before its limits are criticised.Correct
  2. B. They explain why the letters were written.
  3. C. They claim that the catalogue is complete and detailed.
  4. D. They identify the author of the letters.

Answer: A. They acknowledge the effort behind the catalogue before its limits are criticised.

Credit given, then the shortcoming stated.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. They explain why the letters were written.
Nothing about the letters' content.
C. They claim that the catalogue is complete and detailed.
The main clause says it describes almost none.
D. They identify the author of the letters.
The librarian catalogued the letters, not wrote them.

More Craft and Structure questions

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