16Hit1600
Expression of IdeasEasy–MediumEmphasising a difference in price

Expression of Ideas practice question

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes: - A new paperback copy of the novel costs about $12. - A first edition of the same novel sold at auction for $48,000. - Both contain exactly the same text. - The first edition was printed in 1925.

The student wants to emphasise the difference in price between the two copies. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

  1. A. The same text that costs about $12 in paperback sold as a first edition for $48,000 — four thousand times as much.Correct
  2. B. A new paperback copy of the novel costs about $12.
  3. C. Both copies contain exactly the same text.
  4. D. The first edition sold for less than a new paperback.

Answer: A. The same text that costs about $12 in paperback sold as a first edition for $48,000 — four thousand times as much.

Both prices, with the ratio spelled out — choice A makes the gap vivid.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. A new paperback copy of the novel costs about $12.
One price, nothing to compare.
C. Both copies contain exactly the same text.
A similarity, not a difference in price.
D. The first edition sold for less than a new paperback.
This reverses the notes.

More Expression of Ideas questions

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