GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsExtended Response (Essay)Medium
A student is drafting an argumentative essay and wants to ensure their language is precise and avoids ambiguity. They have written the sentence: 'The report suggests that the problem is due to various factors, which makes it hard to solve.' How can the student best revise this sentence to improve clarity and precision?
- AReplace 'various factors' with specific examples of the factors and clarify why they make the problem hard to solve.
- BAdd more adjectives to describe 'problem' and 'factors'.
- CRemove 'which makes it hard to solve' as it is redundant.
- DChange 'suggests' to 'states' to make the claim stronger.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Replace 'various factors' with specific examples of the factors and clarify why they make the problem hard to solve.
To improve clarity and precision, vague phrases like 'various factors' need to be replaced with specific details. Additionally, explaining the 'why' (why these factors make it hard to solve) provides the necessary context and depth, making the sentence much more informative and less ambiguous.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Adding more adjectives without specifying the factors themselves would likely increase wordiness without improving precision or clarity.
- C. While 'hard to solve' might seem implied by 'various factors,' it's not strictly redundant; however, the core issue is the lack of specificity, not just redundancy.
- D. Changing 'suggests' to 'states' might alter the nuance of the report's claim, but it doesn't address the vagueness of 'various factors' or the lack of explanation.
Precision in Language
Using exact and specific words and phrases to convey meaning, avoiding vagueness, ambiguity, or generalizations.
- Involves choosing the right word, not just any word.
- Replaces vague terms (e.g., 'things,' 'some,' 'many') with specific details.
- Enhances clarity and the credibility of the argument.
Memory trick: Cut the vague, seek the specific, make your meaning crystal clear.