Understanding SAT Texts: Effective Approaches to Inference Examples

DSAT digital SAT students study together

What is Inference?

SAT, some questions will provide an unfinished passage that introduces information about an unfamiliar topic. Based on that information, you’ll be asked to select the choice that most logically completes the text.

Understanding Inference

  • An inference is an idea you can get while you’re reading the text
  • An inference is an educated guess about what might happen. Just like an estimate.
  • Inferences help us understand things that aren’t directly stated. It’s like being a detective!
  • Inference is using observation and background to reach a logical conclusion.
  • For example, if you read about someone building a snowman and drinking hot chocolate, you can infer it’s winter.

Strategy

  • Try to find a main idea.
  • If you can piece all the little details into one statement, that may help you find the right choice.

Detailed Strategy

  • First: Focus on the topic and the idea of the text, try to find what is the main focus in the text.
  • Pay attention to the few sentences at the end of the text, that is what you need to follow.
  • You can rewrite the main idea in your own word, and then write what can fill the blank.
  • Then look at the choices that match your prediction.

Tips

  • Make sure you understand the end sentences of the passage as this is often the primary information for the question.
  • The arguments made in inferences passages are often highly specific. Eliminate any choices that stray from or disagree with the points made in the passage.
  • On difficult questions, remove options until you have possible answers, then choose the one that follows from the central idea of the text.

Simple Inference Examples

  • ‘She’s making herself a snack, so she must be hungry. ‘
  • ‘He’s taken his coat, so it must be cold outside. ‘

Introduction Inference Questions

Set 1

  1. María Irene Fornés was a playwright who worked with off-off Broadway theaters. These theaters allowed her to direct her plays exactly as she wanted, even if the plays were unusual to mainstream audiences. This means that Fornés ______

   – A) would have been more famous if her plays were mainstream.

   – B) found off-off Broadway theaters more challenging than Broadway theaters.

   – C) created plays that were too expensive for others to produce.

   – D) enjoyed artistic freedom in off-off Broadway theaters.

  1. Microbes in shallow lakes produce methane, a harmful gas. Ecologist Ralf Aben’s team studied how different plants affect methane levels. They found that tanks with watermilfoil released less methane than tanks with duckweed or algae. This suggests that ______

   – A) shallow lakes are more likely to have algae than watermilfoil.

   – B) shallow lakes release more methane than deep lakes.

   – C) watermilfoil helps reduce methane release.

   – D) having a mix of plants reduces methane in lakes.

  1. Stress can affect the brain. Neuroscientists found that stress caused inflammation in the hippocampus, which is important for memory and learning. This inflammation made it harder for rats to form new memories. This suggests that stress is likely to ______

   – A) improve learning ability.

   – B) make it harder to form new memories.

   – C) help reduce brain inflammation.

   – D) decrease inflammation in the hippocampus.

  1. Georgia Douglas Johnson wrote many plays, but few were performed because she was a Black woman. She hosted weekly gatherings where writers and artists shared and discussed their work. This means that Johnson’s gatherings ______

   – A) allowed her to get feedback on her plays.

   – B) helped her learn about plays in other cities.

   – C) were opportunities for theater companies to perform plays.

   – D) gave her ideas for new plays.

  1. In her article, Anne Garner discusses John Johnson, who collected items like bus tickets that were usually thrown away. Scholars didn’t see the value of his collection until after his death. This shows that Johnson’s collection ______

   – A) was difficult to add to libraries.

   – B) was not valued by scholars at first but later recognized as useful.

   – C) supports arguments that such collections are worthless.

   – D) made it hard for historians to do research without access to it.

  1. Songbirds learn their songs early in life. Each generation changes the songs slightly, creating dialects. Researchers found that young pied flycatchers preferred their local dialects, suggesting that ______

   – A) they prefer local dialects over other birds’ songs.

   – B) they are likely to mate with birds from their local area.

   – C) they get more food if they prefer their own dialect.

   – D) their dialect preference disappears as they mature.

  1. Humans tend to procrastinate because our brains prefer immediate rewards over long-term benefits. Psychologists also found that anxiety can cause procrastination. This suggests that ______

   – A) anxious people prioritize short-term rewards.

   – B) procrastination has multiple causes.

   – C) people without anxiety don’t procrastinate.

   – D) anxiety is caused by our brain’s preference for procrastination.

  1. Jazz songs with “swing” make people want to tap their feet or dance. Physicists found that delaying downbeats and synchronizing offbeats increased the feeling of swing. This suggests that ______

   – A) swing is hard for musicians to create.

   – B) jazz songs with piano have more swing.

   – C) synchronized offbeats give swing.

   – D) timing of beats is crucial for swing.

  1. The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) mostly observes objects outside our solar system but has been used to study solar-system bodies. Scientists suggest a new telescope dedicated to solar-system observations. This implies that the HST ______

   – A) will continue to observe objects outside the solar system.

   – B) won’t be used for solar system observations if a new telescope is made.

   – C) can be modified to study the solar system.

   – D) lacks the sensors needed for solar system studies.

  1. Scientists thought Mars’s crust was mostly basalt from volcanic activity. New studies found high silica concentrations, suggesting other processes formed the crust. This means that Mars’s crust ______

    – A) formed differently from other planets.

    – B) formed from more than just cooling magma.

    – C) can help us understand Earth’s crust formation.

    – D) has reliable silica data from spacecraft.

Explanation

  1. D) enjoyed artistic freedom in off-off Broadway theaters.

   – Fornés could direct her plays exactly as she wanted, showing the freedom provided by off-off Broadway theaters.

  1. C) watermilfoil helps reduce methane release.

   – The finding that tanks with watermilfoil released less methane suggests that this plant helps reduce methane.

  1. B) make it harder to form new memories.

   – The inflammation caused by stress reduced the rats’ ability to form new memories.

  1. A) allowed her to get feedback on her plays.

   – Johnson’s gatherings allowed writers to read and discuss each other’s work, giving her feedback.

  1. B) was not valued by scholars at first but later recognized as useful.

   – Johnson’s collection was initially considered worthless but later recognized as valuable to historians.

  1. B) they are likely to mate with birds from their local area.

   – The preference for local dialects suggests that they will likely reproduce with birds from their local area.

  1. B) procrastination has multiple causes.

   – The observation suggests that procrastination can be caused by both evolutionary and psychological factors.

  1. D) timing of beats is crucial for swing.

   – The study showed that the timing of downbeats and offbeats affects the feeling of swing.

  1. A) will continue to observe objects outside the solar system.

   – The suggestion for a new telescope implies that the HST will focus on observing objects outside the solar system.

  1. B) formed from more than just cooling magma.

    – The presence of high silica concentrations suggests other geological events formed Mars’s crust.

Set 2

  1. Off-off Broadway theaters allowed artists to create experimental productions. María Irene Fornés was one such artist who could direct her plays as she wanted, regardless of audience expectations. This implies that Fornés ______

   – A) found mainstream Broadway more challenging.

   – B) valued creative freedom over mainstream acceptance.

   – C) directed plays that were costly to produce.

   – D) would have been more successful with mainstream plays.

 

  1. Ralf Aben’s team studied how different plants affect methane levels in shallow water. They found that tanks with watermilfoil released less methane than those with duckweed or algae. This indicates that ______

   – A) shallow waters have more algae than watermilfoil.

   – B) watermilfoil helps reduce methane emission.

   – C) shallow waters emit more methane than deep waters.

   – D) a mix of plants reduces methane emissions best.

 

  1. Stress affects the brain by causing inflammation in the hippocampus, impairing memory formation. This suggests that stress likely ______

   – A) enhances learning ability.

   – B) impairs new memory formation.

   – C) helps reduce brain inflammation.

   – D) decreases hippocampal inflammation.

 

  1. Georgia Douglas Johnson hosted gatherings for Black writers and artists, where they discussed each other’s work. This allowed Johnson to ______

   – A) get feedback on her plays.

   – B) learn about plays from other cities.

   – C) see her plays performed by theater companies.

   – D) find new subjects for her plays.

 

  1. Anne Garner discusses John Johnson’s collection of discarded items, initially deemed worthless by scholars but later valued by Oxford University. This shows that Johnson’s collection ______

   – A) was hard to add to libraries.

   – B) was first undervalued but later recognized as useful.

   – C) supports arguments against the value of ephemera.

   – D) made research difficult without it.

 

  1. Young pied flycatchers prefer local dialects, which likely influences their future mating choices. This finding suggests that ______

   – A) they prefer local dialects over other species’ songs.

   – B) they will likely mate with local birds.

   – C) they get more food if they prefer their dialect.

   – D) their dialect preference fades as they mature.

 

  1. Procrastination may be due to our brains prioritizing immediate rewards and anxiety about task performance. This suggests that ______

   – A) anxious people prefer short-term rewards.

   – B) procrastination has multiple causes.

   – C) non-anxious people don’t procrastinate.

   – D) anxiety is caused by our brain’s preference for procrastination.

 

  1. Jazz songs with “swing” make people want to move. Physicists found that delaying downbeats and synchronizing offbeats increased swing. This suggests that ______

   – A) swing is hard for musicians to create.

   – B) piano jazz songs have more swing.

   – C) synchronized offbeats give swing.

   – D) timing of beats is crucial for swing.

 

  1. The Hubble Space Telescope mostly observes objects outside our solar system but also studies solar-system bodies. Scientists suggest a new telescope dedicated to solar-system observations. This implies that the HST ______

   – A) will continue to observe distant objects.

   – B) won’t observe solar-system objects if a new telescope is made.

   – C) can be modified for solar-system studies.

   – D) lacks sensors for solar-system studies.

 

  1. Scientists thought Mars’s crust was mostly basalt from volcanic activity. New studies found high silica concentrations, suggesting other processes formed the crust. This indicates that Mars’s crust ______

    – A) formed differently from other planets.

    – B) formed from more than just cooling magma.

    – C) can help us understand Earth’s crust formation.

    – D) has reliable silica data from spacecraft.

Explanation

  1. B) valued creative freedom over mainstream acceptance.

   – Fornés directed plays as she wanted, showing she prioritized artistic freedom over mainstream success.

  1. B) watermilfoil helps reduce methane emission.

   – Tanks with watermilfoil released less methane, suggesting this plant reduces methane emission.

  1. B) impairs new memory formation.

   – The inflammation caused by stress reduced the rats’ ability to form new memories.

  1. A) get feedback on her plays.

   – Johnson’s gatherings allowed writers to read and discuss each other’s work, giving her feedback.

  1. B) was first undervalued but later recognized as useful.

   – Johnson’s collection was initially considered worthless but later recognized as valuable to historians.

  1. B) they will likely mate with local birds.

   – The preference for local dialects suggests that they will likely reproduce with birds from their local area.

  1. B) procrastination has multiple causes.

   – The observation suggests that procrastination can be caused by both evolutionary and psychological factors.

  1. D) timing of beats is crucial for swing.

   – The study showed that the timing of downbeats and offbeats affects the feeling of swing.

  1. A) will continue to observe distant objects.

   – The suggestion for a new telescope implies that the HST will focus on observing objects outside the solar system.

  1. B) formed from more than just cooling magma.

    – The presence of high silica concentrations suggests other geological events formed Mars’s crust.

Set 3

  1. Off-off Broadway theaters gave artists like María Irene Fornés the freedom to direct their plays in unconventional ways, distinct from mainstream Broadway productions. This implies that Fornés ______

   – A) found mainstream Broadway more challenging.

   – B) thrived in an environment that valued experimentation.

   – C) directed plays that were costly to produce.

   – D) would have been more successful with mainstream plays.

 

  1. Ralf Aben’s team studied how different aquatic plants affect methane levels. They discovered that tanks with watermilfoil released less methane than those with duckweed or algae, indicating that ______

   – A) watermilfoil helps reduce methane emission.

   – B) shallow waters have more algae than watermilfoil.

   – C) shallow waters emit more methane than deep waters.

   – D) a mix of plants reduces methane emissions best.

 

  1. Stress has been shown to cause inflammation in the hippocampus, impairing the ability to form new memories. This suggests that stress likely ______

   – A) enhances learning ability.

   – B) impairs new memory formation.

   – C) helps reduce brain inflammation.

   – D) decreases hippocampal inflammation.

 

  1. Georgia Douglas Johnson hosted gatherings where Black writers and artists discussed each other’s work. This allowed Johnson to ______

   – A) get feedback on her plays.

   – B) learn about plays from other cities.

   – C) see her plays performed by theater companies.

   – D) find new subjects for her plays.

 

  1. Anne Garner discusses John Johnson’s collection of ephemera, initially deemed worthless by scholars but later valued by Oxford University. This demonstrates that Johnson’s collection ______

   – A) was hard to add to libraries.

   – B) was first undervalued but later recognized as useful.

   – C) supports arguments against the value of ephemera.

   – D) made research difficult without it.

 

  1. Pied flycatcher nestlings showed a preference for their local dialects, which likely influences their future mating choices. This finding suggests that ______

   – A) they prefer local dialects over other species’ songs.

   – B) they will likely mate with local birds.

   – C) they get more food if they prefer their dialect.

   – D) their dialect preference fades as they mature.

 

  1. Procrastination may stem from our brains’ preference for immediate rewards and anxiety about task performance. This suggests that ______

   – A) anxious people prioritize short-term rewards.

   – B) procrastination has multiple causes.

   – C) non-anxious people don’t procrastinate.

   – D) anxiety is caused by our brain’s preference for procrastination.

 

  1. Jazz songs with “swing” make people want to move. Physicists found that delaying downbeats and synchronizing offbeats increased the feeling of swing. This suggests that ______

   – A) swing is hard for musicians to create.

   – B) piano jazz songs have more swing.

   – C) synchronized offbeats give swing.

   – D) timing of beats is crucial for swing.

 

  1. The Hubble Space Telescope primarily observes objects outside our solar system but also studies solar-system bodies. Scientists suggest a new telescope dedicated to solar-system observations. This implies that the HST ______

   – A) will continue to observe distant objects.

   – B) won’t observe solar-system objects if a new telescope is made.

   – C) can be modified for solar-system studies.

   – D) lacks sensors for solar-system studies.

 

  1. Scientists thought Mars’s crust was mostly basalt from volcanic activity. New studies found high silica concentrations, suggesting other processes formed the crust. This means that Mars’s crust ______

    – A) formed differently from other planets.

    – B) formed from more than just cooling magma.

    – C) can help us understand Earth’s crust formation.

    – D) has reliable silica data from spacecraft.

Explanation

  1. B) thrived in an environment that valued experimentation.

   – Fornés could direct plays as she wanted, indicating she thrived in a setting that valued experimental work.

  1. A) watermilfoil helps reduce methane emission.

   – Tanks with watermilfoil released less methane, indicating this plant helps reduce methane emission.

  1. B) impairs new memory formation.

   – The inflammation caused by stress reduced the rats’ ability to form new memories.

  1. A) get feedback on her plays.

   – Johnson’s gatherings allowed writers to read and discuss each other’s work, giving her feedback.

  1. B) was first undervalued but later recognized as useful.

   – Johnson’s collection was initially considered worthless but later recognized as valuable to historians.

  1. B) they will likely mate with local birds.

   – The preference for local dialects suggests that they will likely reproduce with birds from their local area.

  1. B) procrastination has multiple causes.

   – The observation suggests that procrastination can be caused by both evolutionary and psychological factors.

  1. D) timing of beats is crucial for swing.

   – The study showed that the timing of downbeats and offbeats affects the feeling of swing.

  1. A) will continue to observe distant objects.

   – The suggestion for a new telescope implies that the HST will focus on observing objects outside the solar system.

  1. B) formed from more than just cooling magma.

    – The presence of high silica concentrations suggests other geological events formed Mars’s crust.

Practice Questions for Inference

Level 1

Set A

1. Psychologists have observed that people who engage in regular physical exercise tend to report higher levels of happiness and lower levels of stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. As a result, many mental health professionals recommend exercise as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for managing stress and anxiety. This indicates that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. physical exercise is the most effective way to treat all mental health conditions.
  • – B. regular physical exercise can contribute to better mental health.
  • – C. endorphins are the only factor that influences a person’s happiness and stress levels.
  • – D. mental health professionals should focus solely on exercise in their treatment plans.

2. Biologists have discovered that some species of frogs can regenerate lost limbs, a capability that could offer insights into human regenerative medicine. The researchers found that a specific protein, called nAG, plays a crucial role in the regrowth process. By studying how nAG functions, scientists hope to develop new treatments for injuries and diseases that involve tissue damage. This research suggests that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. frogs’ regenerative abilities are unique among all animal species.
  • – B. the nAG protein could potentially be used to help humans regenerate damaged tissues.
  • – C. human medicine has already benefited significantly from studying frog regeneration.
  • – D. limb regeneration in frogs is more complex than previously thought.

3. Economists have long debated the merits of a shorter workweek. Recent studies show that reducing the standard workweek from 40 to 30 hours can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction among employees. Additionally, companies that have adopted a shorter workweek report lower turnover rates and higher employee morale. These findings imply that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. a shorter workweek is likely to become the new standard in the near future.
  • – B. employees are more productive when they work fewer hours per week.
  • – C. companies with a shorter workweek are more profitable than those with a standard workweek.
  • – D. job satisfaction is the most important factor in employee retention.

4. A study on the dietary habits of teenagers found that those who eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables tend to have better academic performance than those who do not. Researchers believe that the nutrients in healthy foods contribute to improved brain function and concentration. This suggests that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. schools should require students to eat a certain amount of fruits and vegetables each day.
  • – B. students who eat healthy foods are likely to excel in all areas of life.
  • – C. a healthy diet can positively impact a student’s academic success.
  • – D. teenagers’ dietary habits are the primary determinant of their academic performance.

5. Environmental scientists have found that planting trees in urban areas can significantly reduce air pollution and improve air quality. Trees absorb pollutants like carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making the air cleaner and healthier to breathe. Additionally, urban trees provide shade, reduce temperatures, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of city landscapes. These benefits suggest that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. urban areas should prioritize tree planting to combat air pollution.
  • – B. planting trees is the only effective method to reduce urban air pollution.
  • – C. trees are more important than other green spaces in urban areas.
  • – D. air quality in cities is solely dependent on the number of trees planted.

Set B - 1

1. Recent studies in ornithology have revealed unexpected behaviors in urban bird populations. Researchers at City University observed that pigeons in metropolitan areas have adapted their foraging habits to coincide with human lunch hours. Dr. Emily Chen, lead scientist on the project, noted that pigeons in busy city centers were 40% more likely to appear in popular lunch spots between 12 PM and 2 PM compared to other times of day. This behavioral shift suggests that _______

  • A) pigeons have developed a preference for human food over their natural diet.
  • B) urban birds are evolving to become nocturnal creatures.
  • C) pigeons are capable of adapting their behavior to take advantage of human patterns.
  • D) all urban wildlife follows human schedules for finding food.

2. The field of sustainable agriculture has made significant progress in developing alternative farming methods. One promising approach is vertical farming, which involves growing crops in stacked layers, often in urban environments. A recent study by the Green Future Institute found that vertical farms use 95% less water than traditional farming methods while producing up to 10 times more crops per square foot. However, the initial setup costs for vertical farms are considerably higher. These findings imply that _______

  • A) vertical farming is too expensive to be a viable option for most farmers.
  • B) traditional farming methods are no longer necessary in urban areas.
  • C) vertical farming could potentially address some challenges of traditional agriculture, but has its own limitations.
  • D) all future farming will take place in urban vertical farms.

3. Psychologists studying childhood development have long been interested in the acquisition of language. Dr. Maria Lopez conducted a study examining how exposure to multiple languages affects cognitive development in young children. Her team followed 200 children aged 3-5 for two years, half of whom were raised in bilingual households. The results showed that bilingual children consistently outperformed their monolingual peers in tasks requiring cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills. This research suggests that _______

  • A) bilingual children are inherently more intelligent than monolingual children.
  • B) exposure to multiple languages at a young age may enhance certain cognitive abilities.
  • C) all children should be raised in strictly bilingual environments.
  • D) cognitive flexibility is solely determined by language exposure in early childhood.

4. Marine biologists have been tracking the migration patterns of humpback whales for decades. A recent study led by Dr. James Chen used advanced satellite technology to monitor a pod of whales during their annual migration from Alaska to Hawaii. Surprisingly, the team discovered that the whales took a previously unknown detour, adding nearly 1,000 miles to their journey. This detour corresponded with an area rich in krill, the whales’ primary food source. This finding indicates that _______

  • A) humpback whales are poor navigators and frequently get lost during migration.
  • B) climate change has forced whales to completely alter their traditional migration routes.
  • C) whale migration patterns may be more flexible than previously thought, adapting to food availability.
  • D) satellite technology is unreliable for tracking marine animal movements.

5. Archaeologists studying ancient civilizations have long been intrigued by the Mayan calendar system. Recent excavations at a site in Guatemala uncovered a series of well-preserved murals depicting calendar calculations. Dr. Sofia Ramirez, leading the excavation, noted that these murals showed a previously unknown method for calculating leap years, which allowed for greater accuracy in long-term predictions. This discovery suggests that _______

  • A) the Maya were more technologically advanced than modern societies in all areas.
  • B) ancient civilizations had no understanding of complex mathematical concepts.
  • C) Mayan astronomical and mathematical knowledge may have been more sophisticated than previously recognized.
  • D) all ancient calendar systems were equally accurate in predicting celestial events.

Set B - 2

1. Recent studies in marine biology have uncovered surprising adaptations in deep-sea creatures living near hydrothermal vents. These organisms thrive in extreme conditions, withstanding high pressure, total darkness, and temperatures that can exceed 300°C. Of particular interest is the Pompeii worm (Alvinella pompejana), which can tolerate the highest known temperature of any animal on Earth. The worm’s resilience is partly attributed to a symbiotic relationship with bacteria that form a protective fleece on its back. This remarkable adaptation suggests that _______

  • A) deep-sea creatures are impervious to all forms of environmental stress.
  • B) symbiotic relationships are uncommon in extreme environments.
  • C) evolution can produce extraordinary solutions to seemingly insurmountable challenges.
  • D) all deep-sea organisms rely on bacterial symbionts for survival.

2. The field of chronobiology has made significant strides in understanding the impact of circadian rhythms on human health. Recent research has shown that disruptions to these internal biological clocks can have far-reaching consequences, from sleep disorders to increased risk of certain cancers. A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Elena Mikhailov at the University of Chronos examined the effects of prolonged exposure to artificial light at night on shift workers. The results indicated a 37% higher incidence of metabolic disorders among participants compared to those with regular daytime schedules. These findings imply that _______

  • A) all artificial light exposure is equally harmful to human health.
  • B) shift work should be immediately banned in all industries.
  • C) the timing of light exposure may play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being.
  • D) metabolic disorders are solely caused by disruptions to circadian rhythms.

3. Linguists studying the evolution of language have long debated the origins of grammatical structures. A recent computational analysis of over 600 languages by Dr. Amelia Chen and her team at the Global Language Institute has shed new light on this topic. By applying machine learning algorithms to vast linguistic datasets, they identified certain grammatical patterns that appear to be universal across unrelated language families. Surprisingly, these patterns were found to correlate with specific cognitive processes in the human brain. This correlation suggests that _______

  • A) all languages originated from a single ancestral tongue.
  • B) grammatical structures may have evolved in tandem with human cognitive abilities.
  • C) machine learning is infallible in linguistic analysis.
  • D) cognitive processes are identical across all human populations.

4. The emerging field of quantum archaeology aims to use advanced technologies to uncover historical information previously thought to be lost forever. Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, a pioneer in this field, has developed a method using quantum sensors to detect minute traces of organic material in ancient artifacts. In a recent experiment, his team analyzed a collection of seemingly blank papyri from the Library of Alexandria. To their astonishment, they were able to recover fragments of text that had been invisible for over two millennia. This breakthrough implies that _______

  • A) all historical mysteries can now be easily solved with quantum technology.
  • B) traditional archaeological methods are no longer relevant.
  • C) previously inaccessible historical information may now be within reach of researchers.
  • D) the Library of Alexandria contained only blank papyri.

5. Researchers in the field of epigenetics have made significant progress in understanding how environmental factors can influence gene expression without altering DNA sequences. A longitudinal study conducted by Dr. Sophia Patel at the Institute for Genetic Research followed three generations of families living in areas with varying levels of air pollution. The study found that grandchildren of individuals exposed to high levels of pollutants showed altered gene expression patterns related to respiratory function, even when they themselves lived in low-pollution areas. These results suggest that _______

  • A) air pollution has no long-term effects on human health.
  • B) genetic mutations are the sole cause of respiratory problems.
  • C) environmental exposures may have transgenerational epigenetic effects.
  • D) epigenetic changes are always beneficial for human adaptation.

Level 2

1. The advent of 3D printing technology has revolutionized various fields, including medicine. Researchers have successfully used 3D printers to create customized prosthetics and implants tailored to individual patients. This technology not only reduces the time required to produce these medical devices but also significantly lowers their cost. As a result, 3D printing in medicine ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. offers a promising solution to increase accessibility to affordable, personalized medical devices.
  • – B. is expected to completely replace traditional methods of producing medical devices.
  • – C. faces numerous regulatory challenges that prevent its widespread adoption.
  • – D. is primarily beneficial for cosmetic rather than functional medical applications.

2. In recent years, urban planners have increasingly focused on creating green spaces within cities to improve residents’ quality of life. Studies have shown that access to parks and gardens can reduce stress, promote physical activity, and enhance social cohesion. These findings suggest that investing in urban green spaces ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. is a luxury that only wealthy cities can afford.
  • – B. may have significant health and social benefits for urban populations.
  • – C. is unnecessary given the availability of indoor recreational facilities.
  • – D. primarily benefits children and the elderly rather than the general population.

3. Marine biologists have observed a decline in the population of certain fish species due to overfishing. In response, many countries have implemented fishing quotas and established marine protected areas to help replenish fish stocks. Initial results from these measures have been promising, with some fish populations beginning to recover. This indicates that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. overfishing will no longer be a concern in the near future.
  • – B. marine protected areas are more effective than fishing quotas in preserving fish species.
  • – C. the decline in fish populations is primarily due to climate change rather than overfishing.
  • – D. fishing quotas and marine protected areas can effectively contribute to the restoration of fish populations.

4. In her research on workplace productivity, psychologist Dr. Laura Sanders found that employees who take regular breaks are more productive than those who do not. She suggests that short breaks help to refresh the mind and prevent burnout. Additionally, incorporating physical activity during breaks can further enhance productivity by improving overall health. Therefore, Dr. Sanders recommends that companies ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. allow employees to take breaks only when they feel tired.
  • – B. encourage regular breaks and physical activity to boost employee productivity.
  • – C. limit the number of breaks employees can take to ensure continuous work.
  • – D. focus more on mental health support than on physical activity during breaks.

5. A 2023 study investigated the impact of remote work on employee satisfaction and productivity. The researchers found that while remote work offers flexibility and can reduce commuting time, it also poses challenges such as isolation and difficulty in maintaining work-life balance. Despite these challenges, many employees reported higher job satisfaction and productivity when working remotely. These findings imply that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. remote work is universally preferred by all employees.
  • – B. remote work should be avoided to prevent feelings of isolation.
  • – C. the benefits of remote work generally outweigh its challenges.
  • – D. maintaining work-life balance is easier with traditional office work.

Level 3

1. A 2022 study on renewable energy adoption in rural communities found that while solar and wind energy are gaining popularity, there are significant barriers to their widespread implementation. The researchers identified high initial costs, lack of infrastructure, and limited technical expertise as major obstacles. However, they also noted that community-led initiatives and government incentives have been successful in some areas. These findings imply that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. renewable energy will soon replace all traditional energy sources in rural areas.
  • – B. government incentives alone are sufficient to promote renewable energy adoption.
  • – C. rural communities are resistant to adopting renewable energy.
  • – D. overcoming the barriers to renewable energy requires a multifaceted approach.

2. A recent analysis by marine biologists at the University of Hawaii examined the impact of climate change on coral reefs. The researchers found that rising sea temperatures are causing widespread coral bleaching, which weakens the reefs and makes them more susceptible to disease. Despite this, some coral species have shown remarkable resilience, adapting to warmer waters. These observations indicate that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. all coral species will eventually adapt to climate change.
  • – B. coral reefs are doomed to disappear in the near future.
  • – C. targeted conservation efforts could help preserve certain coral species.
  • – D. the adaptation of some coral species is a rare exception.

3. In her book “The Psychology of Consumer Behavior,” Dr. Elena Martinez discusses the factors that influence purchasing decisions. She explains that while traditional economic theories emphasize rational choice, many purchases are driven by emotions and subconscious impulses. Martinez argues that effective marketing taps into these psychological triggers, creating a sense of urgency or emotional connection with the product. This perspective suggests that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. consumers make most of their purchasing decisions based on thorough research.
  • – B. emotional and psychological factors play a crucial role in consumer behavior.
  • – C. marketing strategies have little impact on consumer choices.
  • – D. rational decision-making is the primary driver of all purchases.

4. In his 2019 study on urban agriculture, Dr. James Chen explores the benefits and challenges of growing food in cities. He notes that urban agriculture can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and provide fresh produce to city dwellers. However, Chen also points out that urban farms face obstacles such as limited space, soil contamination, and regulatory hurdles. These findings suggest that urban agriculture ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. offers environmental and nutritional benefits, though it must overcome significant challenges.
  • – B. is a viable solution for completely eliminating food deserts in cities.
  • – C. should be prioritized over rural farming to ensure sustainability.
  • – D. is more effective in small towns than in large metropolitan areas.

5. In a comprehensive review of early childhood education programs, Dr. Linda Foster highlights the long-term benefits of high-quality preschool education. She notes that children who attend such programs are more likely to succeed academically and socially later in life. Foster also emphasizes the importance of well-trained teachers and a stimulating learning environment in achieving these outcomes. This review suggests that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. all early childhood education programs are equally effective.
  • – B. the quality of preschool education is a key determinant of future success.
  • – C. academic success is solely dependent on early childhood education.
  • – D. social skills development is unrelated to early childhood education quality.

Level 4

Set A

1. Astrophysicists have long debated the existence of dark matter, an invisible substance that is thought to make up about 27% of the universe. Recent observations of gravitational lensing—where light from distant galaxies is bent by massive objects—have provided some of the most compelling evidence for dark matter’s existence. However, a new study by Dr. Jorge Morales suggests that alternative explanations, such as modifications to our understanding of gravity, could also account for these observations. Dr. Morales’ study indicates that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. dark matter is no longer a necessary component of current cosmological models.
  • – B. the evidence for dark matter should be re-evaluated in light of new gravitational theories.
  • – C. gravitational lensing is not as reliable an indicator of dark matter as previously thought.
  • – D. our current understanding of gravity is likely incorrect.

2. Recent studies on the genetic diversity of cheetahs have shown that their genetic variability is surprisingly low. This lack of diversity makes cheetahs more susceptible to diseases and reduces their ability to adapt to environmental changes. Conservation biologist Dr. Anita Sharma suggests that conservation efforts should focus not only on protecting cheetah populations but also on increasing their genetic diversity through selective breeding programs. Dr. Sharma’s recommendation implies that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. current conservation efforts are insufficient to ensure the long-term survival of cheetahs.
  • – B. increasing the genetic diversity of cheetahs will likely involve introducing new predators to their habitat.
  • – C. selective breeding programs have already been successful in other endangered species.
  • – D. genetic diversity in cheetahs can be increased without human intervention.

3. Economist Dr. Rachel Kim examined the effects of universal basic income (UBI) on employment rates. Her research focused on a pilot program in a small city where residents received a monthly stipend with no strings attached. Dr. Kim found that while some participants used the money to take time off work, others invested it in education or small businesses, leading to an overall increase in employment and economic activity. These findings suggest that UBI ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. may lead to a decrease in the workforce if implemented on a larger scale.
  • – B. could stimulate economic growth and increase employment when applied more broadly.
  • – C. primarily benefits those who are already employed rather than the unemployed.
  • – D. discourages people from seeking traditional employment opportunities.

4. In her study on the impact of urban noise pollution on bird populations, ornithologist Dr. Linda Evans found that birds living in noisy urban environments tend to have shorter lifespans and lower reproductive success than those in quieter areas. She also discovered that some species have adapted by altering their song frequencies to communicate more effectively over the noise. Dr. Evans’ findings imply that ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. noise pollution is the primary threat to bird populations in urban areas.
  • – B. all bird species will eventually adapt to urban noise by changing their song frequencies.
  • – C. efforts to reduce urban noise pollution could significantly improve the survival rates of urban bird populations.
  • – D. bird populations in urban areas are declining due to factors other than noise pollution.

5. Philosopher Dr. Michael Chen explores the concept of “moral luck,” where the morality of an action is influenced by factors beyond an individual’s control. For example, a driver who accidentally hits a pedestrian may be judged more harshly than one who narrowly avoids an accident, even if both drivers made similar mistakes. Dr. Chen argues that this discrepancy reveals inconsistencies in how we assign moral responsibility. According to Dr. Chen, the concept of moral luck ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  • – A. undermines the idea that individuals can be held fully accountable for their actions.
  • – B. supports the notion that outcomes, not intentions, should determine moral judgments.
  • – C. suggests that moral responsibility is entirely dependent on external factors.
  • – D. highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to assessing moral responsibility.

Set B

1. Recent advancements in quantum entanglement have challenged our understanding of information transfer. Dr. Amelia Chen’s team at the Quantum Research Institute has successfully demonstrated the instantaneous transfer of quantum states between particles separated by over 1,000 kilometers. This phenomenon, which Einstein famously referred to as “spooky action at a distance,” seems to violate the principle that information cannot travel faster than the speed of light. However, the team’s findings suggest that while the quantum state is transferred instantaneously, no classical information is actually transmitted. This paradoxical result implies that ______

  • A) Einstein’s theory of relativity is fundamentally flawed and must be discarded.
  • B) instantaneous communication across vast distances is now possible using quantum entanglement.
  • C) our current understanding of the relationship between quantum mechanics and information theory may need revision.
  • D) classical physics can fully explain all quantum phenomena without the need for new theories.

2. In the field of paleoanthropology, the discovery of Homo naledi in South Africa’s Rising Star cave system has sparked considerable debate. These hominins, dated to between 335,000 and 236,000 years ago, possess a mosaic of primitive and derived features that challenge linear models of human evolution. Of particular interest is evidence suggesting that H. naledi may have engaged in ritualized body disposal, a behavior previously thought to be exclusive to more recent human species. This finding, if confirmed, would indicate that ______

  • A) H. naledi was a direct ancestor of Homo sapiens and should replace other species in the human lineage.
  • B) complex cognitive behaviors may have evolved independently in different hominin lineages.
  • C) all hominins, regardless of their anatomical features, possessed the same level of cognitive sophistication.
  • D) the dating of H. naledi remains is erroneous, and the species must be much more recent than currently believed.

3. The emerging field of biomimetic architecture seeks to address environmental challenges by emulating nature’s time-tested patterns and strategies. Architect Janine Benyus has pioneered the integration of biological principles into building design, resulting in structures that are not only more sustainable but also more resilient. For instance, the Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, mimics the self-cooling mounds of African termites, reducing energy consumption by 90% compared to conventional buildings of similar size. The success of such projects suggests that ______

  • A) traditional architectural practices are obsolete and should be completely abandoned.
  • B) nature-inspired design can offer innovative solutions to complex urban challenges.
  • C) all future buildings should strictly adhere to biomimetic principles regardless of context.
  • D) biomimetic architecture is only applicable in regions with climates similar to those of the emulated organisms.

4. Recent research in epigenetics has revealed that environmental factors can influence gene expression without altering DNA sequences. Dr. Sophia Ramirez’s longitudinal study at the Epigenetic Institute followed three generations of families exposed to varying levels of environmental toxins. The study found that grandchildren of individuals exposed to high levels of certain pollutants showed altered gene expression patterns related to metabolic function, even when they themselves lived in low-pollution areas. These results suggest that ______

  • A) genetic mutations are the sole cause of inherited metabolic disorders.
  • B) environmental exposures may have transgenerational epigenetic effects.
  • C) epigenetic changes are always beneficial adaptations to environmental stressors.
  • D) the impact of environmental toxins on human health has been greatly exaggerated.

5. The field of computational linguistics has made significant strides in natural language processing, yet the challenge of true language understanding remains elusive. Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka’s team at the AI Language Institute has developed a neural network capable of generating human-like responses in multiple languages. However, when subjected to the Winograd Schema Challenge—a test designed to evaluate genuine language comprehension—the system’s performance was only marginally better than chance. This outcome indicates that ______

  • A) all current approaches to artificial intelligence are fundamentally flawed and should be abandoned.
  • B) human language is too complex for machines to ever fully comprehend or replicate.
  • C) despite impressive advances in language generation, AI systems may still lack deep semantic understanding.
  • D) the Winograd Schema Challenge is an ineffective measure of language comprehension for both humans and machines.

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Digital SAT practice - answers

Set A

Level 1

  1. b
  2. b
  3. b
  4. c
  5. a

Level 2

  1. a
  2. b
  3. d
  4. b
  5. c

Level 3

  1. d
  2. c
  3. b
  4. a
  5. b

Level 4

  1. b
  2. a
  3. b
  4. c
  5. d

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