Question ID e3edc138

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: e3edc138
In a heated debate in biogeography, the field is divided between dispersalists and vicariancists. ______ there are those who
argue that dispersal is the most crucial determining factor in a species’ distribution, and those who insist that vicariance
(separation due to geographic barriers) is. Biogeographer Isabel Sanmartín counts herself among neither.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Furthermore,

B. By contrast,

C. Similarly,

D. That is,

ID: e3edc138 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “That is” logically signals that this sentence clarifies the terms of the scientific debate
introduced in the previous sentence by explaining the difference between dispersalists and vicariancists.

Choice A is incorrect because “furthermore” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely additional to
(and separate from) the information in the previous sentence about the scientific debate. Instead, the information about
dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies the terms of that debate. Choice B is incorrect because “by contrast” illogically
signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the information in the previous sentence about the scientific
debate. Instead, the information about dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies the terms of that debate. Choice C is incorrect
because “similarly” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely similar to the information in the previous
sentence about the scientific debate. Instead, the information about dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies the terms of that
debate.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 00221c00
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 00221c00
In 1815, while in exile in Jamaica, Venezuelan revolutionary Simón Bolívar penned a letter praising England’s republican
government and expressing hope that Latin American nations seeking independence from Spain might achieve something
similar. The letter was addressed to a local merchant, Henry Cullen; ______ though, Bolívar’s goal was to persuade political
leaders from England and Europe to support his cause.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. additionally,

B. ultimately,

C. accordingly,

D. consequently,

ID: 00221c00 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Ultimately” means “in the long run” or “at the highest level.” Although Bolívar wrote to a local
merchant, his ultimate goal was to send a message to political leaders in Europe. Therefore, “ultimately” fits perfectly in this
context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of an agreeing idea. However, the second part
of the sentence actually disagrees with the first part. Bolívar addressed the letter to Cullen, but he was really sending a
message to someone else. Notice how the contrast word “though” also acts as a transition between these ideas. Choice C is
incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition. Bolívar’s writing of the letter to Cullen would not cause him to have
a goal of persuading European powers to support him. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition.
Bolívar’s writing of the letter to Cullen would not cause him to have a goal of persuading European powers to support him.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 326017ce
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 326017ce
For years, biologists have experimented with using grime-eating bacteria rather than harsh chemicals to clean artworks, and
results have been impressive overall. ______ these bacterial strains—which can metabolize centuries’ worth of oil, glue, dirt,
and other surface impurities without creating harmful byproducts—have proven more effective than traditional chemical
cleaning methods.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. However,

B. In many cases,

C. As a result,

D. Additionally,

ID: 326017ce Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The first sentence makes the claim that using grime-eating bacteria has led to “impressive
results.” This sentence supports that claim by describing the specific findings of the biologists’ experimentation. The
transition “in many cases” fits the context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with the previous
sentence. Both claim that grime-eating bacteria are better at cleaning artworks than chemicals. Choice C is incorrect. This
choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense in context. The fact that the results of the
experimentation have been impressive overall doesn’t cause the bacteria to have proven more effective. Choice D is
incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of a new idea. But this sentence doesn’t introduce a new
idea. Instead, it elaborates on the same idea laid out in the previous sentence by describing the “impressive results” in more
detail.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 20733eac
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 20733eac
It has long been thought that humans first crossed a land bridge into the Americas approximately 13,000 years ago. ______
based on radiocarbon dating of samples uncovered in Mexico, a research team recently suggested that humans may have
arrived more than 30,000 years ago—much earlier than previously thought.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. Similarly,

C. However,

D. In conclusion,

ID: 20733eac Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “However” logically signals that the theory discussed in this sentence—that humans may have
arrived in the Americas over 30,000 years ago—contrasts with the previously discussed theory that humans arrived around
13,000 years ago.

Choice A is incorrect because “as a result” illogically signals that the theory in this sentence is the result of the theory
discussed in the previous sentence. Instead, this theory contrasts with the previous one. Choice B is incorrect because
“similarly” illogically signals that the theory in this sentence is similar to the theory discussed in the previous sentence.
Instead, this theory contrasts with the previous one. Choice D is incorrect because “in conclusion” illogically signals that the
theory in this sentence concludes or summarizes the discussion of the previous theory. Instead, this theory contrasts with
the previous one.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f07570bb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: f07570bb
Researchers believe that pieces of hull found off Oregon’s coast are from a Spanish cargo ship that was lost in 1697. Stories
passed down among the area’s Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians support this belief. ______ Siletz stories describe how
blocks of beeswax, an item the ship had been carrying, began washing ashore after the ship was lost.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For this reason,

B. For example,

C. However,

D. Likewise,

ID: f07570bb Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “For example” logically signals that the Siletz beeswax stories mentioned in this sentence are
examples consistent with the previous claim that Siletz stories support the shipwreck theory.

Choice A is incorrect because “for this reason” illogically signals that the Siletz stories about the beeswax were caused by
the previous claim that Siletz stories support the shipwreck theory. Instead, the beeswax stories are examples consistent
with the claim. Choice C is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that the Siletz stories about the beeswax contrast
with the previous claim that Siletz stories support the shipwreck theory. Instead, the beeswax stories are examples
consistent with the claim. Choice D is incorrect because “likewise” illogically signals that the Siletz stories about the
beeswax are similar to the previous claim that Siletz stories support the shipwreck theory. Instead, the beeswax stories are
examples consistent with the claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 221ecf0f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 221ecf0f
Alexander Lawrence Posey (1873–1908) varied his focus and tone depending on the genre in which he was writing. In his
poetry, he used heartfelt language to evoke the beauty and peacefulness of his natural surroundings; in his journalism, ______
he employed humor and satire to comment on political issues affecting his Muskogee Creek community.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. that is,

B. granted,

C. similarly,

D. by contrast,

ID: 221ecf0f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. This sentence compares two examples of Posey’s tone: the “heartfelt language” he used in his
poetry versus the “humor and satire” he used in his journalism. We know from these descriptions and from the claim in the
previous sentence that the two tones are very different from each other. So the transition “by contrast” fits the context
perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea in other words. But the text
isn’t restating the first example here. Instead, it’s offering a second, totally different example. Choice B is incorrect. This
choice uses a transition that means “admittedly.” But the text isn’t admitting or conceding anything here. Instead, these two
examples work together to support the claim made in the first sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition
that indicates the addition of an agreeing idea. But these two examples are intentionally very different from each other, so
“similarly” doesn’t make sense here.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 97e2e364
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 97e2e364
Okot p’Bitek’s poem Song of Lawino (1966) explores postcolonial Ugandan life through the eyes of a woman living in a rural
village. With its vibrant imagery, bitingly satiric tone, and dexterous use of traditional Acholi song and phraseology, the poem
inspired a generation of East African writers. ______ those who adopted its style are often referred to as Okot School poets.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Nevertheless,

B. Fittingly,

C. By comparison,

D. Instead,

ID: 97e2e364 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Fittingly” is a transition that means “appropriately” or “suitably,” and it is appropriate that
writers who adopted their style from Okot p’Bitek would be known as the Okot School poets.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence is not disagreeing with anything—rather,
it’s discussing how it makes sense for those writers who adopted Okot’s style to be known as the Okot School poets. Choice
C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that compares two ideas. But this sentence is not comparing the Okot School
poets and their style to Okot’s style. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence is
not disagreeing with anything—rather, it’s discussing how it makes sense for those writers who adopted Okot’s style to be
known as the Okot School poets.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 01c8c433
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 01c8c433
Before the 1847 introduction of the US postage stamp, the cost of postage was usually paid by the recipient of a letter rather
than the sender, and recipients were not always able or willing to pay promptly. ______ collecting this fee could be slow and
arduous, and heaps of unpaid-for, undeliverable mail piled up in post offices.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Regardless,

B. On the contrary,

C. Consequently,

D. For example,

ID: 01c8c433 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Consequently” logically signals that the postal problems described in this sentence (slow fee
collection, heaps of undeliverable mail) were a consequence of the fee system described in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because “regardless” illogically signals that the postal problems described in this sentence occurred
despite the fee system described in the previous sentence. Instead, they were a consequence of that system. Choice B is
incorrect because “on the contrary” illogically signals that the postal problems described in this sentence contrast with the
fee system described in the previous sentence. Instead, they were a consequence of that system. Choice D is incorrect
because “for example” illogically signals that the postal problems described in this sentence are an example of the fee
system described in the previous sentence. Instead, they were a consequence of that system.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID db8fe023
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: db8fe023
A potter choosing which type of clay to use for a piece considers two key factors: the desired look of the piece and its
intended use. ______ earthenware clay is often used for decorative pieces because of its rustic look. This type of clay is not
often used in industrial settings, though, because it is less durable than other clays.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. Regardless,

C. In conclusion,

D. For example,

ID: db8fe023 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The previous sentence tells us that potters think about the look and use of a piece when
selecting clay. This sentence provides a specific example of a type of clay selected for its appearance, so the transition "for
example" fits perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea. But this sentence does
more than just restate the previous idea. Instead, it provides a more specific example of the idea presented in the first
sentence. Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with the
previous sentence. Both sentences suggest that desired look plays a role in the selection of clay types for pottery pieces.
Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a concluding transition. But this sentence doesn’t sum up the previous sentence.
Instead, it gives a specific example of the idea presented in the previous sentence.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 11df9b99
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 11df9b99
Because an achiral molecule is symmetrical, flipping it yields a structurally identical molecule. A flipped chiral molecule,
______ can be compared to a glove that has been turned inside out: it produces a structurally inverted molecule rather than
an identical one.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. in other words,

B. by contrast,

C. for example,

D. similarly,

ID: 11df9b99 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. This sentence compares a chiral molecule to an achiral one. It discusses how when a chiral
molecule is flipped, it results in something very different than when an achiral molecule is flipped. So the transition "by
contrast" fits the context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea in different words. But this
sentence doesn’t restate the same idea as the previous sentence. Instead, it makes a new point about a different type of
molecule (chiral instead of achiral). Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces an example, which
doesn’t make sense here. The second sentence isn’t an example of the first sentence’s claim about achiral molecules: it
actually introduces an entirely different idea that focuses on chiral molecules. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a
transition that indicates the addition of an agreeing idea. But this sentence shows a contrast with the first sentence—namely,
that a chiral molecule acts very differently from an achiral molecule when flipped.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 30438650
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 30438650
Jhumpa Lahiri’s story collection Interpreter of Maladies features multiple stories about romantic relationships. In “This
Blessed House,” newlyweds argue over whether to replace items left by the previous owners of their new home. ______ in “A
Temporary Matter,” a husband and wife attempt to rekindle their relationship during a four-night blackout.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Granted,

B. For example,

C. Likewise,

D. Hence,

ID: 30438650 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "Likewise" is a transition that indicates the addition of a new but related idea. In this sentence,
the author is providing another similar example to that discussed in the previous sentence. Therefore, "likewise" works best
in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that means "admittedly." But the text isn’t admitting or conceding
anything here. Instead, these two examples work together to support the claim made in the first sentence. Choice B is
incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The second story is not an
example of the story in the previous sentence—it’s another, similar story. And while both stories exemplify the first sentence
in the text, the transition we’re looking for isn’t actually connected to that sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a
cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The first story didn’t result in the events of the second story.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 6e0c60da
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 6e0c60da
When one looks at the dark craggy vistas in Hitoshi Fugo’s evocative photo series, one’s mind might wander off to the
cratered surfaces of faraway planets. ______ it’s the series’ title, Flying Frying Pan, that brings one back to Earth, reminding
the viewer that each photo is actually a close-up view of a familiar household object: a frying pan.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Consequently,

B. Alternatively,

C. Ultimately,

D. Additionally,

ID: 6e0c60da Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The first sentence describes an experience that the viewer has when they’re looking at the
photos: they imagine other planets. This sentence describes an experience that the viewer has afterward: the title reminds
them that the photos are of frying pans, bringing them back to reality. “Ultimately” is a transition that means “eventually” or
“in the end,” so it fits the context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The viewer imagining
other planets when they’re looking at the photos doesn’t cause the title to bring them back to reality. Choice B is incorrect.
This choice uses a transition that indicates another option or possibility, which doesn’t make sense here. Rather, the viewer
has both experiences: first the viewer imagines that they’re looking at another planet, and then the title reminds them that it’s
just a frying pan. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of an agreeing idea. But the
viewer’s experience in the second sentence is actually the opposite of the viewer’s experience in the first sentence. In the
first sentence, the viewer is imagining that they’re seeing a landscape from another planet. In the second sentence, the
viewer is reminded that they’re looking at a frying pan.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2df7b582
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 2df7b582
Plato believed material objects to be crude representations of unseen ideal forms. In his view, such abstract, nonmaterial
forms are the ultimate source of knowledge. Aristotle disagreed, positing that knowledge is best obtained through direct
engagement with the material world; ______ sensory experience of the material is the ultimate source of knowledge.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. regardless,

B. admittedly,

C. in other words,

D. meanwhile,

ID: 2df7b582 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “In other words” logically signals that the claim about sensory experience that follows—that
sensory experience is the source of knowledge—is a restatement of Aristotle’s theory from earlier in the sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because “regardless” illogically signals that the claim about sensory experience that follows is true in
spite of Aristotle’s theory from earlier in the sentence. Instead, this claim is a restatement of his theory. Choice B is incorrect
because “admittedly” illogically signals that the claim about sensory experience that follows is an exception to Aristotle’s
theory from earlier in the sentence. Instead, this claim is a restatement of his theory. Choice D is incorrect because
“meanwhile” illogically signals that the claim about sensory experience that follows is separate from (while occurring
simultaneously with) Aristotle’s theory from earlier in the sentence. Instead, this claim is a restatement of his theory.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 00e0170f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 00e0170f
Magnetic levitation (maglev) trains are suspended above a track by powerful electromagnets, reducing friction and thus
allowing for much faster speeds. Though maglev advocates in the US have long imagined these trains crisscrossing the
country, their dream remains unrealized. ______ of the handful of maglev trains currently in operation, all are in Asia.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In fact,

B. To that end,

C. Nevertheless,

D. That said,

ID: 00e0170f Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. This sentence emphasizes just how far maglev advocates’ dreams are from coming true. “In
fact” is a transition used to emphasize the truth of a statement that modifies the previous statement and therefore fits
perfectly in this context.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. Maglev advocates’
dream remaining unrealized would not cause there to be only a few maglev trains, all located in Asia. Choice C is incorrect.
This choice uses a disagreement transition, which doesn’t make sense here. In fact, this sentence agrees with the previous
sentence—both talk about how maglev trains are far from becoming common in the US. Choice D is incorrect. This choice
uses a disagreement transition, which doesn’t make sense here. In fact, this sentence agrees with the previous sentence—
both talk about how maglev trains are far from becoming common in the US.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c071eca2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: c071eca2
Iraqi artist Nazik Al-Malaika, celebrated as the first Arabic poet to write in free verse, didn’t reject traditional forms entirely;
her poem “Elegy for a Woman of No Importance” consists of two ten-line stanzas and a standard number of syllables. Even
in this superficially traditional work, ______ Al-Malaika was breaking new ground by memorializing an anonymous woman
rather than a famous man.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. therefore,

B. in fact,

C. moreover,

D. though,

ID: c071eca2 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The first sentence tells us that Al-Malaika sometimes used "traditional forms". The second tells
us that even when she used traditional forms, Al-Malaika was "breaking new ground". To connect these ideas, we need a
contrast word like "but." "Though" is a contrast word similar to "but."

Choice A is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that Al-Malaika sometimes used "traditional
forms". The second tells us that even when she used traditional forms, Al-Malaika was "breaking new ground". To connect
these ideas, we need a contrast word like "but." "Therefore" doesn’t show contrast; it shows cause and effect. Choice B is
incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that Al-Malaika sometimes used "traditional forms". The
second tells us that even when she used traditional forms, Al-Malaika was "breaking new ground". To connect these ideas,
we need a contrast word like "but." "In fact" is a phrase that usually emphasizes the truth of the previous statement. Choice C
is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that Al-Malaika sometimes used "traditional forms". The
second tells us that even when she used traditional forms, Al-Malaika was "breaking new ground". To connect these ideas,
we need a contrast word like "but." "Moreover" doesn’t show contrast—it introduces additional information that continues or
supports the previous idea.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 176edca6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 176edca6
A 2017 study of sign language learners tested the role of iconicity—the similarity of a sign to the thing it represents—in
language acquisition. The study found that the greater the iconicity of a sign, the more likely it was to have been learned.
______ the correlation between acquisition and iconicity was lower than that between acquisition and another factor studied:
sign frequency.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In fact,

B. In other words,

C. Granted,

D. As a result,

ID: 176edca6 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Granted” logically signals that the following information—that iconicity is not as highly
correlated with acquisition as sign frequency—is true in spite of the information about the correlation between iconicity and
acquisition in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because “in fact” illogically signals that the sentence that follows either emphasizes or refutes the
information in the previous sentence regarding the correlation between iconicity and acquisition. Instead, the sentence that
follows provides additional information that is true in spite of the preceding information; it neither emphasizes nor refutes
that information. Choice B is incorrect because “in other words” illogically signals that the sentence that follows is a
restatement of the information in the previous sentence; instead, the sentence that follows provides additional information
that is true in spite of the preceding information. Choice D is incorrect because “as a result” illogically signals that the
sentence that follows is a result of the information in the previous sentence regarding the correlation between iconicity and
acquisition; instead, the sentence that follows is true in spite of the preceding information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 388b45aa
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 388b45aa
Establishing Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) is no easy task. Each month, readings of a single second from atomic clocks
around the world are taken and sent to the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) in France. ______ BIPM
metrologists perform the meticulous work of assembling these minutely disparate readings into a globally shared time
standard.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. There,

B. In particular,

C. For example,

D. Conversely,

ID: 388b45aa Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "There" indicates that the work of calculating Coordinated Universal Time takes place at the
International Bureau of Weights and Measures in France. Because "there" indicates a location, it fits the context perfectly.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. This sentence is
describing where the work of coordinating Coordinated Universal Time takes place, not giving an example of the work
described in the previous sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification transition, which doesn’t make
sense here. This sentence is describing where the work of coordinating Coordinated Universal Time takes place, not giving
an example of the work described in the previous sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement
transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous sentence. They both describe the work involved in calculating
Coordinated Universal Time.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 9f1a0d91
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9f1a0d91
“Tulip mania”—the rapid rise and sudden fall of the price of tulip bulbs in seventeenth-century Amsterdam—is often cited as
an example of the perils of rampant market speculation. However, recent research has demonstrated that the episode was
neither as frenzied nor as disastrous as has been thought. The popular myth surrounding it, ______ should be regarded with
some skepticism.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. for example,

B. by contrast,

C. nevertheless,

D. therefore,

ID: 9f1a0d91 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. This sentence is arguing that new evidence contradicting popular beliefs about “tulip mania”
should cast doubt on those beliefs. “Therefore” is a cause-and-effect transition, which fits perfectly in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. Skepticism about the
popular beliefs is not an example of recent evidence contradicting those beliefs—rather, skepticism is an effect of that recent
evidence. Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the
previous sentence. Instead, it connects a cause from the previous sentence (new evidence that tulip mania was not as
disastrous as thought) to an effect (that we should look with skepticism upon the myth about its disastrousness). Choice C
is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous sentence.
Instead, it connects a cause from the previous sentence (new evidence that tulip mania was not as disastrous as thought) to
an effect (that we should look with skepticism upon the myth about its disastrousness).

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b7571c0a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: b7571c0a
Practical movie effects, such as the use of actual locations in a film, provide a more realistic visual experience than
computer-generated imagery (CGI) does, but giving audiences the “real thing” can be prohibitively expensive. ______ many
filmmakers use a blended approach, employing practical effects whenever possible and CGI elements as necessary to
control costs.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. For this reason,

C. Furthermore,

D. In other words,

ID: b7571c0a Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The first sentence tells us that practical effects are more realistic but also more expensive than
CGI. The second sentence tells us that many filmmakers use both kinds of effects, balancing realism with cost. To connect
these ideas, we need a cause-and-effect transition, like “therefore.” “For this reason” has the same meaning as “therefore.” .

Choice A is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that practical effects are more realistic but also
more expensive than CGI. The second sentence tells us that many filmmakers use both kinds of effects, balancing realism
with cost. To connect these ideas, we need a cause-and-effect transition, like “therefore.” “Similarly” doesn’t show cause and
effect: it shows the addition of another agreeing idea. Choice C is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence
tells us that practical effects are more realistic but also more expensive than CGI. The second sentence tells us that many
filmmakers use both kinds of effects, balancing realism with cost. To connect these ideas, we need a cause-and-effect
transition, like “therefore.” “Furthermore” doesn’t show cause and effect: it shows the addition of another agreeing
idea. Choice D is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that practical effects are more realistic
but also more expensive than CGI. The second sentence tells us that many filmmakers use both kinds of effects, balancing
realism with cost. To connect these ideas, we need a cause-and-effect transition, like “therefore.” “In other words” doesn’t
show cause and effect: it shows a restatement of the same idea in different words.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 47e238be
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 47e238be
Seismologists Kaiqing Yuan and Barbara Romanowicz have proposed that the magma fueling Iceland’s more than 30 active
volcano systems emerges from deep within Earth. The great depths involved—nearly 3,000 km—mark Iceland’s volcanoes as
extreme outliers; ______ many of Earth’s volcanoes are fed by shallow pockets of magma found less than 15 km below the
surface.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. indeed,

B. nevertheless,

C. in addition,

D. consequently,

ID: 47e238be Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The second part of the sentence says that many volcanoes use shallow pockets of magma.
This is an elaboration of the same underlying idea from the first part of the sentence, which says that the super deep magma
of Icelandic volcanoes’ makes them outliers. “Indeed” is a transition used for elaborating on the same idea, so it fits the
context perfectly.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But these two parts of the sentence agree with each other,
so “nevertheless” doesn’t make sense. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of a
new idea. But the second part of the sentence isn’t adding a new idea: it’s elaborating on the same idea expressed in the first
part of the sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here.
The fact that Iceland’s deep-magma volcanoes are outliers doesn’t cause many other volcanoes to get fed by shallow
pockets of magma.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0c13dea9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0c13dea9
The chemical trimethylamine N-oxide not only gives fish their fishy smell but also protects them from crushing hydrostatic
pressure in deep waters. Trimethylamine N-oxide strengthens the bonds between water molecules in a fish’s body. ______
these water molecules maintain their linked structure at extreme depths, thus preventing pressure-related damage.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Nevertheless,

B. As a result,

C. However,

D. For instance,

ID: 0c13dea9 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “As a result” indicates that water molecules maintaining their linked structure at high pressures
is caused by the strengthening of these water molecules by trimethylamine N-oxide. So the transition “as a result” fits the
context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous one—
rather, it’s describing an effect of the phenomenon described in the previous sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This choice
uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous one; it actually expands on the previous
sentence by describing an effect of the strengthened molecules. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification
transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The second sentence doesn’t provide an example or instance of the idea in the
previous sentence. Instead, it explores the effects of the previous idea in more depth.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID ad729337
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ad729337
With its clichéd imagery of suburban lawns and power lines, John Ashbery’s 2004 poem “Ignorance of the Law Is No Excuse”
may seem barren terrain for critical analysis. ______ cultural critic Lauren Berlant finds fertile ground in just its first two
stanzas, devoting most of a book chapter to deciphering the “weight of the default space” Ashbery creates in this poem.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Likewise,

B. Nonetheless,

C. In turn,

D. That is,

ID: ad729337 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Nonetheless” is a transition that indicates disagreement. The first sentence describes the
unlikelihood of finding much for critical analysis in Ashbery’s poem (“barren terrain”), while the second sentence describes
how Berlant did in fact find much to analyze in Ashbery’s poem (“fertile ground”), so the transition “nonetheless” fits
perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of a new but similar idea, which doesn’t make
sense here. The idea in this sentence directly contradicts the idea in the previous sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This
choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense in this context—a poem seemingly having little
opportunity for critical analysis would not cause someone to write an extensive critical analysis (in fact, we might expect the
opposite). Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea in other words.
But the text isn’t restating the first idea here. Instead, it’s offering a contradiction to the idea expressed in the first sentence.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0ee64efc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0ee64efc
In the 1850s, William Still was instrumental in helping nearly 1,000 people escape from slavery, earning him the moniker “the
Father of the Underground Railroad.” ______ despite the fame of his contributions during his lifetime, Still is discussed far
less today than other prominent Black abolitionists from his era, such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. However,

C. Specifically,

D. Similarly,

ID: 0ee64efc Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "However" is used to indicate a contrast between two ideas. The first sentence describes how
Still used to be famous. This sentence describes how Still is not very famous today, so the transition "however" fits perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces an example. But the second sentence doesn’t provide a
specific example of Still’s famous contributions to the Underground Railroad. Instead, it changes the subject to how his fame
has faded over time. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces an example or continuation of a
previous idea. But the second sentence doesn’t provide a specific example of Still’s famous contributions to the
Underground Railroad. Instead, it changes the subject to how his fame has faded over time. Choice D is incorrect. This
choice uses a transition that indicates the agreement between two ideas. But this sentence shows a contrast with the first
sentence—namely, that Still used to be very famous but now isn’t very famous.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 63c73b50
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 63c73b50
In 2018, Kurt Luther and Vikram Mohanty created the web-based tool Civil War Photo Sleuth (CWPS). A user uploading an
unknown Civil War soldier’s photograph to CWPS first tags the photo with all known information. ______ CWPS’s facial-
recognition software analyzes twenty-seven different physical features and looks for matches to tagged images already in
the database.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Then,

B. In fact,

C. Likewise,

D. For example,

ID: 63c73b50 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Then” indicates that the events in this sentence took place after the events in the previous
sentence. Only after users upload images of unknown soldiers can those images be analyzed.

Choice B is incorrect. This transition is used to emphasize the truth of a statement that modifies the previous statement. But
this sentence doesn’t modify the step described in the previous statement: instead, it introduces an entirely new step in the
process. So “in fact” wouldn’t make sense here. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the
addition of a new but related idea, which doesn’t make sense here. Analyzing the physical features in the uploaded
photographs isn’t a similar idea, but rather the next step in the process. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses an
exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. Analyzing physical features is not an example of uploading and
tagging an image.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 3831f2d7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 3831f2d7
Arkansas aviator Louise Thaden was already a record breaker when she won the inaugural National Women’s Air Derby, a
race from California to Ohio, in August of 1929. ______ in December of 1928, Thaden had set an aviation record when she
reached an altitude of 20,269 feet in a Travel Air biplane.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Earlier,

B. However,

C. Next,

D. As a result,

ID: 3831f2d7 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. This choice uses a transition that indicates a shift back in time. Since the first sentence talks
about Thaden’s race win in 1929 and the second shifts back to talking about her record in 1928, this makes the most sense
here.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with and expands on the
previous sentence by describing the earlier record that Thaden had "already" held. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a
transition that indicates a shift forward in time, which doesn’t make sense here. A record in 1928 didn’t come after Thaden’s
race win in 1929. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense in this
context—an event in 1929 can’t cause something in 1928.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 2b5e0731
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 2b5e0731
With darkness falling, a mother elephant loses sight of her calf and wants to make sure it is safe. ______ she releases an
infrasonic call for the calf to hear. Infrasonic sound is below the range of human hearing, but many animals can hear these
sounds from several miles away.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. For this reason,

C. Nowadays,

D. Similarly,

ID: 2b5e0731 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "For this reason" is a cause-and-effect transition. The cause in this case is that the mother
elephant wants to know that her calf is safe, so the effect is that she lets out an infrasonic call for the calf to hear. Therefore,
"for this reason" fits perfectly in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces an example of a previous idea. But the second sentence
doesn’t provide an example of the events described in the first sentence. Instead, it describes what happens next: the mother
elephant calls for her calf. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a shift from the past to the
current time, which doesn’t make sense here. Both sentences use the present tense, as they’re describing the same time
period. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates commonality or agreement between two ideas. But
this sentence isn’t similar to the events in the first sentence. Instead, it describes the events that happen next.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 1c36e3e1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1c36e3e1
The number of dark spots that appear on the Sun, known as sunspots, can vary greatly. For example, there were about 180
sunspots in November 2001. ______ there were only about 2 sunspots in December 2008.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. Similarly,

C. Therefore,

D. By comparison,

ID: 1c36e3e1 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The first sentence claims that the number of sunspots can vary greatly. To support this claim,
the next two sentences compare two examples: one time when there were 180 sunspots and one time when there were only
2 sunspots. So the transition “by comparison” fits perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea, which doesn’t make sense
here. This sentence doesn’t restate the first example—it describes a totally different example. Choice B is incorrect. This
choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of a similar idea, which doesn’t make sense here. This sentence
describes a second example that is very different from the first example. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-
and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The first example didn’t result in the second example.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID ac8eb085
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ac8eb085
“O2 Arena,” an award-winning science fiction story by Nigerian author Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, takes place in an
alternate version of Nigeria where breathable air is a rare commodity that is owned and sold by companies. ______ people
must purchase it with currency called O2 credits.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. In any case,

C. Nevertheless,

D. Earlier,

ID: ac8eb085 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The second sentence describes a consequence of the system laid out in the first sentence:
because air is owned and sold by companies in this world, people have to buy it.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that means “no matter what happens” or “whatever the situation is,”
which doesn’t make sense here. There’s only one situation described in the text: a fictional world in which companies own all
the breathable air, forcing people to buy it. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this
sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous sentence. They both describe the same fictional situation. Choice D is incorrect.
This choice uses a transition that indicates a shift back in time, which doesn’t make sense here. Both sentences use the
present tense, as they’re describing the same fictional time period.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 4154a7a3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 4154a7a3
In 1891, dancer and choreographer Loie Fuller first performed her celebrated Serpentine Dance, artfully twirling her long,
flowing skirt to create striking visual effects. ______ in 1896, cinema pioneers Auguste and Louis Lumière made a
groundbreaking short film of Fuller’s dance.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. However,

B. In conclusion,

C. Later,

D. In other words,

ID: 4154a7a3 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Later” logically signals that the event discussed in this sentence—the creation of the short film
featuring Fuller’s dance—is a related event that occurred after the event discussed in the previous sentence (the 1891 debut
of the dance).

Choice A is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the
information in the previous sentence. Instead, the creation of the short film is a related event that followed the event
discussed in the previous sentence. Choice B is incorrect because “in conclusion” illogically signals that the information in
this sentence concludes or summarizes the information in the previous sentence. Instead, the creation of the short film is a
related event that followed the event discussed in the previous sentence. Choice D is incorrect because “in other words”
illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a paraphrase or restatement of the information in the previous
sentence. Instead, the creation of the short film is a related event that followed the event discussed in the previous sentence.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID d3898d32
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: d3898d32
Riley Black—the author of critically acclaimed books such as My Beloved Brontosaurus (2013)—is best known for writing
about dinosaurs, but she has also conducted hands-on fieldwork. ______ her fieldwork has included paleontological digs in
Utah, Montana, and Wyoming, and her dinosaur fossil discoveries can be seen at places such as the Carnegie Museum of
Natural History.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Regardless,

B. Subsequently,

C. Specifically,

D. Conversely,

ID: d3898d32 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The second sentence provides more specific information about the fieldwork mentioned in the
first sentence—that the paleontological digs took place in Utah, Montana, and Wyoming. Therefore, “specifically” fits
perfectly in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous
sentence. Rather, this sentence agrees with and elaborates on the last sentence by providing more specifics about the
fieldwork Black does. Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates that an event took place after another
event. But the two sentences are not describing different events—instead, this sentence gives more details about the
fieldwork discussed in the first sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this
sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous sentence. Rather, this sentence agrees with and elaborates on the last sentence
by providing more specifics about the fieldwork Black does.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID ecb31049
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ecb31049
The Sun and other stars are powered by nuclear fusion reactions, in which two atoms collide to form a single heavier atom,
releasing energy. Scientists have long believed that fusion has the potential to meet humanity’s clean energy needs. ______
prior to December 2022, no fusion reaction in a laboratory setting had ever generated a net energy gain.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For this reason,

B. Moreover,

C. Specifically,

D. That said,

ID: ecb31049 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. Scientists believe in fusion’s potential as an energy source, but have struggled to actually make
it work—in other words, there is a contradiction between scientists’ beliefs and their reality. “That said” is a disagreement
transition that works perfectly in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. Scientists not being
able to generate extra energy from lab fusion reactions isn’t an effect of them believing in fusion’s potential. Choice B is
incorrect. This transition indicates the addition of another supporting point. But this sentence is not adding a supporting
point to the previous sentence—scientists not being able to successfully generate energy from fusion isn’t another point in
favor of fusion meeting humanity’s clean energy needs. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces or
elaborates on a particular example. But this sentence doesn’t give an example of scientists’ belief in fusion’s potential to
meet humanity’s clean energy needs—in fact, it contrasts that optimistic belief with the reality of past failures to successfully
employ fusion for energy production.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID eea351c4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: eea351c4
“Wishcycling”—putting nonrecyclable items into recycling bins under the mistaken belief that those items can be recycled—
ultimately does more harm than good. Nonrecyclable items, such as greasy pizza boxes, can contaminate recyclable
materials, rendering entire batches unusable. ______ nonrecyclable products can damage recycling plants’ machinery.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Fittingly,

B. On the contrary,

C. Moreover,

D. Nevertheless,

ID: eea351c4 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The first sentence tells us that “wishcycling” is harmful, the previous sentence gives us an
example, and this sentence gives us another example. So “moreover”—a transition that indicates the addition of another
supporting point—fits perfectly here.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that means “appropriately” or “suitably,” which doesn’t make sense in
context. This sentence adds another example of how “wishcycling” is harmful, so we’re looking for an addition transition.
Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with the previous
sentence. Both provide examples of how “wishcycling” is harmful. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement
transition. But this sentence actually agrees with the previous sentence. Both provide examples of how “wishcycling” is
harmful.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 39d1a519
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 39d1a519
To discover which fruit varieties were grown in Italy’s Umbria region before the introduction of industrial farming, botanist
Isabella Dalla Ragione often turns to centuries-old lists of cooking ingredients. ______ she analyzes Renaissance paintings of
Umbria, as they can provide accurate representations of fruits that were grown there long ago.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In sum,

B. Instead,

C. Thus,

D. Additionally,

ID: 39d1a519 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Additionally” logically signals that the painting analysis discussed in this sentence is an
additional part of the botany research discussed in the previous sentence. That is, to research which fruits Umbrians grew in
the past, the botanist analyzes old paintings in addition to looking at old lists of ingredients.

Choice A is incorrect because “in sum” illogically signals that the painting analysis discussed in this sentence is a concluding
summary of the botany research discussed in the previous sentence. Instead, the painting analysis is an additional part of
that research. Choice B is incorrect because “instead” illogically signals that the painting analysis discussed in this sentence
is an alternative to the botany research discussed in the previous sentence. Rather, the painting analysis is an additional part
of that research. Choice C is incorrect because “thus” illogically signals that the painting analysis discussed in this sentence
is a result of the botany research discussed in the previous sentence. Instead, the painting analysis is an additional part of
that research.

Question Difficulty: Medium