ACT Preparation / Unit 6 ACT 0507 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Choosing a Transition by the Relationship
The idea
A transition question is a logic question, answered in three steps. First, cover the transition and read the sentence before and the sentence after. Second, name their relationship in plain words: the second adds to the first, contrasts with it, gives an example of it, results from it, or follows it in time. Third, choose the transition from that family, and eliminate every choice from a different family, however smooth it sounds.
In practice
Worked example: "The new library opened in March. ___, visits to the old branch fell by half." The second sentence is a result of the first, so the cause-and-effect family: as a result, or consequently. However would signal a contrast, for example an illustration, and similarly a likeness. Second: "The trail is steep. ___, the view rewards the climb." The second turns against the first, so the contrast family: still, or however.
Where people slip
When several choices come from the right family, more than one may work. A question asking which choice is not acceptable is solved by finding the one from the wrong family.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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