Reading Comprehension: Structure Questions
Which of the following best describes the function of the second paragraph?
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]The second paragraph certainly discusses IBM's strategy in relation to market conditions. However, there is nothing in the passage to suggest that the second paragraph is promoting anything in particular. Instead, our Initial Reading tells us that the second paragraph has a neutral or descriptive tone.
Excellent!
[[snippet]]According to our Initial Reading, the second paragraph deals with IBM's decision to sell off its PC business. Since this decision was based on an astute observation of market conditions, we know that the second paragraph deals with IBM's response to a market conditions.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]Although the second paragraph does mention steps taken to develop cloud computing, this reference is in support of the function of the second paragraph, rather than representing that function directly. Look for an answer choice that better represents the function of the paragraph.
Remember our rule: Focus on logic, structure, and function rather than on content.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]There is nothing in our Initial Reading to suggest that there is a narrative describing IBM's rise to prominence anywhere in the passage. On the contrary, we know that IBM's long and storied history is glossed over in only a half of a sentence, in the first paragraph.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]Details about how IBM came to find themselves in a position to sell off their PC business are found in the first paragraph, not the second. Using accurate information from the wrong portion of the passage is a common distractor in Structure questions.
