Purpose of paragraph

(PurpPara.)

Stems that ask us to describe the purpose of a paragraph within the passage's broader structure, often in abstract language (e.g. "to offer evidence in support of the contention that...").

Avg. 0.6 per section

“The main function of the third paragraph of the passage is to”

Argument part
11%
15%
50%
20%
5%

Avg. difficulty: 2.9

Correct answer criteria

  • Captures why author wrote paragraph; AND
  • Does not contain anything unsupported

Key tactics

  • Rely on low-res summaries
  • Ask about paragraph's relationship to main point

Answer choice tips

  • Wrong answers often (1) describe something author does in paragraph, but not author's motivation, or (2) describe purpose of a different paragraph

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Logical reasoning question types

Argument part Evaluate Fill in the blank Flaw or descriptive weakening Inference Main conclusion or main point Method of reasoning or descriptive Most strongly supported Must be false Must be true Necessary assumption Parallel flawed method of reasoning Parallel method of reasoning Point at issue: agree Point at issue: disagree Principle PSA - find or complete the application PSA - find the rule Resolve reconcile or explain Strengthen Sufficient assumption Weaken

Reading comprehension question types

Analogy (RC) Application Author’s attitude Author’s perspective Describe approach Describe organization Describe relationship Implied Logical continuation Main point Meaning in context (of word, phrase, or idea) Other’s perspective Principle or generalization Purpose in context (of word, phrase, or idea) Purpose of paragraph Purpose of passage Stated Structure WSE (RC)

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