Learn the fundamentals of Command of Evidence questions on the SAT and ACT Reading tests. This stack covers the definition, purpose, and two primary formats of these questions.
What is the main purpose of a "Command of Evidence" question on the SAT or ACT Reading section?
To test your ability to find and identify the specific part of a text that serves as direct proof or support for an answer, a claim, or a conclusion.
What are the two primary formats for Command of Evidence questions?
1. Paired Questions: A set of two questions where the second asks for evidence supporting the answer to the first.
2. Standalone Evidence Questions: A single question that asks you to find evidence for a specific claim provided in the question itself.
Describe the structure of a "Paired Question" set.
It consists of two related questions. The first is a standard reading comprehension question (e.g., about the main idea or an inference). The second asks, "Which choice provides the best evidence for the answer to the previous question?"
In a paired question set, what do the answer choices for the second question consist of?
The answer choices for the second question are always specific line numbers or ranges of line numbers from the passage.
Describe the structure of a "Standalone Evidence" question.
It is a single question that presents a specific claim or conclusion and then asks you to select the line numbers from the passage that best support that claim.
What does the phrase "best evidence" imply when selecting an answer?
It means you are looking for the most direct, explicit, and sufficient support for the claim or answer. Other choices might be related but are less direct or precise.
Why is it crucial to avoid using outside knowledge on Command of Evidence questions?
These questions are designed to test your ability to find support *within the text*. The correct answer must be directly supported by the lines cited, regardless of any prior knowledge you may have on the topic.
How do Command of Evidence questions relate to making inferences?
While some questions test inferences, the evidence itself should be as explicit as possible. The evidence lines are the textual foundation upon which a logical inference is built.
What is the fundamental relationship between the first and second questions in a paired set?
It's a cause-and-effect relationship. The lines of evidence (the 'cause') are the reason why the answer to the first question (the 'effect') is correct.
Why are Command of Evidence questions a significant part of the SAT/ACT Reading score?
They emphasize evidence-based reading, a critical skill in college and beyond. The tests reward students who can analyze texts closely and justify their interpretations with textual proof.
