Let’s Solve an Example

Alright, let’s dive into an example of a paired-passage type question for the SAT reading section. We encourage you to give it a try on your own before we go through the step-by-step explanation together. Paired-passage questions can be challenging, but don’t worry—you’ve got this!

Here’s the example:

Passage 1:
In the article “The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise,” the author emphasizes the advantages of engaging in physical activities in natural settings. Spending time outdoors has been linked to improved mental health, increased physical fitness, and enhanced overall well-being. The author argues that outdoor exercise provides a refreshing change from indoor environments and offers opportunities to connect with nature, which can reduce stress and boost mood. Furthermore, the article highlights studies that suggest outdoor exercise may lead to greater motivation and enjoyment, leading to long-term adherence to a healthy lifestyle.

Passage 2:
Contrasting this perspective, in the essay “The Benefits of Indoor Exercise,” the author presents a different viewpoint. The essay acknowledges the advantages of indoor exercise, such as convenience, safety, and accessibility. It argues that indoor fitness facilities provide controlled environments, allowing individuals to exercise regardless of weather conditions or time constraints. The essay emphasizes the availability of various equipment and structured workout programs that can target specific fitness goals. Additionally, the author contends that indoor exercise settings often offer social connections and support networks, fostering a sense of community among participants.

Based on the passages, which statement accurately summarizes the contrasting viewpoints of the authors?

A) Both authors agree on the physical and mental benefits of exercise but differ in their preferred settings.
B) The authors disagree on the benefits of exercise, with one focusing on mental health and the other on physical fitness.
C) The authors agree on the advantages of outdoor exercise and its positive impact on overall well-being.
D) Both authors acknowledge the benefits of exercise but present different perspectives on accessibility.

Now, take a moment to read the passages and answer the question. Once you’re ready, we’ll move on to the step-by-step explanation to determine the correct answer together.

Ready? Let’s go!

Step 1: Analyze the Passages
In this step, we need to understand the main ideas and contrasting viewpoints presented in the passages. Passage 1 emphasizes the benefits of outdoor exercise, while Passage 2 presents a different viewpoint, focusing on the advantages of indoor exercise. The question asks us to identify the statement that accurately summarizes the contrasting viewpoints of the authors.

Step 2: Eliminate Incorrect Answers
Let’s evaluate each answer choice and eliminate the ones that do not accurately summarize the contrasting viewpoints.

A) Both authors agree on the physical and mental benefits of exercise but differ in their preferred settings. This answer choice incorrectly suggests that the authors agree on the benefits of exercise but have different preferred settings. However, Passage 1 focuses on the benefits of outdoor exercise, while Passage 2 emphasizes the advantages of indoor exercise. Eliminate it as an incorrect choice.

B) The authors disagree on the benefits of exercise, with one focusing on mental health and the other on physical fitness. This answer choice incorrectly suggests that the authors have contrasting viewpoints on the benefits of exercise, with one focusing on mental health and the other on physical fitness. However, both passages discuss the positive impact of exercise on physical and mental well-being. Eliminate it as an incorrect choice.

C) The authors agree on the advantages of outdoor exercise and its positive impact on overall well-being. This answer choice incorrectly suggests that both authors agree on the advantages of outdoor exercise. However, Passage 2 presents a different viewpoint, focusing on the benefits of indoor exercise. Eliminate it as an incorrect choice.

D) Both authors acknowledge the benefits of exercise but present different perspectives on accessibility. This answer choice accurately summarizes the contrasting viewpoints of the authors. Passage 1 emphasizes the benefits of outdoor exercise, while Passage 2 discusses the advantages of indoor exercise, highlighting accessibility as a distinguishing factor. Keep it as a strong contender.

Step 3: Identify the Correct Answer
Among the answer choices, statement D accurately summarizes the contrasting viewpoints of the authors. It acknowledges that both authors recognize the benefits of exercise but present different perspectives on accessibility, with one focusing on outdoor exercise and the other on indoor exercise. Therefore, the correct answer is D) Both authors acknowledge the benefits of exercise but present different perspectives on accessibility.

Now that we’ve gone through the step-by-step explanation, see how you did! Understanding the contrasting viewpoints in paired-passage questions can be challenging, but with practice and careful analysis, you’ll become more adept at identifying the differing perspectives presented in the passages.