Here is an Example

Here’s an example of a “technique” type question for the SAT reading section, along with a sample passage and a step-by-step explanation of the correct and incorrect answers.

In the novel “The Empty Room,” the protagonist, Sarah, experiences a devastating loss when her husband unexpectedly passes away. Throughout the book, the author employs various literary techniques to convey the emotional turmoil Sarah goes through. One such technique is the use of vivid sensory imagery. When describing Sarah’s grief, the author meticulously paints a picture of her world devoid of color and filled with a constant sense of emptiness. The passage reads, “Sarah walked through the empty rooms of her house, the once vibrant colors now faded to shades of gray. The silence echoed in her ears, a constant reminder of his absence.” This detailed and vivid description allows readers to viscerally experience Sarah’s loss. Additionally, the author employs the technique of interior monologue to provide insight into Sarah’s thoughts and emotions. By delving into Sarah’s innermost thoughts, the author allows readers to empathize with her deep sorrow and despair.

Which technique does the author primarily use in the passage to convey the emotional impact of the protagonist’s loss?
A) Dialogue
B) Flashbacks
C) Sensory imagery
D) Symbolism

Step 1: Analyze the Passage
In this step, we need to understand the main idea and purpose of the passage. The passage discusses the protagonist’s loss and the techniques used by the author to convey the emotional impact of that loss. The two techniques mentioned are vivid sensory imagery and interior monologue.

Step 2: Eliminate Incorrect Answers
Let’s evaluate each answer choice and eliminate the ones that do not match the techniques used in the passage.
A) Dialogue: This answer choice is incorrect because the passage does not mention any direct conversations or exchanges between characters. There is no indication of dialogue being used as a technique.
B) Flashbacks: This answer choice is incorrect because the passage does not mention any use of flashbacks to convey the emotional impact of the protagonist’s loss. The focus is on present experiences and thoughts.
C) Sensory imagery: This answer choice is correct because the passage explicitly mentions the use of vivid sensory imagery to convey the emotional impact of the protagonist’s loss. The author describes the faded colors and the silence that constantly reminds Sarah of her husband’s absence.
D) Symbolism: This answer choice is incorrect because the passage does not mention any use of symbolism as a technique to convey the emotional impact of the loss.

Step 3: Identify the Correct Answer
Based on the analysis and elimination process, the correct answer is C) Sensory imagery. The passage explicitly states that the author employs vivid sensory imagery to convey the emotional impact of the protagonist’s loss. The description of faded colors and echoing silence evokes a strong emotional response in readers, allowing them to experience Sarah’s grief firsthand.

It’s important to note that the step-by-step explanation provided here is just one way to approach the question. Different test takers may have different reasoning processes, but the main goal is to understand the passage, eliminate incorrect answers, and select the answer choice that best aligns with the techniques used in the passage.