Personal diaries—whether they are written in notebooks or on scraps of paper—can offer historians a unique window into private life. For his book about soldiers in the 18th century, historian David Miller relied on pocket diaries kept by infantrymen. By doing so, he uncovered details about their daily rations and fears that official military reports never recorded.
Which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence in the text as a whole?
It explains the difference between a notebook and a scrap of paper.
It argues that David Miller is the greatest historian of the 18th century.
It describes how Miller benefited from using diaries as a source.
It summarizes the official military strategy of the 18th century.
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The sentence says: "By doing so, he gained valuable insights..." This describes the benefit Miller got from using the diaries.
Choice A is incorrect. Notebooks/scraps are just examples. Choice B is incorrect. "Insights" doesn't mean he's the "greatest." Choice D is incorrect. It focuses on soldiers' lives, not strategy.