Set 1: Inferences (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
In her later interviews, the author distanced herself from her debut novel, calling it 'the work of a different person.' Critics and readers, however, continued to regard it as her masterpiece, citing its raw emotional power that her more polished later works lacked.
What can be inferred about the relationship between artistic intention and reception?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. Author rejected it; audiences loved its 'raw emotional power'—they valued what she dismissed. A valid inference must be supported by evidence in the passage, even if not stated directly. Look for clues in the text that strongly suggest the answer. Avoid conclusions that require assumptions beyond what's written. Valid inferences are strongly supported by multiple pieces of evidence in the text. Be cautious of choices that go too far beyond what the passage actually states. The best inference is the one most directly supported by textual evidence.
Key Evidence:
• "distanced herself"
• "continued to regard it as her masterpiece"
Why others are wrong: A (Here the audience disagreed with the author's judgment.), C (Her debut was considered the best.), D (The passage shows explicit disagreement.).