Set 14: Transitions
Explanation
PASSAGE
The gut microbiome—trillions of bacteria residing in our intestines—influences not only digestion but also immune function and possibly mood. Research has linked microbiome composition to conditions ranging from obesity to depression. _______ causality remains difficult to establish, as many observed correlations might reflect reverse causation or shared underlying factors.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Detailed Answer Explanation
This question asks you to choose the transition that best connects two ideas. The research is promising but has limitations. 'That said' introduces the important caveat about causality. Transitions signal the relationship between sentences or paragraphs. Determine the logical relationship (addition, contrast, cause-effect, example) and select the transition that accurately expresses it. The right transition makes the relationship between ideas crystal clear. Consider what logical connection exists: Is the second idea adding to the first? Contrasting it? Showing a result? The transition should accurately reflect this relationship.
Key Evidence:
• "Research has linked"
• "causality remains difficult to establish"
Why others are wrong: B (Emphasis - the caveat complicates, not confirms, the findings.), A (Comparison - the caveat qualifies, not resembles, the research.), C (Cause/effect - the difficulty isn't a consequence of the links.).
🎯 Keep Practicing!
Master all sections for your best SAT score