Question 8·Medium·Words in Context
In a recent report on urban wildlife, researchers explain that raccoons are remarkably adaptable: they thrive in environments ranging from rural woodlands to bustling city centers. This talent for adjustment stems from a behavioral trait known as plasticity, the capacity to modify habits when conditions change. Because of this trait, raccoons can readily learn to open trash bins or locate new food sources when their usual fare becomes ______.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
For words-in-context questions, always read the entire sentence (and surrounding sentences if given) to understand the situation and the cause-and-effect or contrast being described. Before looking at the choices, think in your own words about what type of word (positive/negative, problem/benefit, increase/decrease) should fill the blank. Then test each option directly in the sentence, eliminating any that break the logic or tone, even if they seem to fit the topic. Only choose a word that makes the sentence clear and sensible when you read it back in full.
Hints
Use the cause-and-effect relationship
Focus on the part of the sentence starting with “Because of this trait…” and notice how it explains when raccoons learn new behaviors.
Think about why new food sources are needed
Ask yourself: what would have to change about their usual fare to make raccoons search for different food?
Check the tone of the missing word
Decide whether the blank should describe a good situation or a problem, and eliminate options that don’t match that idea.
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand the sentence and its logic
First, read the whole sentence without the answer choices: raccoons can learn to open trash bins or locate new food sources when their usual food becomes something. The key idea is that their plasticity (ability to adjust) lets them change behavior when conditions change.
Figure out what must be true of the usual food
Ask: When would raccoons need to find new food sources? That would happen if there is a problem with their usual food—specifically, if it is no longer available or has declined so much that it can’t support them. So the blank should describe a negative change in the food supply.
Test each answer choice against that idea
Plug in each option:
- palatable (tasty or pleasant to eat): If food is tasty, there is no reason to look for new sources.
- abundant (plentiful): If food is plentiful, they also would not need new sources.
- routine (regular or usual): If food is regular as always, there’s no need to change habits. All three choices describe situations where raccoons would not be pushed to change behavior.
Confirm the remaining choice fits perfectly
The remaining option, depleted, means the food supply is used up or greatly reduced. That exactly matches the idea that when their usual fare declines, raccoons’ plasticity lets them learn new ways—like opening trash bins—to find other food sources. So the correct answer is D) depleted.