Question 167·Medium·Central Ideas and Details
For decades, some commentators have predicted that printed books would soon disappear, replaced entirely by screens. Yet sales figures tell a different story: global print book sales have held steady for the last ten years, and in some regions they have even risen. Surveys suggest that many readers prefer the tactile experience of turning pages and find it easier to remember information read in print than information read on a device. Publishers have adapted by releasing titles in both formats, positioning print and digital reading as complementary rather than competing experiences.
Which statement best expresses the central claim of the text?
For central-claim questions, first summarize the passage in your own words in 5–10 seconds, focusing on the contrast or change the author highlights. Then scan the choices and eliminate any that (1) introduce ideas not in the passage (like profits or publicity), (2) are too narrow—only about one detail instead of the whole passage, or (3) use extreme language that the passage doesn’t support (words like "always," "never," or "solely"). The correct answer will capture both the main topic and the author’s overall point about it, not just a side detail.
Hints
Look at the first two sentences
Focus on how the passage contrasts early predictions about print books with what has actually happened according to sales figures.
Pay attention to repeated ideas
What explanations does the passage give for why readers still use print books? Look for words like "prefer," "tactile," and "easier to remember."
Distinguish main idea from details
Ask yourself: Which choice sums up the whole passage, and which ones only talk about one small part, add an extreme word like "solely," or introduce an idea (like profits or publicity) that the passage never mentions?
Step-by-step Explanation
Identify the main topic and contrast
First, notice the big contrast in the first two sentences: some commentators predicted printed books would disappear, but sales figures show that print book sales have stayed steady or risen. This tells you the passage is mainly about how print books are still doing well despite predictions that screens would replace them.
Notice the key reasons and explanation
Next, look at the middle of the passage: surveys show that readers like the tactile experience of turning pages and find it easier to remember information read in print than on a device. At the end, publishers treat print and digital as complementary. These details explain why print books remain strong, not just that they exist.
Match the answer choice to the overall point, not a detail
Now compare choices to this overall idea: printed books have remained popular even as digital reading has grown, partly because print offers certain benefits (tactile feel, memory advantages). The best answer must mention both the ongoing popularity of print and that it offers advantages compared with screens. Choice D does this, so it best expresses the central claim of the text.