Question 57·200 Super-Hard SAT Reading Questions·Expression of Ideas
Scholars have often interpreted abrupt shifts in letter shape across a medieval manuscript as evidence that several scribes copied it independently. Multispectral imaging shows that many apparent shifts are later corrections whose fine strokes match those of the underlying text. Changes in ink composition indicate that the copying and correcting occurred in several distinct sessions. _____ one scribe appears to have copied and revised the manuscript during separate periods.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For a challenging transition question, determine both the logical relationship and the scope of the sentence after the blank. A statement that combines several findings calls for an overall-evaluation transition, whereas an initial-impression, concession, or specification transition describes a different relationship.
Hints
Separate the findings
Determine what the matching strokes suggest and what the changes in ink suggest.
Check for contrast
Ask whether work occurring in several sessions actually conflicts with one person working during separate periods.
Consider the sentence's scope
Decide whether the final sentence narrows one preceding detail or combines multiple pieces of evidence into an overall judgment.
Step-by-step Explanation
Identify what each finding establishes
The matching fine strokes suggest that the corrections and underlying text came from the same scribe. The changes in ink indicate that the work occurred during multiple sessions.
Determine how the final sentence uses the findings
The final sentence combines the evidence: the matching handwriting supports one scribe, while the changing ink explains how that scribe could have worked during separate periods.
Select the transition with the correct scope
Because the sentence presents an overall judgment reached by considering multiple findings, “On balance,” is the most logical transition.