This post will cover a relatively common mistake students make in Reading B, and something that the question writers use to come up with wrong answers that are easy to fall for. It is always important to keep two things separate – what does the text specifically say, and what is something you have made a logical step to assume is correct. As always, we will look at an example question.

 

“Many third-world countries use blood unnecessarily. Where stricter indications for blood use have been introduced in sub-Saharan countries, consumption has dropped by almost two-thirds. Blood is often also used when alternatives would be more appropriate such as crystalloid or colloid solutions, which must first be imported and paid for in hard currency. Construction of local or district-based blood handling facilities could make a big impact on blood safety.”

 

Which of the following statements about developing countries is the most accurate?

1. A) Many cannot afford suitable alternatives to blood transfusion
2. B) There is no understanding of alternatives to blood transfusion
3. C) Some have increased their rates of blood transfusion
4. D) Facilities for blood handling are too expensive to construct

 

Let’s look at the answers from D to A. C and D are both examples of the trick we are focusing on in this post – they are both statements that are probably true, but they are not directly said in the text. For example, in answer D, it is probably true that facilities for blood handling are not built in poorer countries because they are too expensive, but the text does not mention cost at all; it only says that building these facilities could improve blood safety. Answer C is the same error; it is probably true that some of the countries have increased their use of transfusion, but all we are told in the text is that some have decreased their use. Again, you have to make sure that what you pick is said directly in the text. The answer for this question is A; we are told that the issue with alternatives is that they have to be imported and paid for, but the answer itself is not important. What is important is that in the exam you are careful with your choice of response and make sure it matches what it says in the text, rather than needing a logical jump.