Free Passage Reading MCQs with Answers

413 Passage Reading MCQs from English, each with the correct answer and a written explanation of why it is correct. Free and unlimited, with no account needed.

Passage reading requires identifying the central idea, supporting facts, author's purpose, tone, sequence and conclusions supported by the text. Questions may also test inference, vocabulary in context, reference words and the difference between information stated directly and meaning implied by the passage.

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413 questions · page 16 of 21

  • A. Clocks have changed over the years.
  • B. Old-fashioned clocks become fragile with age.
  • C. Old-fashioned clocks were operated by an internal spring.
  • D. Over winding clocks used to be a common mistake

Explanation: The discussion about the mainspring indicates that old-fashioned clocks operate with an internal spring mechanism.

Correct answer: Old-fashioned clocks were operated by an internal spring.
  • A. Critical reading is a slow, dull, but essential process.
  • B. The best critical reading happens at critical times in a person's life.
  • C. Readers should get in the habit of questioning the truth of what they read
  • D. Critical reading requires thoughtful and careful attention

Explanation: This is the most supported option. The paragraph describes critical reading as a demanding process that involves slowing down, marking up…

Correct answer: Critical reading requires thoughtful and careful attention
  • A. Phobias keep us from enjoying life
  • B. Fear affects us in several ways
  • C. Fear is the result of distrust and anxiety
  • D. Fear affects many people

Explanation: The passage suggests that obsessive fear can become a phobia, which keeps us from enjoying life.

Correct answer: Phobias keep us from enjoying life
  • A. Artists are poor
  • B. There is no market for creative work
  • C. Rings and necklaces cannot be creative
  • D. Commercial and creative work fulfills different needs for the artist

Explanation: This option is correct. The passage implies that commercial work is necessary for meeting practical needs like expenses, while creative…

Correct answer: Commercial and creative work fulfills different needs for the artist
  • A. Countries with the highest median income of the middle class do not have the highest levels of education for the middle class
  • B. It is difficult to reliably compare the education and income levels of one country with another
  • C. A reduction in the median income of the middle class of the country will not necessarily lower the average level of education for the said class
  • D. Countries with low levels of education for the middle class have comparatively higher levels of median income for the middle class

Explanation: This option is correct. The passage implies that there is no correlation between the median income and the average levels of education…

Correct answer: Countries with the highest median income of the middle class do not have the highest levels of education for the middle class
  • A. Individuals who do not consume enough tryptophan can develop depressive tendencies
  • B. Individuals who consume tryptophan can metabolize enough serotonin and do not run the risk of depression
  • C. Consumption of serotonin-laced foods can help cure depression in some cases
  • D. Tryptophan is an effective agent that can help cure depression in some cases

Explanation: The passage notes that tryptophan and its metabolite 5-HTP can cross the blood-brain barrier and are considered effective serotonergic…

Correct answer: Tryptophan is an effective agent that can help cure depression in some cases
  • A. Canceling traditional programs
  • B. Broadcasting of latest programs of current interest
  • C. Increasing popularity of Reality TV
  • D. Traditional dramas have tame scripts and stories

Explanation: This statement is not mentioned in the passage. The passage focuses on the impact of Reality TV on traditional programs but does not…

Correct answer: Traditional dramas have tame scripts and stories
  • A. to be impersonal
  • B. Avoid expressing personal perspective
  • C. Using first-person
  • D. None of these

Explanation: Being impersonal is a practical approach in business writing because it maintains objectivity and professionalism.

Correct answer: to be impersonal
  • A. Descriptive
  • B. Persuasive
  • C. Narrative
  • D. Expository

Explanation: This tone seeks to convince or persuade the audience to take a certain action or adopt a particular viewpoint, which aligns with the…

Correct answer: Persuasive
  • A. Bitter
  • B. Ironic
  • C. Humorous
  • D. Optimistic

Explanation: This tone conveys a sense of resentment or dissatisfaction, which fits with the expression of frustration about the lack of decent jobs…

Correct answer: Bitter
  • A. intelligent, wise
  • B. Deep in thought
  • C. Considerate of others
  • D. Quarrelsome

Explanation: "Pensive" describes someone who is often absorbed in deep thought or reflection.

Correct answer: Deep in thought
  • A. a type of bird
  • B. a small child
  • C. a species of tiger
  • D. a human civilization

Explanation: An egret is a type of bird known for its long, elegant plumage. The passage specifically refers to the egret's feathers being used in…

Correct answer: a type of bird
  • A. Abrupt
  • B. Elaborate
  • C. Dawdling
  • D. Capricious

Explanation: When someone provides an alibi that is too elaborate, it means they are providing too many details, which can raise suspicions.

Correct answer: Elaborate
  • A. Disregards
  • B. Pensively
  • C. Nemeses
  • D. Anxieties

Explanation: The sentence should read: "They were encouraged to express their fears and anxieties."This means that individuals were prompted to share…

Correct answer: Anxieties