- What is the primary tone of the passage?
Answer: Urgent and concerned
When analyzing tone in reading passages, you're identifying the author's attitude and emotional stance toward the subject matter. Look for specific word choices, urgency markers, and the overall message the author wants to convey.
This passage demonstrates an urgent and concerned tone through several key indicators. The author uses alarm-raising language like "one of the most significant threats to modern medicine" and warns that "common infections and minor injuries could once again become fatal." The phrase "urgent, coordinated action is required" explicitly signals both immediacy and serious concern. The author isn't just presenting facts—they're actively advocating for immediate response to a critical problem.
Option A is incorrect because nostalgic writing would focus on fondly remembering the past, but this passage mentions past antibiotic success only to highlight current dangers. Option B fails because while the passage contains factual information, the emotional language and call-to-action clearly show the author's concerned perspective rather than neutral objectivity. Option D misses the mark because pessimistic and defeated writing would suggest hopelessness, but this author still believes action can "preserve the efficacy of these critical medicines"—showing concern but not defeat.
For HESI reading questions about tone, pay attention to action words and emotional intensity. Words like "urgent," "critical," "threats," and calls for immediate action typically signal concern rather than neutrality. The author's purpose—whether to inform, persuade, or warn—often reveals the tone. Here, the author clearly wants to motivate action, indicating genuine concern about a solvable problem.
- What is the author's primary purpose in writing this passage?
Answer: To recount the historical discovery of the cure for scurvy
When you encounter a question asking about an author's primary purpose, focus on the passage's overall structure and what the author spends most time discussing. Look for the main thread that connects all the information presented.
This passage follows a clear historical narrative: it introduces scurvy as a mysterious disease that plagued sailors, then describes James Lind's groundbreaking 1747 experiment that identified citrus fruits as the cure, and concludes with the broader impact of his discovery. The author is telling the story of how scurvy's cure was discovered through scientific experimentation.
Choice D correctly captures this primary purpose—the passage recounts the historical sequence of events leading to scurvy's cure, from the problem identification through Lind's experiment to the eventual implementation of his findings.
Choice A is incorrect because while James Lind is mentioned, the passage provides minimal biographical details about him personally. The focus is on his specific experiment and its significance, not his life story.
Choice B misses the mark because the author isn't arguing for citrus fruits' superiority. Instead, the passage objectively reports that Lind's experiment demonstrated their effectiveness—this is historical fact-telling, not persuasive writing.
Choice C is wrong because scurvy symptoms receive only brief mention in the opening sentence. The passage quickly moves past symptoms to focus on the discovery of the cure.
For HESI reading questions about author's purpose, identify what takes up the most "real estate" in the passage. The primary purpose should account for the majority of the content, not just isolated details or supporting information.
- The author's primary purpose in describing these patient interactions is to:
Answer: Reveal the profound humanity underlying medical care and remind healthcare workers of their deeper purpose beyond technical competency
When you encounter reading comprehension questions about author's purpose, focus on the overall tone and central message rather than getting caught up in specific details or examples mentioned in the passage.
This passage uses vivid storytelling to illuminate a deeper truth about healthcare. The author describes patients sharing personal narratives—holiday cards from former students, a child's first steps, immigration stories—but these specific examples serve a larger purpose. The key phrases are "remind healthcare workers why their profession exists" and "rediscover the sacred trust placed in their hands." The author is emphasizing that medical care involves preserving "human dignity, memory, and hope," not just treating symptoms. This points directly to answer C, which captures the passage's central theme about the profound humanity underlying medical care.
Answer A is incorrect because the passage doesn't provide communication techniques or focus on improving satisfaction—it's more philosophical than instructional. Answer B misses the mark because the author isn't advocating for policy changes or schedule modifications; there's no call to action about time allocation. Answer D focuses too narrowly on therapeutic benefits for patients, but the passage emphasizes what these interactions mean for healthcare workers and their understanding of their role.
For HESI reading questions about author's purpose, look for the passage's emotional core and overarching message. Authors often use specific examples to illustrate broader themes, so don't be distracted by the details—focus on what those details collectively represent about the author's main point.
- The author's tone in this passage is best described as:
Answer: Insistent and emphatic
When analyzing tone in reading passages, you need to identify the author's attitude and emotional approach toward the subject matter. Look for word choices, sentence structure, and the overall urgency or feeling conveyed.
This passage demonstrates an insistent and emphatic tone through several key indicators. The author uses urgent language like "every second counts" and "time is brain" to stress the critical nature of stroke treatment. The phrase "not just helpful; they are a life-saving tool" shows strong emphasis through both the semicolon structure and the escalating language from "helpful" to "life-saving." Words like "rapidly," "narrow therapeutic window," and "empowers bystanders to act decisively" all convey urgency and determination to convince readers of the importance of quick action.
Option A is incorrect because while the subject matter is serious, the author maintains an urgent, action-oriented approach rather than a discouraging one. The tone pushes for awareness and action, not despair. Option C misses the mark because the writing isn't detached—it's emotionally engaged and purposeful, using compelling language to motivate rather than simply inform. Option D is wrong because there's no irony or skepticism present; the author fully endorses the importance of rapid stroke recognition and treatment.
For HESI reading questions about tone, pay attention to emotionally charged words, sentence rhythm, and the author's apparent purpose. Authors who use urgent language, strong emphasis, and action-oriented phrases typically demonstrate an insistent, emphatic tone designed to persuade or motivate readers.
- The author's attitude toward current patient satisfaction measurement systems is:
Answer: Constructively critical of current approaches while advocating for more comprehensive and balanced quality measurement systems
The author is constructively critical, acknowledging that 'patient feedback provides valuable insights' while criticizing current implementation that 'may actually compromise patient care.' The author advocates for 'more sophisticated measures that balance patient experience with clinical effectiveness.' Choice A is incorrect because the author identifies serious problems with current systems. Choice C is incorrect because the author values patient feedback but wants better integration with clinical measures. Choice D is incorrect because the author seeks better accountability systems, not reduced accountability.
- The author's primary purpose in this passage is to:
Answer: Advocate for a specific policy based on an ethical and safety argument
When you encounter reading comprehension questions about an author's primary purpose, focus on the overall goal and tone of the passage rather than getting distracted by specific details or examples mentioned along the way.
This passage takes a clear argumentative stance from the beginning. The author presents mandatory flu vaccination as "critical" and "necessary," then systematically builds a case using ethical principles ("first, do no harm") and scientific evidence (studies showing reduced transmission rates). The language is persuasive, not neutral, as the author explicitly argues that vaccination policies are "not a matter of personal choice, but a professional and ethical necessity."
Choice C correctly identifies this advocacy approach. The author isn't just discussing the topic—they're actively promoting mandatory vaccination policies by combining ethical obligations with patient safety data.
Choice A is incorrect because the passage is clearly one-sided, not neutral. The author dismisses objections based on personal autonomy and doesn't present both sides equally. Choice B misses the mark entirely—while vaccination is mentioned, there's no explanation of biological mechanisms or how vaccines work. Choice D is wrong because although studies are referenced, they're used as supporting evidence rather than being analyzed in detail. The studies serve the larger argumentative purpose.
For HESI reading questions about author's purpose, look for the dominant tone and overall message. Ask yourself: "Is the author trying to convince me of something, inform me neutrally, or analyze data objectively?" Strong language like "critical," "necessity," and "obligation" signals advocacy rather than neutral information-sharing.
- The author's attitude toward the relationship between evidence-based practice and clinical intuition is:
Answer: Diplomatically balanced, advocating for the thoughtful integration of research evidence with experienced clinical judgment and patient preferences
When analyzing author attitude questions, look for tone indicators and qualifying language that reveal the writer's perspective on competing viewpoints. The author isn't taking an extreme position but rather seeking middle ground.
The passage reveals a balanced, diplomatic tone through several key phrases. The author acknowledges that evidence-based practice represents a "fundamental shift" and provides "important guidelines," showing respect for scientific approaches. However, they also validate clinical intuition as valuable knowledge "developed over years of practice." Most telling is the phrase "the most skilled nurses have learned to integrate" both approaches, indicating the author's preference for synthesis rather than choosing sides.
The author advocates for "integration" and calls for "refinement through scientific understanding" rather than "abandonment" of clinical intuition. This diplomatic language points directly to answer D, which captures this balanced integration approach.
Answer A is wrong because the author doesn't advocate for evidence-based protocols over intuition—they explicitly value both. Answer B misses the mark because the author isn't academically detached; they clearly advocate for the integration approach rather than remaining neutral. Answer C incorrectly suggests skepticism toward evidence-based practice, when the author actually supports it as part of a balanced approach.
For HESI reading comprehension questions about author attitude, pay attention to qualifying words like "however," "while," and "rather than." Authors who use diplomatic language like "integration," "balance," and "thoughtful" typically aren't taking extreme positions. Look for synthesis approaches rather than either/or thinking.
- What is the author's tone regarding the new Alzheimer's drug?
Answer: Analytically critical
When analyzing an author's tone, you need to look for specific word choices and the overall attitude expressed toward the subject matter. Tone questions require you to distinguish between what the author says and how they feel about it.
The author demonstrates an analytically critical tone by presenting both sides of the issue while maintaining scholarly skepticism. Key phrases like "we must temper our excitement" and "while we may have found a way to treat a symptom on a brain scan, we are not necessarily closer to treating the person" show careful, measured analysis rather than emotional reaction. The author acknowledges the positive development but immediately follows with important limitations, demonstrating critical thinking about the research's real-world implications.
Answer A is incorrect because "unreservedly optimistic" would require unqualified praise without mentioning limitations. The author clearly expresses reservations about the drug's clinical value.
Answer B fails because "completely dismissive" would involve rejecting the research entirely. Instead, the author acknowledges it as a "breakthrough" while questioning its practical significance.
Answer D is wrong because the author shows no confusion—their argument is clearly structured and decisive about what the research does and doesn't accomplish.
The correct answer is C because the author takes an analytical approach, systematically evaluating both the promising aspects and significant limitations of the research while offering constructive criticism about future research directions.
For HESI reading questions about tone, look for qualifying words like "while," "however," and "but" that signal nuanced positions rather than extreme viewpoints.
- The author's purpose is to:
Answer: Critique the study's limitations and caution against misinterpretation
When you encounter reading comprehension questions about author's purpose, look for key phrases and the overall tone to understand what the author is trying to accomplish. This passage discusses a medical study but takes a critical stance toward how it's being interpreted.
The author's main purpose is to critique the study's limitations and warn against misinterpretation. Notice the critical language: "sensationalized," "crucial to examine," and "premature and potentially misleading conclusion." The author systematically identifies flaws in the research methodology, explaining that observational studies can only show correlation, not causation, and that confounding variables weren't properly controlled. The entire passage builds an argument for caution rather than panic.
Let's examine why the other options miss the mark. Choice A is incorrect because the author doesn't simply summarize findings—they actively critique the study's validity and media coverage. Choice B is wrong because the author never advises people to stop using artificial sweeteners; instead, they argue against rushing to conclusions. Choice D misses the point entirely since the author criticizes the media for "sensationalizing" the findings, not praising them for awareness.
The correct answer is C because the author systematically points out methodological flaws and warns against drawing premature conclusions from limited evidence.
For HESI reading questions about author's purpose, pay attention to the author's tone and approach. Are they informing, persuading, criticizing, or explaining? Look for evaluative language that reveals the author's stance—words like "crucial," "premature," or "misleading" signal critical analysis rather than neutral reporting.
- What is the author's tone in this passage?
Answer: Explanatory
When you encounter tone questions on reading passages, you need to identify the author's attitude and approach toward the subject matter. Look for clues in word choice, sentence structure, and overall purpose.
This passage maintains an explanatory tone throughout. The author presents factual information about how biological classification systems have evolved, using neutral language like "has undergone significant revision" and "scientists can now compare organisms." The writing follows a clear informational structure: introducing the traditional system, explaining what caused changes, and providing specific examples. There's no emotional language or persuasive elements—just straightforward presentation of scientific developments.
Let's examine why the other options don't fit. Choice A (Argumentative) is incorrect because the author isn't trying to convince you of a particular viewpoint or debate a controversial issue—they're simply explaining how classification systems changed based on new technology. Choice C (Skeptical) doesn't work because the author shows no doubt or questioning attitude toward the information presented; instead, they accept and explain the scientific developments as factual. Choice D (Biased) is wrong because the passage shows no favoritism or prejudice—the author presents both the old and new systems objectively without suggesting one is inherently better.
The correct answer is B (Explanatory) because the author's primary purpose is to inform and educate readers about changes in biological classification.
For HESI reading questions about tone, focus on the author's purpose and emotional stance. Explanatory passages teach without arguing, while argumentative ones try to persuade. Look for neutral versus charged language to distinguish between them.
- What is the author's main purpose for writing this passage?
Answer: To inform the reader about the nature and significance of the placebo effect
When analyzing author's purpose questions, focus on the overall tone and structure of the passage to determine what the author is trying to accomplish.
This passage takes an informational, educational approach to explaining the placebo effect. The author systematically defines what placebos are, describes their documented effects, explains the scientific evidence behind them (including brain imaging studies), and discusses their potential significance for future medicine. The neutral, explanatory tone suggests the author wants to teach readers about this phenomenon rather than advocate for any particular position.
Choice B correctly identifies this informational purpose. The author presents factual information about placebos in a balanced way, helping readers understand both what the effect is and why it matters scientifically.
Choice A is wrong because the author never suggests patients should seek placebo treatments. The passage focuses on understanding the phenomenon, not recommending specific actions for patients.
Choice C misses the mark entirely—there's no criticism of research practices here. Instead, the author presents research findings positively as evidence of placebo effects.
Choice D represents a major misinterpretation. The author never compares placebos to conventional medicines or suggests that regular medications are ineffective. The focus remains solely on understanding how placebos work.
For HESI reading questions about author's purpose, pay attention to the overall tone and ask yourself: Is the author trying to inform, persuade, entertain, or criticize? The neutral, fact-based presentation here clearly indicates an informational purpose.
- Which of the following best describes the author's tone in this passage?
Answer: Balanced and cautionary
When analyzing author tone, you need to look beyond individual words to examine how the author presents different perspectives and what overall attitude emerges toward the topic.
The author demonstrates a balanced approach by presenting both sides of telemedicine equally. They acknowledge the benefits ("convenience," "reduce healthcare costs") while giving equal weight to legitimate concerns ("limitations of remote diagnosis," "patient data breaches"). The concluding statement reveals a cautionary stance: "a careful, regulated approach is necessary to ensure that the quality of care is not compromised." This shows measured support with important reservations.
Answer A is incorrect because "enthusiastically supportive" would mean the author strongly favors telemedicine without significant reservations. Instead, the author emphasizes potential risks and the need for regulation. Answer B is wrong because "strongly dismissive" would involve rejecting telemedicine's value entirely, but the author acknowledges it as "a promising tool." Answer D misses the mark because "strictly neutral" would mean presenting facts without any evaluative language or recommendations, yet the author clearly advocates for a "careful, regulated approach."
The correct answer is C because the author maintains balance by fairly presenting both benefits and drawbacks while taking a cautionary position about implementation.
For HESI reading questions about tone, look for evaluative language and how the author treats opposing viewpoints. Authors who present multiple perspectives fairly but offer measured recommendations typically demonstrate a "balanced and cautionary" tone rather than strict neutrality or strong bias.
- The author's tone regarding the future of nursing can best be characterized as:
Answer: Optimistically confident that technological advances will ultimately strengthen nursing practice while preserving its essential human elements
The author's tone is optimistically confident, describing challenges as creating 'extraordinary opportunity for transformation' and stating that technology 'promises to enhance rather than replace human nursing skills.' The author sees positive potential in technological integration while preserving nursing's human elements. Choice A is incorrect because the author is optimistic rather than pessimistic about technology's impact. Choice C is incorrect because the author clearly believes these changes will improve nursing practice, not remaining neutral. Choice D is incorrect because while challenges are acknowledged, the tone emphasizes opportunity rather than alarm.
- The author's tone toward current cultural competency training can best be described as:
Answer: Constructively critical of superficial approaches while advocating for deeper, more individualized methods of cultural understanding
When analyzing tone in reading comprehension passages, you need to identify the author's attitude toward their subject by examining both their word choices and the balance of their argument.
The author clearly criticizes current cultural competency training, using phrases like "falls short of meaningful change" and describing approaches as "superficial" that "perpetuate stereotypes." However, this criticism is constructive rather than dismissive—the author immediately offers solutions like "genuine cultural inquiry" and "developing ongoing relationships with diverse communities." This balanced approach of critique followed by substantive recommendations indicates a constructively critical tone that advocates for improvement rather than abandonment of cultural competency efforts.
Answer B is wrong because the author never suggests a "colorblind" approach or hostility toward addressing cultural differences—they actually want more meaningful engagement with culture. Answer C misses the extensive criticism throughout the passage; the author is clearly not "enthusiastically supportive" of current methods. Answer D incorrectly characterizes the tone as "neutral"—the author takes a very clear position against superficial training and strongly advocates for specific alternatives.
The key word in answer A is "constructively"—this captures how the author balances criticism with practical solutions, showing they want to improve rather than eliminate cultural competency training.
For HESI reading questions about tone, look for the balance between criticism and solutions. Authors who offer specific improvements typically have a constructively critical tone, while those who only tear down without building up tend toward purely negative tones.
- Which of the following best describes the author's purpose?
Answer: To identify a problem and advocate for specific systemic solutions
When you encounter reading comprehension questions asking about an author's purpose, look for the overall intent behind the passage rather than getting caught up in individual details or examples mentioned along the way.
This passage follows a classic problem-solution structure. The author begins by identifying nurse burnout as an "epidemic" with serious consequences, then transitions to advocating for "meaningful solutions" including specific systemic changes like enforcing safe nurse-to-patient ratios and providing mental health support. The phrase "hospitals and healthcare systems must move beyond superficial wellness initiatives" clearly signals the author's advocacy stance, pushing for concrete action rather than just describing a problem.
Choice C correctly captures this dual purpose: identifying the problem (nurse burnout and its impacts) while advocating for specific systemic solutions (the detailed recommendations in the final sentence).
Choice A is too narrow—while the passage mentions nurses' experiences, it doesn't focus on a single individual's story but rather addresses the broader issue affecting the profession. Choice B misses the advocacy element entirely; the author goes far beyond academic definition to push for change. Choice D is incorrect because the passage never compares nurses to other medical professionals—it focuses exclusively on the nursing profession.
For HESI reading questions about author's purpose, look for action words like "must," "should," or "need to" that signal advocacy, and pay attention to passage structure. Authors who present problems followed by solutions are typically advocating for change, not just informing or describing.
- What is the main purpose of this passage?
Answer: To provide a concise overview of the functions of the integumentary system
When you encounter a reading comprehension question asking about the "main purpose" of a passage, you're being tested on your ability to identify the author's primary intent rather than getting caught up in supporting details or making assumptions beyond what's written.
This passage systematically presents the integumentary system's key functions: physical protection ("first line of defense"), thermoregulation ("sweat production and blood flow regulation"), and sensory detection ("touch, pressure, temperature, and pain"). The author provides a comprehensive but concise overview without advocating for any particular action or making comparisons. The structure moves logically from identifying the system's components to explaining its multiple roles, concluding with why it's essential for survival.
Choice A is incorrect because the passage is purely informational—there's no persuasive language or calls to action about skincare. Choice B fails because the passage focuses exclusively on humans without mentioning other animals or making any comparisons. Choice D is wrong because the passage doesn't discuss diseases at all; it only describes normal, healthy functions of the integumentary system.
Choice C correctly identifies that the passage serves as an educational overview, presenting the integumentary system's structure and functions in a clear, organized manner.
Study tip: On HESI reading questions about author's purpose, distinguish between informative passages (which teach or explain) and persuasive passages (which argue or recommend action). Look for signal words—informative passages use neutral, descriptive language, while persuasive passages include opinion words and calls to action.
- The author's primary purpose in this passage is to:
Answer: Advocate for immediate and comprehensive measures to address a critical healthcare crisis through multiple coordinated interventions
The author's primary purpose is to advocate for urgent, coordinated action to combat antibiotic resistance. The passage presents the problem comprehensively and concludes with a clear call for 'immediate, coordinated global action.' Choice B is incorrect because the passage is persuasive rather than purely informational and lacks historical balance. Choice C is incorrect because while the author mentions various contributing factors, the main purpose is advocacy for solutions, not criticism. Choice D is incorrect because the passage focuses on causes and solutions rather than scientific mechanisms of resistance.
- The author's tone concerning CRISPR technology can be described as:
Answer: Awed but also concerned
When you encounter tone questions on reading comprehension, you need to identify the author's overall attitude by examining both positive and negative language throughout the passage, not just isolated phrases.
The correct answer is D because the author expresses genuine admiration for CRISPR's potential while simultaneously voicing serious concerns. The passage opens by calling CRISPR a "monumental leap" with "staggering" applications for treating diseases and improving crops - this shows clear awe and respect for the technology. However, the author immediately shifts to discussing "profound ethical questions," "complex moral dilemmas," and warns about "the peril of hubris." The final metaphor of standing "at a crossroads" where "promise" is "intertwined" with "peril" perfectly captures this dual perspective of wonder mixed with worry.
Choice A is wrong because the author isn't uniformly celebratory - half the passage focuses on serious ethical concerns and potential dangers. Choice B incorrectly suggests the tone is only negative, ignoring the author's clear appreciation for CRISPR's medical and agricultural benefits. Choice C is completely off-base since the author never dismisses the technology; instead, they acknowledge its revolutionary potential while raising important cautions.
For HESI reading questions about tone, look for balance words like "however," "but," and "while" that signal the author is presenting multiple perspectives. Authors discussing cutting-edge scientific topics often adopt this nuanced tone - excited about possibilities but mindful of risks. Don't get trapped by passages that seem purely positive or negative at first glance.
- What is the author's primary purpose?
Answer: To call for a more rational and evidence-based debate on healthcare
When you encounter reading comprehension questions about an author's purpose, look for the overall tone and main message rather than getting caught up in specific details or examples mentioned in the passage.
The author presents both sides of the healthcare debate fairly—acknowledging that opponents raise "valid areas for discussion" about single-payer systems while also noting potential benefits. The key phrase that reveals the author's true purpose comes at the end: calling for a "truly productive conversation" that moves "beyond ideological talking points" toward "data-driven analysis." This balanced approach and explicit call for evidence-based discussion points directly to answer C.
Looking at the incorrect options: Answer A is wrong because the author doesn't argue strongly for single-payer systems—they simply mention potential benefits while also acknowledging valid concerns. Answer B misses the mark entirely since the author actually suggests examining "how different models have performed in other developed nations," implying we should learn from them, not condemn them. Answer D incorrectly assumes the author wants to prove single-payer systems fail, when they're actually calling for objective analysis rather than predetermined conclusions.
The author maintains neutrality throughout, presenting arguments from both sides before advocating for a more rational, evidence-based approach to the entire debate.
HESI tip: When identifying an author's purpose, pay special attention to concluding statements and transition phrases like "truly productive" or "would move beyond"—these often signal the author's main intent, which may be different from the topics they discuss as examples.
- The author's purpose in describing the midnight ICU shift is to:
Answer: Illuminate the profound, often invisible dedication of night shift workers and the sacred nature of their service
When analyzing an author's purpose in a descriptive passage, look for the tone, word choice, and overall message the writer wants to convey. This passage uses reverent, almost spiritual language to describe the night shift ICU environment.
The correct answer is D because the author consistently emphasizes the profound nature of this work through carefully chosen descriptive language. Words like "sacred," "dedication that goes largely unseen and unrecognized," and "quiet precision that speaks to years of experience" reveal the author's intent to honor and illuminate the meaningful but often invisible work happening during these overnight hours. The passage focuses on the human elements—nurses offering comfort through presence, families maintaining vigils, and the "small community" caring for the vulnerable.
Answer A is incorrect because while technical aspects are mentioned (monitors, alerts), they serve as background rather than the focus. The author doesn't delve into medical complexities or challenges. Answer B is wrong because no comparison is made between night and day shifts—the passage only describes the unique qualities of the midnight shift without contrasting it to daytime operations. Answer C misses the mark because although the passage mentions work going "unrecognized," the author's primary purpose isn't advocacy for better conditions but rather illuminating the existing dignity and meaning in this work.
On HESI reading questions about author's purpose, pay attention to descriptive language and emotional tone rather than just surface content. The author's word choices often reveal their deeper intent beyond simply conveying information.
