Advanced Topics
In a nutshell: Learn to figure out why an author writes and how their attitude shapes the passage.
## Discovering Why and How Authors Write
Every author writes with a purpose—maybe to inform, persuade, entertain, or express feelings. The tone is the author's attitude, like being serious, humorous, or excited.
### How to Identify Purpose
- Look for the main goal: Is the author teaching you something, trying to change your mind, or telling a story?
- Notice key words, facts, or opinions.
### How to Sense Tone
- Pay attention to word choices and sentence style.
- Ask yourself: "How does this passage make me feel?"
### Why It Matters
Knowing the purpose and tone helps you understand the "why" behind a passage and answer tricky SSAT questions.
#### Real-World Connection
Understanding purpose and tone helps you "read the room"—whether it's a serious news article or a funny story!
Examples
- A passage full of jokes and playful words probably has an entertaining tone.
- A text using lots of facts and data likely aims to inform.
Key terms
- Author's Purpose
- The reason an author writes a passage: to inform, persuade, entertain, or express.
- Tone
- The author's attitude or feeling toward the subject.