Tachs Reading Question of the Day

1. To entertain with surprising fictional statistics
2. To teach readers how to conduct surveys
3. To persuade employers to support audiobook access (correct answer)
4. To describe the history of recorded storytelling

Explanation: When you encounter questions asking why an author includes specific evidence or data, focus on the author's purpose and what they're trying to accomplish with that information. The survey data serves as concrete evidence to support the author's main argument. The passage presents factual findings—2,000 commuters, 15% lower stress levels—then immediately follows with a recommendation that "companies could boost employee well-being by partnering with digital libraries." This structure shows the author is building a persuasive case using the survey as proof that audiobooks reduce stress, leading to the logical conclusion that employers should provide audiobook access. The data functions as the foundation for this recommendation. Looking at the wrong answers: (A) is incorrect because these are presented as real survey results, not fictional entertainment. The specific numbers and formal survey methodology indicate serious research, not amusement. (B) misses the point entirely—the author uses survey results but never explains how to conduct surveys or discusses research methodology. (D) focuses on historical context that doesn't appear anywhere in the passage, which deals with current workplace benefits rather than the development of recorded storytelling. On TACHS reading questions about author's purpose, pay attention to the relationship between evidence and conclusions. Authors typically include data, statistics, or examples to support their main argument or persuade readers toward a specific viewpoint. Look for the "so what?" moment—what does the author want you to do or believe after presenting the evidence?