When asked to cite evidence, what should you do?

• A. Rely on memory of the text.
• B. Discuss background knowledge.
• C. Choose the option that directly references the text and explain its relevance.
• D. The option with the most complex vocabulary.

Answer: (C)

When you’re asked to cite evidence, your job is to point to exact parts of the text and explain how they back up your claim. The best choice is the one that directly references the text and then shows why that reference matters for your argument. You’d quote or name a precise detail from the passage and connect it to what you’re saying, making the link explicit. Relying on memory or on background knowledge doesn’t demonstrate how the text itself supports your point, and choosing an option for its fancy vocabulary doesn’t prove you’ve tied evidence to your claim. If helpful, you might briefly mention the context of the evidence and explain how that detail supports your conclusion.