An SAT micro-topic explainer. Free to read — no account needed.
Two sentences placed together always relate in some logical way. The second might explain the first, give a reason for it, contrast with it, illustrate it with an example, or state a conclusion drawn from it. Your job is to name what the second sentence does to the first.
Transition words are the clearest signal of the relationship. "However", "but", and "yet" signal a contrast. "For example" and "for instance" signal an example. "Therefore" and "so" signal a conclusion, and "because" signals a cause.
When there is no transition word, ask a simple question: is the second sentence adding the same kind of idea, or turning against it? If it agrees and expands, the relationship is explanation or example. If it pushes back, the relationship is contrast.
Reading for this relationship helps you choose the right transition or the right sentence to fill a blank. Match the logic: use a contrast word only when the ideas truly clash, and a conclusion word only when the second idea follows from the first.
Worked examples
What is the relationship between these two sentences? "In Brazil, Black and white communities were kept geographically apart. As a result, their musical traditions rarely blended." (A) The second sentence gives a result caused by the first. (B) The second sentence contradicts the first. The phrase "As a result" shows the second sentence states an effect of the separation described first. So (A) is correct: it is a cause-and-effect relationship.
What is the relationship between these two sentences? "Most scientists expected the drug to fail in humans. However, early trials showed clear improvement." (A) The second sentence adds another expected result. (B) The second sentence contrasts with the first. The word "However" signals that the outcome went against what was expected. So (B) is correct: the relationship is a contrast.
What is the relationship between these two sentences? "Maracas can produce a wide range of sounds. For instance, shaking them faster creates a sharper rattle." (A) The second sentence gives an example of the first. (B) The second sentence draws a conclusion from the first. The phrase "For instance" introduces a specific illustration of the general claim. So (A) is correct: the second sentence is an example.
Is this one of the topics costing you points?
Take the free 10-question diagnostic for a predicted SAT score and a breakdown of which domains are costing you points.