What is the role of textual evidence in supporting your answers in the reading section?

• A. It validates responses by pointing to specific lines or phrases that justify the claim.
• B. It is optional.
• C. It should be avoided.
• D. It must be a paraphrase.

Answer: (A)

Textual evidence anchors your answer in the text by pointing to specific lines or phrases that justify your claim. In the reading section, your responses should be supported with concrete evidence from the passage, showing exactly where your interpretation comes from. Select a line, a quote, or a brief detail that directly supports what you’re saying, and then explain how it connects to your conclusion. This makes your reasoning transparent and helps others see why your answer is valid rather than just a personal opinion. You can use direct quotes or a concise paraphrase, but the crucial part is the link you make between the evidence and your claim. Keep the evidence relevant and integrate a short explanation of how it supports your point.