Cadet Competition Written Practice Exam

What is the process of examining and analyzing a writer's message called?

1. Summary writing

2. Critical reading

3. Comprehension analysis

4. Descriptive writing

The correct answer is: Critical reading

The process of examining and analyzing a writer's message is known as critical reading. This skill involves engaging actively with the text, which goes beyond simply understanding the content. Critical reading requires a reader to evaluate the arguments, assess the validity of the evidence presented, and recognize any biases or underlying assumptions made by the author. It encourages the reader to ask questions, make connections to broader contexts, and think deeply about the implications of the message. This analytical approach helps to develop a more nuanced understanding of the text and to identify the effectiveness of the writer’s strategy in conveying their ideas. In contrast, summary writing focuses on briefly restating the main points of a text without delving into analysis, while comprehension analysis may involve understanding the text but does not typically capture the depth of critical evaluation necessary to discern the writer's methods and intentions. Descriptive writing centers on providing detailed descriptions rather than analyzing or interpreting a writer's message.