Connect a cause to its effect
When a question asks why something happens, find the cause and the result. Words such as 'because', 'so', and 'therefore' can show the connection. The reason may also be in the next sentence.
Keep the direction clear: a cause produces a result. Two events happening one after another is not enough by itself. Look for the explanation the writer actually gives.
Boxes were blocking the entrance, so deliveries moved to the side door. Staff added a sign there after lunch.
A worked example
Why did deliveries move to the side door?
Boxes blocked the entrance.
The blockage caused the change of door. The sign was added later; it did not cause deliveries to move.
Boxes were blocking the entrance, so deliveries moved to the side door. Staff added a sign there after lunch.
Your turn
Read this short text, then answer the question below.
A label had covered the scanner's window. The covered window prevented it from reading barcodes. Once Ana removed the label, the scanner read them again. She updated the delivery list afterward.
Try it
Why had the scanner stopped reading barcodes?
- A label covered the scanner's window.
- Ana had removed the label.
Show the answer
A label covered the scanner's window.
The text directly connects the covered window with the scanner's failure to read barcodes.
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Practice Reading comprehension