What is a close-reading analysis of a short excerpt to identify the main claim and the most compelling evidence?

• A. Skim the text and memorize quotes.
• B. Identify the longest sentence.
• C. Read for thesis, locate topic sentence, underline strong evidence, explain how it supports claim with commentary on language, style, and context.
• D. Count the number of words.

Answer: (C)

Close reading is about how a text makes its argument. You look for the main claim, identify the strongest evidence that supports that claim, and then explain how that evidence works, including how the language, style, and context help persuade the reader. The best approach guides you to read with an eye on thesis or central claim, pinpoint the topic sentence or main point, underline or note strong evidence, and then connect how that evidence supports the claim through commentary on how words choices, form, and the surrounding context shape meaning.

This is why the option that asks you to read for the thesis, locate the key evidence, and explain how it backs the claim with analysis of language, style, and context is the most effective. Skimming the text and memorizing quotes doesn’t build the argument or show how evidence supports the claim. Looking for the longest sentence isn’t inherently related to an argument. Counting words won’t illuminate how the text argues or what evidence actually supports the claim. The close-reading approach centers on constructing a clear, supported interpretation rather than surface features.