Free SAT Practice Question

Question 1 of 1
ID: SAT-RW-II-004
Section: SAT Reading & Writing (RW) – Information and Ideas
Topic: Inferences
Difficulty level: Medium

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In a study exploring behavioral rigidity in animals, researchers observed the foraging habits of raccoons, a species known for its adaptability. When presented with puzzle boxes that dispensed food only after specific levers were manipulated in a particular sequence, raccoons initially struggled, but eventually learned the correct sequence. However, once the mechanism was subtly altered—requiring a different order—the raccoons persisted in using the original strategy, even when it no longer resulted in food. This behavior was consistent across multiple individuals, suggesting that ____________.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

Araccoons are capable of using trial and error to solve novel problems, but are less flexible when previously learned strategies must be abandoned.

Bspecies with relatively high cognitive abilities are more likely to be successful when they rely on instinct rather than learned behavior.

Cthe ability of raccoons to persist in a task despite a lack of immediate reward is likely rooted in their evolutionary history as opportunistic foragers.

Draccoons are less likely to develop any problem-solving strategies if a task requires multiple steps and consistent human interaction.

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