Which features do we frequently use to identify the issue?

• A. Contrast words, powerful phrases, italics, Some dude's name
• B. Dates, numbers, graphs, charts
• C. Headings only
• D. Captions

Answer: (A)

Spotting the issue in a passage relies on noticing cues that signal focus and contention. Contrast words like but, however, although show where a problem or point of disagreement is being highlighted, guiding you to what the author is treating as the issue. Powerful phrases or strong evaluative language draw attention to the stakes or the central problem being discussed. Italics emphasize key terms, helping you see which concept or issue the author wants you to prioritize. Naming a specific person or case provides a concrete example that embodies the problem, making the issue feel tangible rather than abstract.

These cues work best together because they directly point to what the writer is framing as the central concern and illustrate it with emphasis and a real-world reference. In contrast, dates, numbers, graphs, and charts mainly convey data or evidence rather than signaling the issue itself. Headings can guide you to broad topics but don’t necessarily reveal the exact issue being addressed. Captions offer descriptive context for visuals but aren’t consistently reliable in identifying the core problem on their own.

So, the combination of contrast language, strong evaluative phrasing, emphasis through italics, and a named example provides the clearest signals for identifying the issue.