Which term refers to the reason behind writing and the writer's goal?

• A. Mood
• B. Purpose
• C. Tone
• D. Skim

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is understanding the writer’s purpose—the reason behind writing and the goal the author wants to achieve. This drives what the text includes, how it’s organized, and the language the writer uses to reach the reader. If the aim is to inform, the piece presents clear facts and explanations. If the aim is to persuade, it highlights evidence and appeals designed to influence beliefs or actions. If the aim is to entertain, the focus is on engaging storytelling, imagery, or humor. Mood and tone describe the reader’s emotional experience and the author’s attitude, not the overall aim, while skim is just a quick-reading method to get the gist, not the writer’s objective.