Command of Evidence SAT question

Choice C is the best answer because it most effectively uses data from the graph to complete the statement about average rainfall in September in select Puerto Rican cities. The graph shows that between 1981 and 2010 Rincón, Ponce, and Isabela all had an average rainfall during the month of September of about 6 inches, and San Sebastián had an average rainfall of nearly 11 inches. Describing the average September rainfall of Rincón, Ponce, and Isabela as below 8 inches and the average September rainfall of San Sebastián as greater than 8 inches therefore offers an accurate description of the data in the graph and most effectively completes the statement.

Choice A is incorrect because it offers an inaccurate interpretation of the data in the graph. The graph shows that in September, Rincón, Isabela, and Ponce all have an average rainfall of about 6 inches, and San Sebastián has an average rainfall of nearly 11 inches. Therefore, Rincón’s average rainfall is the same as, not greater than, that of Isabela and Ponce, and it is below, not greater than, that of San Sebastián. Choice B is incorrect because it inaccurately describes the data in the graph. In September, Rincón and Ponce have an average rainfall of about 6 inches, not 5 inches; Isabela has an average rainfall of about 6 inches, not 10 inches; and San Sebastián has an average rainfall of nearly 11 inches, not 10 inches. Choice D is incorrect because although the graph shows a similar average rainfall (about 6 inches) for Rincón and Isabela in September, it doesn’t show that Ponce has a similar average rainfall to San Sebastián during this month. In September, Ponce’s average rainfall is about 6 inches, whereas San Sebastián’s average rainfall is nearly 11 inches.