Read Each Paragraph Below and Answer the Questions That Follow

question 27

Multiple Choice

Read each paragraph below and answer the questions that follow it.
(1) Readers now can obtain most books in either traditional printed form or electronic, e-book, form. (2) These two options differ in several ways. (3) The first difference is their portability. (4) Traditional printed texts can be bulky and heavy to lug around, especially when the reader wants to carry several books at one time. (5) E-books, on the other hand, are stored digitally in a slim, lightweight e-reader device such as a Kindle or iPad, so it's much easier for readers to transport multiple books. (6) However, unlike print books, e-books are not suitable for places like the beach or the bathtub, where e-reader devices could be damaged by water. (7) Another difference between printed books and e-books is their price. (8) Paper-and-ink books are usually more expensive because of the costs involved in printing, storing, and distributing them. (9) In contrast, e-books are delivered digitally, so they cost less. (10) A new book that's sold in print form for $24.99 will typically cost only $9.99 in e-book form. (11) A third difference between print books and e-books is readability. (12) Printed books, of course, can be read just about anywhere, but e-books are often difficult to see in brighter light outdoors. (13) Finally, the two options differ in terms of the reading experience they provide. (14) Despite the advantages of e-books, many readers still prefer the sensory pleasures of holding and turning the pages of a printed book, which are missing when reading a text on a screen. (15) Because the pagination of e-book texts differs from those of print texts, it's difficult to refer to specific page numbers during a class or book club meeting.
-Which of the following is NOT a transitional expression used in the paragraph to indicate comparison or contrast?

• A) on the other hand
• B) however
• C) in contrast
• D) of course

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Definitions:

Supply Chain

The entire system of producing and delivering a product or service, from the initial sourcing of materials to the delivery to consumers.

Response Time

The duration taken to react or respond to a request, requirement, or stimulus, crucial in customer service and operational efficiency.

Order Visibility

The ability to track and monitor the progress of orders throughout the supply chain, from placement to delivery.

Time To Market

The duration from the initial concept of a product to its official launch in the market, reflecting a company's efficiency in developing and launching new products.