SAT English Practice Question

The following passage is from a nonfiction book about the life of a famous scientist. The author has studied the scientist’s work and has interviewed people who knew the scientist personally. "My friend was a man of contradictions. He was a brilliant and creative thinker, yet he was also very shy and retiring. He was a tireless worker, yet he was also a perfectionist who often struggled to complete his projects. He was a kind and compassionate person, yet he was also fiercely independent and often difficult to work with. He was a truly remarkable man, and I am grateful to have known him." How does the author’s statement in the passage about the scientist’s personality relate to the author’s overall purpose in the passage?

1. A.persuade the reader to accept the author’s interpretation of the scientist.
2. B.provide a personal portrait of the scientist, revealing his complex nature.
3. C.emphasize the importance of the scientist’s scientific achievements.
4. D.explain the scientist’s impact on the field of science.