ASVAB · Main Idea and Theme

Read: 'Sleep deprivation impairs cognitive function as severely as alcohol intoxication. Studies show 24 hours without sleep produces impairment equivalent to a 0.10% BAC. Yet soldiers often operate on significantly less than 8 hours. Training for sleep-limited performance is as important as physical fitness training.' What is the MAIN IDEA?

Correct answer

Sleep deprivation is dangerous and deserves training attention comparable to physical fitness

  1. A Alcohol impairs soldiers
  2. B Sleep deprivation is dangerous and deserves training attention comparable to physical fitness
  3. C Soldiers should sleep 8 hours always
  4. D Studies on BAC are unreliable

Why this is the answer

The passage builds an argument: sleep deprivation is severely impairing (stated with specific comparison) → soldiers face it regularly → therefore, training for it matters. The main idea connects the problem (severe impairment) to the practical recommendation (train for it like physical fitness). Option A is a supporting analogy, not the main point. Option C is oversimplified and not the passage's conclusion. Option D contradicts the passage. The main idea must capture both the problem AND the response the author advocates.
Source: ASVAB PC, Military/Health Main Idea

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