ACT Reading Section Practice

The main purpose of Chapter 2 is to:
A. explain why optimism is always misleading.
B. illustrate the importance of negative instructions in effective coaching.
C. recount a detailed game strategy from Knight’s career.
D. critique modern motivational speaking.

B

Knight’s emphasis on using words like “no” and “don’t” suggests that he believes:
A. fully positive language motivates athletes best.
B. negative language should replace all optimism.
C. discouragement helps team morale.
D. acknowledging limitations leads to better preparation.

D

Which anecdote supports the idea that understanding one’s limits is beneficial?
A. The story of Col. Earl Blaik and Pete Dawkins learning from their injury.
B. Dissecting a pivotal loss from a national championship.
C. A motivational quote from Knute Rockne.
D. A conversation with a radio sports analyst.

A

In the context of the chapter, when Knight criticizes clichés such as “the sun will come up tomorrow,” he is:
A. advocating total pessimism.
B. dismissing all hope in sports.
C. urging critical thinking over blind optimism.
D. promoting meteorology as a coaching tool.

C

The phrase “The ‘Shun’ Family’s Role in Decision Making” refers to words like:
A. hesitation, prevention, caution.
B. innovation, speed, aggression.
C. trust, teamwork, communication.
D. victory, ambition, glory.

A

In Chapter 2, negative thinking is most closely described as:
A. dwelling on failure without action.
B. abstaining from any positive language.
C. a tool to identify and correct mistakes.
D. an emotional substitute for discipline.

C

The comparison between basketball strategies and life decisions in this chapter functions to:
A. show that both fields depend purely on luck.
B. highlight how negative assessment aids planning in any domain.
C. suggest coaches should avoid life lessons.
D. argue that sports strategies don’t apply to real life.

B

Knight’s discussion of "evaluating success and letting go of failure" primarily illustrates:
A. the importance of celebrating more wins.
B. that failure is permanent if not forgotten.
C. pursuing only personal accolades.
D. adaptability and learning from past choices.

D

When Knight says competition is “dynamic,” he means that it:
A. is unpredictable and unchangeable.
B. requires constant preparation and strategy adjustment.
C. should be avoided due to inward pressure.
D. relies mostly on player personality.

B

In this chapter, self-awareness and humility are emphasized because they:
A. undermine confidence in tight games.
B. foster a reluctance to set high goals.
C. support ongoing improvement and growth.
D. encourage quitting when faced with tough competition.

C

What does Bob Knight identify as “the worst word in the English language”?
A. “Quit”
B. “Maybe”
C. “Failure”
D. “No”

B

Knight considers “maybe” to be harmful primarily because it:
A. shows a lack of vocabulary.
B. implies deception.
C. reflects indecision and a lack of commitment.
D. can lead to outright lies.

C

Knight supports his opinion about the word “maybe” by using:
A. a basketball game where “maybe” changed a referee’s call.
B. examples of coaches who were fired unexpectedly.
C. quotes from famous politicians about indecision.
D. stories of recruits and players who weren’t decisive.

D

In the chapter, what does Knight believe a person’s word should represent?
A. Their emotions and values.
B. Their ability to negotiate.
C. A firm and honest commitment.
D. A vague hope or intention.

C

The tone of Knight’s discussion about “maybe” can best be described as:
A. lighthearted and humorous.
B. harsh and accusatory.
C. confident and uncompromising.
D. uncertain but hopeful.

C

When Knight says people who say “maybe” are “giving themselves a way out,” he means they are:
A. failing to take responsibility.
B. being strategic in avoiding consequences.
C. wisely postponing hard decisions.
D. testing others’ patience.

A

What coaching principle does Knight reinforce by rejecting the use of “maybe”?
A. Celebrate unpredictability.
B. Never trust players.
C. Expect firm decisions and accountability.
D. Focus on speed over precision.

C

In context, what is the most accurate meaning of the word hedging, as Knight uses it to describe “maybe” behavior?
A. Planting barriers
B. Avoiding clear commitments
C. Playing defense
D. Seeking second opinions

B

What broader message does Knight convey through his criticism of “maybe”?
A. People should learn to say “no” more often.
B. Optimism is dangerous in competitive settings.
C. Language is always open to interpretation.
D. Integrity and decisiveness are essential in leadership and life.

D

Knight’s overall purpose in Chapter 3 is to:
A. argue that language reflects character and decision-making strength.
B. demonstrate how one word changed his coaching style.
C. humor readers with his dislike for casual conversation.
D. prove that motivational words are overrated in sports.

A