DTW GED PREP

When reading fiction, it’s important to recognize the traits—the qualities and personality features—of each character. The author may tell you directly what someone is like (for example, “She was elegant”), or you may have to infer it by looking at the character’s actions, appearance, or what others say about them.

On the GED® test, you’ll often be asked to choose which word or phrase best describes a character—or to pick a sentence that shows what a character is like.

Example 1: From The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

The young woman was tall and had a graceful, striking figure. Her dark hair was thick and shiny, catching the sunlight like a mirror. Her face was not just beautiful because of its clear features and glowing skin—it had a powerful expression, with bold eyebrows and deep black eyes.

She carried herself like a lady in the old-fashioned sense—dignified and proud, not soft or delicate the way modern elegance is often described. Hester Prynne had never looked more like a true lady than when she walked out of the prison.

People who knew her before were surprised. They thought her time in prison would leave her looking tired and defeated. But instead, her beauty stood out even more. It seemed to glow through the shame and punishment she had been given. For some, it was even painful to look at her.

She had made the dress herself in prison, and its bold, artistic style showed her emotional state—strong, fearless, and not afraid to stand out.

Question:

How does the author describe Hester Prynne?

A. Plain and boring in appearance
B. Elegant, proud, and strong
C. Flirty and playful
D. Shy and quiet

Answer:

✔ Correct Answer: B. Elegant, proud, and strong

The author clearly describes Hester as elegant and dignified. Words like “graceful,” “lady-like,” and “a halo of beauty” show that she stood tall and proud, even after her punishment. The way she dressed also revealed her bold and determined personality. So, option B best matches how the author wants us to see her.

.

Example 2: From Babbitt by Sinclair Lewis

George F. Babbitt was a 46-year-old man living in the city of Zenith in 1920. He didn’t make products like food or clothing or write poetry. Instead, he made a living selling houses—often for more than people could really afford.

As he looked out at his yard, he felt pleased. The yard was neat and perfect, just like he thought a successful businessman’s yard should be. That made him feel perfect too. He looked at his metal garage and thought, “That old tin shed doesn’t match the rest of the house. I really need to build a new one.” Still, he was proud that everything else was modern and well-kept.

While looking at his yard, Babbitt imagined building a community garage for a new housing project he was working on. Suddenly, he stood straighter and looked more serious. In that moment, he felt confident—like someone important, someone who could take charge and get results.

Question:

Which part of the passage shows that George Babbitt is focused on material things?

A. He didn’t make anything himself—no products or art.
B. He had a tired face when he woke up.
C. He thought his perfect yard made him perfect.
D. He felt confident and ready to take charge.

Answer:

✔ Correct Answer: C. He thought his perfect yard made him perfect.

This line shows how much Babbitt connects his self-worth to his possessions. He looks at his clean yard and believes it proves he’s successful and perfect. That’s a clear sign he’s materialistic—he sees objects, like his yard and garage, as symbols of his personal value.

The other choices don’t show this same focus on material wealth.

• A just describes his job.
• B is about how he looks.
• D shows his confidence, but not materialism.