What does addressing the reader typically aim to accomplish?

• A. To create a formal tone
• B. To engage the reader directly and personally
• C. To obscure meaning in the text
• D. To summarize key points

Answer: (B)

Addressing the reader typically aims to engage them directly and personally. This technique creates a connection between the writer and the audience, fostering a sense of involvement and investment in the content being presented. By speaking directly to the reader, the writer can invite them into the narrative or argument, prompting them to consider their own thoughts, experiences, and emotions in relation to the material.

When a text addresses the reader, it often encourages a more interactive reading experience, making the audience feel as though they are part of a conversation rather than passive consumers of information. This can enhance comprehension and retention of the material, as personal engagement often leads to deeper understanding and reflection.

In contrast, creating a formal tone, obscuring meaning, or summarizing key points are not the primary objectives of addressing the reader. While these elements may have their place in writing, they do not capture the essence of direct address, which focuses primarily on fostering personal engagement with the audience.