Question

The widespread adoption of smartphones has revolutionized communication and access to information. Smartphones provide users with instant connectivity and a plethora of apps for various purposes. However, they have also been linked to negative effects such as decreased attention spans and increased screen time, which can impact mental health.
According to the passage, what is one negative effect of smartphones?

• A. They improve attention spans.
• B. They limit access to information.
• C. They increase screen time.
• D. They reduce connectivity.

Hint:

Look for contrast words like “however” to identify where the author shifts from benefits to drawbacks — this is often where the correct answer is found.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The passage presents both the positive and negative effects of smartphones. On the positive side, it mentions:
- Smartphones have revolutionized communication,
- They offer instant connectivity, and
- Provide access to many apps for various uses, improving access to information.
The passage then transitions to the negative effects using the word “however,” stating that smartphones are associated with:
- Decreased attention spans, and
- Increased screen time, which may negatively affect mental health.
Therefore, Option C is correct because the passage directly identifies increased screen time as a negative effect of smartphone usage.
Let’s rule out the other choices:
- Option A is incorrect because the passage clearly says smartphones decrease attention spans — the opposite of what’s stated.
- Option B is wrong; smartphones actually increase access to information, not limit it.
- Option D is also incorrect, as smartphones enhance connectivity, not reduce it — this is described as a benefit in the passage.