When a passage includes statistics, what should you pay attention to?

Focusing on how the statistics support the author's argument or point is vital because statistics are often included to bolster the claims being made. Understanding the context in which the statistics are presented allows readers to assess their relevance and impact on the overall message. For instance, if an author uses statistics to demonstrate a trend, recognizing how those figures align with or enhance the argument can deepen comprehension and critical analysis of the text.

While aspects like how statistics are cited, their source, and their recency are important and contribute to evaluating credibility, they primarily serve as supporting elements rather than the main focus in interpreting the passage's argument. Therefore, emphasizing how the statistics function within the context of the author's reasoning provides a more comprehensive understanding of the material.