Question

Read the excerpt from Hidden Figures.

Whether or not a woman was promoted, if she was given a raise, if she had access to the smoky sessions where the future was being conceived and built, had much to do with the prejudices and predilections of the men she worked for.

Which statement best paraphrases this excerpt?

Decisions about whether a woman was promoted, paid more money, or allowed access to important meetings were based mostly on the prejudices and whims of her male managers.

Whether or not a woman got a better position, was paid more money, or had access to the smoky sessions where important decisions were made about the future depended on the prejudices and opinions of the men she worked for.

Regardless of whether or not a woman was promoted, paid more money, or allowed to attend important meetings, she still faced discrimination from the men she worked for.

Promotions, raises, and access to important meetings were granted to women only if the men in charge were able to overcome their own biases.

Answer 1

The statement that best paraphrases the excerpt is:

Decisions about whether a woman was promoted, paid more money, or allowed access to important meetings were based mostly on the prejudices and whims of her male managers.

This statement accurately captures the main idea of the excerpt, which is that a woman's career opportunities were largely influenced by the biases and preferences of the men she worked for. The other options do not accurately capture the main idea of the excerpt.