A.

• Scan the paragraph quickly.
• Predict the main idea.
• Read the paragraph carefully.
• Underline words or phrases related to the main idea.

“In the early days of ranching on the prairies there were no fences. All the cattle ran together, and there was no way to tell for sure what animal belonged to which rancher. Painted brands were tried but they either were shed or rubbed off A scar on the skin by a red-hot iron proved to be the best solution. This method of branding is still used today.”

Adapted from, Intermediate English Skills Development Series Book 3, 3A Main Idea