How does knowing the author's purpose enhance reading comprehension?

Understanding the author's purpose significantly enhances reading comprehension by providing context to the arguments and messages conveyed. When readers grasp why the author wrote the piece—whether to inform, persuade, entertain, or express an opinion—they can better interpret the nuances of the text. This understanding allows them to evaluate the effectiveness of the author's strategies, recognize biases, and appreciate the overall message more deeply. Context helps in linking ideas and themes within the text, leading to a more thorough analysis and synthesis of information, which ultimately enriches the reading experience.