New SAT Writing and Language Practice Test 3

Coworking: A Creative Solution

When I left my office job as a website developer at a small company for a position that allowed me to work full-time from home, I thought I had it made: I gleefully traded in my suits and dress shoes for sweatpants and slippers, my frantic early-morning bagged lunch packing for a leisurely midday trip to my refrigerator. The novelty of this comfortable work-from-home life, however, _soon got worn _Q23 off quickly. Within a month, I found myself feeling isolated despite having frequent email and instant messaging contact with my colleagues. Having become frustrated trying to solve difficult problems, _no colleagues were nearby to share ideas. _Q24 It was during this time that I read an article into Q25 coworking spaces.

The article, published by Forbes magazine, explained that coworking spaces are designated locations that, for a fee, individuals can use to conduct their work. The spaces are usually stocked with standard office _equipment, such as _Q26 photocopiers, printers, and fax machines. _In these locations, however, _Q27 the spaces often include small meeting areas and larger rooms for hosting presentations. _The cost of launching a new coworking business in the United States is estimated to be approximately $58,000. _Q28

What most caught my interest, though, was a quotation from someone who described coworking spaces as “melting pots of creativity.” The article refers to a 2012 survey in which _64 percent of respondents noted that coworking spaces prevented them from completing tasks in a given time._Q29

The article goes on to suggest that the most valuable resources provided by coworking spaces are actually the people _whom use _Q30 them.[1] Thus, even though I already had all the equipment I needed in my home office, I decided to try using a coworking space in my city. [2] Because I was specifically interested in coworking’s reported benefits related to creativity, I chose a facility that offered a bright, open work area where I wouldn’t be isolated. [3] Throughout the morning, more people appeared. [4] Periods of quiet, during which everyone worked independently, were broken up occasionally with lively conversation. Q31
I liked the experience so much that I now go to the coworking space a few times a week. Over time, I’ve gotten to know several of my coworking _colleagues_: Q32 another website developer, a graphic designer, a freelance writer, and several mobile app coders. Even those of us who work in disparate fields are able to _share advice _Q33 and help each other brainstorm. In fact, it’s the diversity of their talents and experiences that makes my coworking colleagues so valuable.