How can understanding the author's purpose enhance comprehension?

Understanding the author's purpose significantly enhances comprehension by providing context for the argument or narrative being presented. When readers recognize the intention behind a text—whether the author aims to inform, persuade, entertain, or express a particular viewpoint—they can better grasp the underlying message and evaluate the effectiveness of the arguments being made. This insight allows readers to engage more deeply with the material and interpret the subtleties in tone, style, and structure accordingly. Knowing the author's purpose also aids in predicting what information might be prioritized and the way in which it is likely to be presented, leading to a more informed and critical reading experience.

In contrast, the other options do not directly correlate with enhancing comprehension in the same way. While memorization, reading speed, and understanding the author's background can have some benefits, they do not specifically address how recognizing the author's intent can shape a reader's understanding of the text’s content and meaning.