The purpose of fasting on Wednesdays is specifically to encourage the eating of fish, to support the fishing industry. People therefore respond differently. Some households uphold the old religious fasts during Advent and Lent, as if they are still observing the religious law; others ignore Advent but observe the Lenten fast. Still others ignore Wednesdays and just fast on Fridays and Saturdays. Why does the author use third-person point of view in this excerpt?
a) The author wants to present factual information effectively.
b) The author wants to draw the reader deeper into the experience.
c) The author wants to directly address the audience.
d) The author wants to persuade the reader of his idea.

a) The author wants to present factual information effectively.

Explanation:

The purpose of the author using third person point of view in this excerpt is to present factual information effectively to this reader. Every details were provided to get a clear point or clarity on the purpose of fasting. by using the third person point of view in this excerpt, the author is drawing us into what is happening in the story by relating all the facts

There are three type of third person point of view namely limited, objective and omniscient. A third person point of view  can be all knowing or limited in the description

The author explained by drawing out the fact on the purpose of fasting on Wednesdays which specifically to encourage the eating of fish and to support the fishing industry.

He also point out another fact on the people response to the fasting based on their difference and perspective

you didn't show the passage, so unfortunately i cant you.

a. conversing outside

explanation:

conversing outside is an example of a communication style.

i hope this you, and have a wonderful day!