Analysis of text structure

The author analyzes the underlying reasons why people are reluctant to let options go, using various writing methods such as cause and effect.

Part one (paras. 1-3)

When facing choices of rival options, think about what Xiang Yu would do.

Part Two (para. 4)

A transition from the ancient story of Xiang Yu to the modern story of the students at MIT. Dr. Ariely found that many students in his experiment just couldn’t bear to see their options vanish though they knew it would benefit them to let go.

Part Three (paras. 5-9)

This part focuses on the experiment conducted by Dr. Ariely.

Dr. Ariely points out the real cause of the students’ irrational behavior and he emphasizes that in life the doors are actually closing slowly and we don’t see our future opportunities vanishing away.

Part Four (paras. 10-12)

This part suggests how we can balance our lives by reducing unnecessary options.

Part Five (paras. 13-14) 

 Is more better than less? --We should close certain doors in order to allow the right windows of opportunity and happiness to open.