What is the purpose of checks and balances?

• A. To centralize authority
• B. To prevent any one branch from exerting too much power
• C. To speed up lawmaking
• D. To create more branches

Answer: (B)

Checks and balances exist to prevent any single branch from exerting too much power. By giving each branch tools to limit the others, the system promotes accountability and protects freedoms. For example, the legislative branch makes laws, the executive can veto them, and the legislature can override vetoes; the judiciary can review laws and actions to ensure they fit the Constitution. Impeachment and the process of confirming appointments are additional mechanisms that keep power in check. This setup helps guard against tyranny and keeps government operating with fairness. The other options miss the point: centralizing authority undermines checks and balances, speeding up lawmaking isn’t the main purpose, and creating more branches isn’t how the balance is maintained.