What explains the varied understanding of text between two proficient readers?

The correct choice highlights the fact that proficient readers can apply different reading comprehension skills, which leads to varied understanding of text. Comprehension is a multifaceted process; different skills contribute to how a reader engages with text. For instance, one reader might excel in summarizing main ideas, while another might be skilled at making connections between the text and their own experiences or in asking questions that deepen their understanding.

This variation can stem from a reader's focus on different aspects of comprehension, such as interpreting themes, analyzing character motivations, or identifying the author's purpose. Each of these skills enhances the reader's interaction with the text in unique ways, allowing them to derive different meanings and insights based on their strengths and approaches.

In the context of the other choices, while metacognitive strategies, literal vs. inferential understanding, and prior experiences are all relevant to how reading is processed, they converge under the broader banner of reading comprehension skills. The choice that emphasizes the application of diverse skills most directly addresses the underlying reasons for differences in text interpretation among proficient readers.