The voltage reading is obtained by connecting a(n):

The correct answer is related to the function of different electrical measuring instruments. A voltmeter is specifically designed to measure the potential difference, or voltage, across two points in an electric circuit. It is connected in parallel with the component where the voltage is to be measured, allowing it to provide an accurate reading of the electrical potential without significantly affecting the circuit.

In contrast, an ammeter measures the current flowing through a circuit and is designed to connect in series. A shunt is not a measuring device itself but is used with ammeters to measure high currents by allowing only a small portion of the current to pass through the meter. A tap arrangement typically refers to a method of extracting power or measuring signals from a point in a circuit but does not function as a dedicated voltage measuring instrument.

Thus, when tasked with obtaining a voltage reading, the voltmeter is evidently the correct choice due to its purpose and operational principles.