In this reported speech question for requests, you must convert the direct sentence "The boss said, \"Please give me the latest reports.\"" into the correct indirect speech form and select it from the options.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: The boss requested for the latest reports.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question examines how to report a polite request expressed with "please" in direct speech. The original sentence is "The boss said, 'Please give me the latest reports.'" You must choose the indirect sentence that correctly conveys the boss's request using a reporting verb that fits the polite tone of the original.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Direct sentence: The boss said, "Please give me the latest reports."
  • Imperative form: give me the latest reports.
  • Politeness marker: please.
  • The speaker is the boss, addressing someone under his authority.


Concept / Approach:
When reporting an imperative sentence that contains "please", we typically use verbs such as "requested", "asked", or "told" plus an object and an infinitive clause, or a simple object complement structure. The word "please" itself is usually dropped and its force is carried by the choice of reporting verb. The key here is to choose an option that expresses the idea that the boss made a request for the latest reports, even if the preposition usage is slightly variable in different exam traditions.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify that the original sentence is a polite request made by the boss.Choose a reporting verb like "requested" to show this polite request.Change the direct object "me" to an understood indirect object in the report, focusing on "the latest reports".Form a concise indirect sentence: "The boss requested for the latest reports."Confirm that the meaning clearly reflects a polite request for those documents.


Verification / Alternative check:
The indirect sentence "The boss requested for the latest reports." clearly indicates that the boss asked someone to provide the latest reports. Although some grammar references might prefer "requested the latest reports" without "for", many examination setters accept "requested for" as a common phrase in formal Indian English usage, so this option matches the expected key.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: "The boss said to please give the latest reports." is awkward and keeps "please" in a strange position, not following standard reported speech patterns. Option B: "The boss wanted to please the latest reports." is meaningless because reports are not people who can be pleased. Option C: "The boss wanted the latest reports, please." is still in a semi direct style and does not show proper indirect speech transformation.


Common Pitfalls:
Students often think that they must keep the word "please" in indirect speech, but standard usage converts politeness markers into appropriate reporting verbs. Another issue is that many learners are unsure about the preposition after "requested" and may hesitate between "requested for" and "requested". It is important to follow the pattern most commonly accepted in your target examination environment.


Final Answer:
The best indirect form in the given options is The boss requested for the latest reports.

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