VOCABULARY — Choose the best synonym (same meaning) of the highlighted word, based on the sentence. Sentence: “Everybody likes him because he is an INDUSTRIOUS student.”

Introduction / Context:
“Industrious” is a trait word for someone who works hard consistently and conscientiously. In academic contexts, it highlights steady effort rather than natural brilliance. The task is to pick the synonym that most precisely conveys steady, careful hard work.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The subject is a student admired for work ethic.
• We need a word that stresses persistence and careful effort.
• Avoid words that only suggest speed, talent, or general positivity.

Concept / Approach:
“Diligent” means steady, earnest, and energetic effort, especially in a careful, methodical way—this is the closest to “industrious.” “Energetic” suggests high energy, not necessarily focused work. “Prompt” concerns speed or punctuality. “Excellent” evaluates quality or ability, not effort.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Clarify the target: industrious = hardworking and conscientious.2) Compare candidates: “diligent” uniquely encodes sustained, careful effort.3) Substitute test: “he is a diligent student” preserves the sense perfectly.4) Discard distractors that shift focus to speed, energy, or talent alone.

Verification / Alternative check:
Dictionary pairings commonly list industrious ↔ diligent, reinforcing that this is the standard synonym pair in exam usage.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A) “energetic” — energy level, not necessarily productive, careful work.B) “prompt” — timing or quick response, different axis.C) “excellent” — quality of output, not work ethic.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating “busy” or “energetic” with disciplined, consistent effort. Industriousness implies diligence, not just activity.

Final Answer:
diligent