Question 1

Direct and indirect speech: choose the correct indirect version of Do you want some more chocolates asked my cousin.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your ability to change a direct question into indirect or reported speech. The original sentence is Do you want some more chocolates asked my cousin. We must choose the option that correctly reports this yes or no question while following the rules for tense change, pronoun change, and word order in indirect speech. Given Data / Assumptions: The speaker is my cousin, and the listener is me. The direct question is Do you want some more chocolates. The reporting verb is asked, which is suitable for a question. We treat the question as a past reporting situation, so backshift of tense applies. Concept / Approach: When we convert a yes or no question from direct to indirect speech, we change the auxiliary do or does structure into a clause introduced by whether or if, change the pronouns to match the new perspective, and usually backshift the present tense verb to past tense if the reporting verb is in the past. The word order in the reported clause becomes normal statement order subject then verb, not interrogative order. Here, you becomes I, want remains wanted after backshift, and the linking word whether or if introduces the reported question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Begin with the reporting clause My cousin asked me because asked is the correct reporting verb for a question. Step 2: Introduce the reported question with whether or if, since this is a yes or no type question. Step 3: Change the pronoun you to I, because the listener in the direct speech becomes the subject in the reported clause. Step 4: Backshift the present tense verb want to the past tense wanted because the reporting verb asked is in the past. Step 5: Keep the normal subject verb order and complete the sentence as My cousin asked me whether I wanted some more chocolates. Verification / Alternative check: We can check the structure against the standard rule: Subject plus asked plus object plus whether or if plus subject plus past tense verb. The sentence My cousin asked me whether I wanted some more chocolates follows this pattern exactly. There is no question mark, because the reported speech is now a statement clause, not a direct question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A My cousin asked me if I want some more chocolates keeps want in the present tense even though the reporting verb is in the past, so it breaks the rule of tense backshift in reported speech for most exam situations. Option B My cousin said to me that I wanted some more chocolates uses said to and that, which is not the normal pattern for reporting a question and also drops the interrogative nature of the original sentence. Option D My cousin told me that I should take some more chocolates changes the meaning from asking a question to giving advice or instruction, which is not faithful to the source sentence. Option E My cousin asked that did I want some more chocolates keeps the question word order and inserts that in an incorrect structure, which is grammatically wrong in reported speech. Common Pitfalls: Learners often forget to backshift tenses after a past reporting verb or they retain interrogative word order in the reported clause. Another typical mistake is using said instead of asked when reporting questions. To avoid these errors, always identify whether the original sentence is a statement or question, choose the correct reporting verb, and restructure the reported clause into normal statement order introduced by whether, if, or a wh word. Final Answer: The correct indirect version is My cousin asked me whether I wanted some more chocolates.

Question 2

Cloze passage on judiciary and democracy: fill the blank in An independent, able and upright judiciary is the hallmark of a free ____ country.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This blank is part of a passage discussing the role of the judiciary in a political system. The sentence reads An independent, able and upright judiciary is the hallmark of a free blank country. We must choose the word that best completes the phrase in a way that matches common political terminology and the idea of judicial independence. Given Data / Assumptions: The country is described as free, suggesting political freedom and rights. The sentence links this with an independent, able, and upright judiciary. Options include different forms of government or political descriptions, such as autocratic and democratic. Concept / Approach: In political science and civics, the phrase free and democratic country is a common and standard combination. It refers to a system in which citizens have political rights, elections are held, and the institutions of government, including the judiciary, operate independently and fairly. In contrast, autocratic and authoritarian countries typically do not have truly independent courts. Therefore, democratic is the only choice that harmonises with the phrase hallmark of a free country and the stress on an independent judiciary. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note that the sentence praises an independent, able and upright judiciary as a key feature of a free country. Step 2: Recall that a system with free elections, civil liberties, and rule of law is usually called a democratic country. Step 3: Compare this with the options and see that autocratic and authoritarian stand for systems where power is concentrated in one ruler or small elite, not where judicial independence is a hallmark. Step 4: Recognise that liberal by itself does not complete the phrase as naturally as free democratic country does. Step 5: Select democratic as the word that completes the well known phrase free democratic country. Verification / Alternative check: Civics textbooks often describe countries like India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic and emphasise that the independence of the judiciary is essential to maintain democracy. The expression free democratic country is very familiar in such discussions. This confirms that democratic is the intended word. Phrases like free autocratic country or free authoritarian country are contradictory because autocratic and authoritarian imply restrictions on freedoms. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A autocratic refers to a system where one ruler has absolute power, which is incompatible with the idea of a robust and independent judiciary protecting citizens rights. Option C liberal describes a general attitude or set of policies and can be used in different compounds, but the collocation free liberal country is not as standard or precise as free democratic country. Option D participative suggests involvement, but it is not a common label for a political system in this context and does not appear in the standard phrase. Option E authoritarian refers to strict obedience to authority and limited freedoms, again clashing with the word free, so it cannot be the correct answer. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may be tempted by liberal because it also evokes the idea of freedom. However, exam cloze passages rely heavily on common collocations and textbook phrases. When you see independent judiciary and hallmark of a free country together, democratic is the textbook answer. Remembering common political pairs such as democratic republic, constitutional democracy, and free democratic country helps in solving such questions quickly. Final Answer: The sentence should read An independent, able and upright judiciary is the hallmark of a free democratic country.

Question 3

Cloze passage on judicial appointments: fill the blank in therefore, the process of judicial appointment is of ____ importance.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This blank is the second one in the same passage about the judiciary and democracy. The sentence reads therefore, the process of judicial appointment is of blank importance. The context is emphasising how crucial an independent and upright judiciary is for a free democratic country, so the blank must be filled with a word that indicates high significance. Given Data / Assumptions: The passage stresses the role of an independent, able, and upright judiciary. The sentence begins with therefore, which signals a conclusion based on the earlier idea. The phrase of blank importance usually takes adjectives like great, prime, or vital when the importance is high. Concept / Approach: In formal English, of vital importance is a very common expression meaning extremely important or essential. Since the passage connects the quality of the judiciary with the health of a democratic system, it naturally concludes that the process of appointing judges is of vital importance. Other options either do not fit grammatically or convey the wrong degree of importance. Therefore, vital is the best and most idiomatic choice for the blank. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note the logical connector therefore, which indicates that the author is drawing a strong conclusion. Step 2: Understand that if the judiciary is essential for democracy, then how judges are appointed must be very significant. Step 3: Look at the phrase of blank importance and recall that of vital importance is a standard collocation for something extremely important. Step 4: Check whether vital fits smoothly: the process of judicial appointment is of vital importance. Step 5: Eliminate options that either do not form common phrases or contradict the logic of the passage. Verification / Alternative check: You can test the alternatives in the sentence. Of mere importance sounds odd because mere is usually used before a noun, as in a mere formality, and even then suggests something small or insignificant. Of social importance changes the meaning and narrows it unnecessarily. Of marginal importance means of little importance, which directly contradicts the thrust of the passage. Only of vital importance carries the strong positive emphasis that matches the tone of the text. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A mere implies only or just and often downplays importance, which is the opposite of what the author intends here. Option B mourn is not an adjective and does not fit grammatically in the phrase of mourn importance. Option C social shifts the focus from importance to a specific type of importance and does not capture the essential, core role of judicial appointments. Option E marginal suggests something unimportant or on the edge, again conflicting with the central role that judicial appointments play in a democratic system. Common Pitfalls: In cloze tests, many distractors sound plausible at first glance but do not match standard collocations. A good exam strategy is to read the entire phrase, not just the single word, and to recall common textbook expressions. Phrases like vital role, vital function, and of vital importance occur frequently in academic writing about constitutions and governance, so they are safe choices when the context stresses essential features. Final Answer: The correct completion is of vital importance, so the sentence reads therefore, the process of judicial appointment is of vital importance.

Question 4

Sentence ordering: choose the most logical order of P, Q, R, S in the paragraph about outsourcers, outsources, and the minimum guarantee clause.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is a jumbled paragraph question. Four labelled sentences P, Q, R, and S must be arranged in a logical order to form a coherent paragraph about business outsourcing and the minimum guarantee clause. The test checks your understanding of paragraph structure, logical flow, and use of linking expressions such as for one, this, and the trade refers to it. Given Data / Assumptions: R states that despite being the dominant partner, the outsourcer does not always have all the advantages. P mentions that few entrepreneurs are willing to take on a new outsource unless it comes with a guaranteed level of sales. S explains that the trade calls this the minimum guarantee clause and defines how the outsourcee is compensated. Q says that this clause acts as an incentive for outsources to be lax in developing the business. Concept / Approach: A coherent paragraph usually begins with a general statement, then moves to specific examples or explanations, and uses pronouns like this or it to refer back to previously introduced ideas. Here, R gives a broad statement contrasting the outsourcer s apparent dominance with the reality that not all advantages lie with them. P then offers one concrete reason for this by using the phrase for one. S explains the technical name and details of the arrangement mentioned in P. Finally, Q uses this to refer to the minimum guarantee clause described in S and states its effect on the outsourcee. This yields the order R P S Q. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify R as a suitable opening because it introduces the main idea that the outsourcer does not always have all the advantages. Step 2: See that P begins with For one, signalling that it is giving a first specific reason to support the general statement in R. Step 3: Notice that S refers to it as the minimum guarantee clause, where it clearly refers to the guarantee described in P. Step 4: Observe that Q starts with This invariably acts as an incentive, where This points to the minimum guarantee clause defined in S. Step 5: Put these steps together to get the sequence R P S Q. Verification / Alternative check: Reading the chosen order as a full paragraph confirms the logic: Despite being the dominant partner, the outsourcer does not always have all the advantages. For one, very few entrepreneurs are willing to take on a new outsource unless it comes with a guarantee of a certain level of sales. The trade refers to it as the minimum guarantee clause, which means that if an outsourcee is unable to reach an anticipated sales level, he will be compensated for the balance amount. This invariably acts as an incentive for outsources to be lax in developing the business. The pronoun references and the explanation flow smoothly, showing that the order is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A PRQS begins with P, but P uses For one, which presupposes an earlier general statement, so it cannot logically start the paragraph. Option B SPQR starts with S, which introduces it without a clear antecedent, making the reference confusing. Option C QSPR begins with Q and uses This without a prior explanation of what This refers to, so it lacks clarity. Option E RSQP places Q before P, again using This before the clause itself is defined in S or P. Common Pitfalls: Many candidates ignore small linking words such as for one, this, or it and focus only on content. However, these connectors are vital clues for paragraph ordering questions. Always check whether pronouns and reference words have clear antecedents in the proposed order. If a sentence uses this or it without a prior explanation, it is unlikely to be the opening line. Final Answer: The most logical order of the sentences is RPSQ.

Question 5

Voice change: choose the best passive form of the sentence Somebody told me that there had been a robbery in the jewellery exhibition.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This item tests your ability to convert an active voice sentence into passive voice while preserving meaning and tense. The original active sentence is Somebody told me that there had been a robbery in the jewellery exhibition. We must choose the passive form that keeps the correct tense and natural English usage. Given Data / Assumptions: The subject in the active voice is Somebody, which is vague and not important to the message. The indirect object is me, which will become the subject in the passive sentence. The that clause there had been a robbery in the jewellery exhibition describes the reported event in past perfect tense. We need a passive structure beginning with I was or similar, since the focus shifts to me. Concept / Approach: To change this sentence into passive voice, we move the indirect object me to subject position as I, use the appropriate form of be plus past participle of tell, and keep the that clause unchanged. Since the active verb told is in simple past, the passive auxiliary must be was, giving was told. The clause there had been a robbery remains in past perfect because it refers to an event earlier than the act of telling. It is not necessary to mention the agent somebody in the passive sentence. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the verb and objects in the active sentence: Somebody told me that there had been a robbery in the jewellery exhibition. Step 2: Move me to the subject position to form I as the new subject. Step 3: Convert told to its passive counterpart was told, by using was plus the past participle told. Step 4: Keep the that clause there had been a robbery in the jewellery exhibition unchanged because it describes the content of the information. Step 5: Combine everything into I was told that there had been a robbery in the jewellery exhibition. Verification / Alternative check: We can check the equivalence by rephrasing both sentences. The active sentence says that some unidentified person informed me about a robbery. The passive version I was told that there had been a robbery in the jewellery exhibition gives the same information but focuses on me as the receiver. The time relations are preserved because the telling happened in the past, and the robbery occurred before that, hence past perfect had been remains appropriate. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B I was told that there was a robbery in the jewellery exhibition changes the past perfect had been to simple past was, which slightly alters the time relationship and does not strictly match the original. Option C I was being told suggests a continuous action at some time, which does not reflect the simple completed act of telling in the original sentence. Option D It was told to me is an unnatural construction in English; we normally say I was told rather than it was told to me. Option E I had been told that there was a robbery reverses the time structure by using past perfect for told and simple past for the robbery, which changes the sequence of events. Common Pitfalls: Students often worry unnecessarily about carrying over the word somebody and try to create sentences such as I was told by somebody, which is grammatically possible but not required. In passive voice, especially in exam questions, we usually omit unknown or unimportant agents. Another common error is to disturb the tense inside the that clause when only the main verb is being passivised. Remember that when you change the voice of the reporting verb, the tense of the reported clause usually remains the same. Final Answer: The best passive form is I was told that there had been a robbery in the jewellery exhibition.

Question 6

Cloze passage on science and religion: fill the blank in The modes of action are ____ in science and religion.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question appears in a passage comparing science and religion. The sentence reads The modes of action are blank in science and religion. The next lines state that science relies on experiment, whereas religion is based on experience. We must choose the adjective that best captures this contrast between experimental and experiential approaches. Given Data / Assumptions: Science is described as relying on experiment. Religion is described as based on personal experience. The author is emphasising a contrast between two ways of understanding reality. The missing adjective describes the relation between the modes of action of science and religion. Concept / Approach: The conjunction whereas in the following sentence signals a strong contrast. Therefore, the blank before it should also highlight a difference. If science and religion act in very different ways, then we say their modes of action are different. Words like similar or identical would contradict the rest of the passage, which focuses on how they are not the same. Hence, different is the natural and logical choice. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note that the next sentence sets up a contrast between science and religion using the word whereas. Step 2: Understand that science relies on experiment, meaning controlled observation and testing. Step 3: See that religion is based on experience, meaning inner, personal, or spiritual awareness. Step 4: Conclude that these two modes of action are not the same but distinct. Step 5: Choose the word different to express that contrast directly. Verification / Alternative check: If we substitute different into the sentence, it reads The modes of action are different in science and religion. This is fully consistent with the explanatory sentences that follow. If we were to use similar or identical, the passage would become illogical, because it would first claim that their modes of action are the same and then immediately describe clear differences. Therefore, only different maintains the coherence of the passage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A similar suggests that the modes of action are largely the same, which contradicts the explicit contrast that follows. Option C equal and option E identical both imply complete sameness or equivalence, again clashing with the text s emphasis on difference. Option D relevant does not describe a relationship of sameness or difference at all and does not fit the phrase modes of action are relevant in science and religion. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates focus only on the word modes and think the question is about whether science and religion are relevant, equal, or similar in importance. However, cloze questions must be read in context. The key to solving this one lies in the following sentence with whereas, which clearly signals a contrast. Training yourself to always read at least one sentence before and after the blank is essential for success in such passages. Final Answer: The sentence should read The modes of action are different in science and religion.

Question 7

Sentence ordering: choose the correct sequence of P, Q, R, S in the paragraph about the Nobel Peace Prize for fighting sexual violence in war.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This jumbled paragraph question refers to a Nobel Peace Prize that honours efforts to end the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war. The first sentence S1 mentions that the United Nations recognised rape as a war crime and a constitutive act of genocide. The last sentence S6 notes that the two peace laureates come from different nations, showing how widespread the problem is. We must order the middle sentences P, Q, R, and S logically between S1 and S6. Given Data / Assumptions: P introduces this year s Nobel Peace Prize and states that it has been awarded to two exceptional individuals for their fight against sexual violence in war. Q describes Denis Mukwege, a doctor who treats rape survivors in the Democratic Republic of Congo. R introduces Nadia Murad as a survivor of sexual war crimes committed by a militant group against the Yazidis. S states that she now campaigns to bring those leaders before international courts. Concept / Approach: A well constructed paragraph often follows a pattern: general context, introduction of the main topic, description of supporting examples, and then a concluding observation. Here, after S1 sets the context about rape as a war crime, the paragraph should immediately introduce the specific Nobel Peace Prize in P. Then, it is natural to describe each of the two laureates in turn. Q gives details about Denis Mukwege, and R introduces Nadia Murad. S follows R naturally because it continues her story in the present, saying that she now campaigns tirelessly. This leads smoothly to S6, which draws a combined conclusion about both laureates. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that P explicitly refers to this year s Nobel Peace Prize and connects directly to the theme introduced in S1. Step 2: Place P immediately after S1 to explain who received the prize and why. Step 3: Note that Q begins with the full name Denis Mukwege and gives background about his work, so Q should come next as the first example. Step 4: Observe that R switches focus to Nadia Murad, describing her as a survivor of sexual war crimes. Step 5: Add S after R because it continues the story of Nadia Murad by explaining her present campaigning activity. Verification / Alternative check: Reading the middle part in the order P Q R S gives a smooth narrative: this year s prize, then the first laureate and his work, then the second laureate and her experience, and finally her ongoing activism. This neatly leads into S6, which comments on the fact that the two laureates come from different nations. Any other order either separates the introduction from its examples or breaks the narrative about one of the laureates into disconnected parts. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B P R Q S jumps from the prize to Nadia Murad first, then back to Denis Mukwege, and then again to Nadia Murad, which disrupts the logical grouping of information. Option C S R Q P starts with S, which presupposes prior mention of Nadia Murad, so it cannot be the first of the middle sentences. Option D Q R S P delays the mention of the prize until after the examples, which is odd because we should first know why these individuals are relevant. Option E R Q P S begins with Nadia Murad without first announcing the prize or presenting the overall theme of the paragraph. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake in sentence ordering questions is to pick sequences based purely on content familiarity rather than paying attention to pronouns and time markers. Words like this year s and today hint at the narrative sequence. Another useful strategy is to group information about each person or idea together rather than scattering it across the paragraph, which often reveals the only logical order. Final Answer: The correct sequence of the middle sentences is P Q R S.

Question 8

Conditional usage: choose the correct verb form to complete He may not come, but we will get ready in case he ____.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests knowledge of verb forms in conditional like clauses with in case. The sentence is He may not come, but we will get ready in case he blank. We must insert a verb form that fits standard English and clearly conveys the idea that we prepare for the possibility that he comes, even though he might not. Given Data / Assumptions: The main clause uses the modal may to express uncertainty: He may not come. The second clause begins with but we will get ready in case he blank. In case usually introduces a clause that refers to a real possibility and typically uses a present tense form when referring to the future. Concept / Approach: In English, after in case when we are talking about a future possibility, we normally use the simple present, not will or another modal. For example, we say Take an umbrella in case it rains, not in case it will rain. In this sentence, the idea is similar: we will get ready now, in preparation for the possible event that he does come. Therefore, the correct choice is the present simple form does, corresponding to come, as in in case he does come. The verb come is understood and can be omitted after does in conversational English. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the structure in case he blank, which is a standard in case clause expressing a possible event. Step 2: Recall the rule that in case clauses about the future usually take present simple rather than will or may. Step 3: Recognise that the meaning is in case he does come, so the auxiliary should be does. Step 4: Substitute does into the sentence and read it as He may not come, but we will get ready in case he does. Step 5: Confirm that the sentence is natural and grammatically correct. Verification / Alternative check: We can compare similar examples: I will leave early in case there is traffic, We will keep the door open in case she arrives late. In each of these, the clause after in case uses present simple even though the meaning is future. Using will in those places would sound off to native speakers. Therefore, in the exam sentence too, does is the only option that both fits the rule and yields a natural sounding sentence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A may repeats the modal from the first clause but creates an unnatural structure in case he may, which is not standard in English. Option B will gives in case he will, which is incorrect because we avoid will in such subordinate clauses about future possibilities. Option C shall is old fashioned and does not fit the grammar of subordinate clauses introduced by in case in modern usage. Option E might also fails for the same reason as may; we do not say in case he might in this context. Common Pitfalls: A common error is to mirror the future meaning of the main clause by inserting will or another modal in the in case clause. However, English handles future meaning in subordinate clauses differently, often using the present tense. Remember patterns like in case it rains and if he comes rather than in case it will rain or if he will come. Practising with such patterns will make this type of question much easier to handle in exams. Final Answer: The sentence should read He may not come, but we will get ready in case he does.

Question 9

Cloze on economic growth: fill the blank in The consequences of economic growth have now ____ to the lowest level.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This cloze question comes from an economic context. The sentence reads The consequences of economic growth have now blank to the lowest level. The idea is that the effects of growth have reached ordinary people or the bottom of society. We must choose a verb that matches this meaning and forms a natural collocation with to the lowest level. Given Data / Assumptions: The subject is consequences of economic growth, which can be positive or negative effects. The phrase to the lowest level suggests movement downward through levels of society or the economy. The auxiliary have now indicates present perfect tense, so the missing word must be a past participle. Concept / Approach: In economics and social science writing, the metaphor of percolation is often used to describe how wealth or benefits gradually filter down from higher levels to lower ones. The phrase have percolated to the lowest level means that the effects have reached the grassroots or the poorest segments. The other verbs do not capture this sense of gradual downward spread and do not collocate as well with consequences in this structure. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Interpret the intended meaning: the effects of economic growth have reached the lowest strata of society. Step 2: Recall academic phrases such as how benefits percolate down or percolation of growth to lower levels. Step 3: Recognise that percolated is the past participle that fits both the sense and the tense have percolated. Step 4: Substitute percolated into the sentence: The consequences of economic growth have now percolated to the lowest level. Step 5: Confirm that this sounds natural and aligns with common economic terminology. Verification / Alternative check: In newspaper editorials and economic commentary, we find sentences like The benefits of liberalisation have not percolated to the rural poor or Growth has failed to percolate to the bottom of the pyramid. These parallels support the choice of percolated here. The other verbs, such as slipped, drawn, or crept, do not appear in such idiomatic combinations with consequences of economic growth and to the lowest level in standard usage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A drawn usually needs an object, as in drawn attention or drawn conclusion, and does not fit with have drawn to the lowest level in this context. Option B slipped suggests a fall or decline, for example slipped into recession, but The consequences have slipped to the lowest level is not a standard phrase and changes the nuance. Option D crept means moved slowly and quietly, which may convey movement but without the sense of filtering or spreading through layers, and it is rarely used with consequences of economic growth. Option E sunk implies going down to the bottom, but The consequences have sunk to the lowest level sounds odd, because consequences are not physical objects that sink; instead, benefits or effects are said to percolate down. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes focus only on physical direction and choose a verb that suggests going down, such as sunk, without considering collocation and figurative meaning. In academic English, fixed combinations like percolate to the lowest level or trickle down are widely used to describe how prosperity or impact spreads. Learning these formulaic expressions will help you quickly identify correct answers in cloze passages about economics and development. Final Answer: The correct verb is percolated, so the sentence becomes The consequences of economic growth have now percolated to the lowest level.

Question 10

One word substitution: choose the best single word meaning Easily duped or fooled.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: One word substitution questions ask you to replace a descriptive phrase with a precise single word. The phrase here is Easily duped or fooled. This describes a person who believes things too quickly and is easily tricked by others. We must choose the noun or adjective that accurately captures this meaning. Given Data / Assumptions: The key idea is that the person can be easily deceived or cheated. The phrase does not refer to stubbornness, respectability, or mockery, but specifically to susceptibility to being fooled. The correct option should be a standard vocabulary item used in such contexts. Concept / Approach: The English word gullible means exactly what the phrase states: easily persuaded to believe something and therefore easily fooled or duped. It is widely used in exam level English and appears in many word lists. The other options denote entirely different traits, such as intolerance or deserving respect, and so they cannot serve as correct substitutions. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the core meaning of the phrase easily duped or fooled. Step 2: Recall that gullible is the standard adjective describing someone who believes things too readily and is easy to trick. Step 3: Compare gullible with the remaining options and confirm that none of them refer to being easily fooled. Step 4: Confirm that gullible is used with people, for example gullible tourists or gullible children. Step 5: Select Gullible as the correct one word substitution. Verification / Alternative check: Dictionary definitions of gullible describe it as easily persuaded to believe something and therefore easily tricked. This matches the phrase easily duped or fooled word for word. Sample sentences such as He is so gullible that he believed every rumour he heard reinforce this equivalence. No other option aligns so closely with the idea of being vulnerable to deception. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A Bigot refers to a person who is intolerant of other people s opinions or beliefs, especially in matters of race, religion, or politics. This has nothing to do with being easily fooled. Option C Ridicule is a noun meaning mockery or behaviour intended to make someone appear silly; it is an action, not a personality trait of being easily duped. Option D Venerable means worthy of respect, especially due to age, wisdom, or character. A venerable person may or may not be easily fooled; the word simply does not contain that idea. Option E Skeptical describes a person who doubts or questions things and is therefore the opposite of gullible. A skeptical person is hard to fool, not easy to trick. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes students confuse gullible with words like gentle or humble because all describe people in some way. However, for one word substitutions, it is vital to focus on the exact behaviour described: here, the specific behaviour is being easily deceived. Learning vocabulary in small thematic groups, such as words related to honesty, deception, or attitude, can help you keep similar looking but unrelated words clearly separated in your memory. Final Answer: The best single word that means Easily duped or fooled is Gullible.

Question 11

Fill in the blank with the most appropriate preposition to complete the idiom. Virat Kohli added another feather _____ his cap by his wonderful performance in the one day international cricket match.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In this English vocabulary question, you are tested on a common idiom that appears frequently in newspapers, sports commentary, and competitive exams. The expression is used in a sentence about Virat Kohli performing very well in a one day international cricket match. The task is to choose the correct preposition that completes the idiom and keeps the sentence grammatically correct and natural in standard English usage. Given Data / Assumptions: - The sentence contains the fixed idiom add another feather _____ his cap. - We must choose a preposition from the given options in, to, on, into, and over. - The intended meaning is that Virat Kohli achieved one more honour or distinction through his performance. Concept / Approach: In English, many idioms have fixed prepositions that do not change. One such idiom is feather in someone s cap, which means an additional honour, credit, or achievement that someone can be proud of. The verb add or gain is often used before this idiom. The standard pattern is add another feather to his cap. Therefore, the correct preposition is to. Other prepositions like in, on, into, and over may appear with other expressions, but they do not collocate with this idiom in natural English. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the idiom inside the sentence: feather _____ his cap. Step 2: Recall the standard idiomatic expression, which is a feather in someone s cap, often used with add another feather to his cap. Step 3: Check which preposition collocates correctly with the verb add and the idiom feather in his cap. The normal pattern is add a feather to his cap. Step 4: Substitute to in the blank and read the full sentence to confirm that it is grammatically correct and idiomatically natural. Verification / Alternative check: If we consult standard English usage in dictionaries, grammar books, or trusted articles, the phrase is always given as a feather in someone s cap, and when describing the act of gaining such an honour we say add a feather to his cap. Reading the full sentence with to shows that the meaning becomes clear and the sentence sounds natural: Virat Kohli added another feather to his cap by his wonderful performance in the one day international cricket match. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - in: add another feather in his cap is not the standard form with add; in usually appears in the base idiom, not after add. - on: add another feather on his cap is grammatically odd and not idiomatic. - into: add another feather into his cap is incorrect because into suggests movement inside, which does not fit the metaphor. - over: add another feather over his cap has no accepted idiomatic use in English in this context. Common Pitfalls: Many learners confuse the internal structure of idioms. They remember the phrase feather in his cap and incorrectly place in after added. However, when the verb add is used, the correct pattern is add something to something. Another common mistake is to overthink the physical image of a feather placed in a cap and choose in or on on that basis instead of relying on real language usage. Always remember that idioms must be learned as fixed chunks rather than assembled logically word by word. Final Answer: The correct preposition is to, so the complete sentence is: Virat Kohli added another feather to his cap by his wonderful performance in the one day international cricket match.

Question 12

Choose the correct one word substitute for the given description: a person who copies from other writers and presents the work as original.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question tests your knowledge of one word substitutions, a popular topic in competitive English exams. The description given is a person who copies from other writers and presents the work as original. In academic and professional contexts, this behaviour is considered a serious offence, and there is a precise term used to describe such a person. Knowing this term helps you understand discussions about ethics, research, and intellectual property. Given Data / Assumptions: - We need a single word that replaces the phrase a person who copies from other writers and passes the work off as original. - The options include Imitator, Pluralist, Plagiarist, Copycat, and Adapter. - The focus is on copying someone else s written work, usually without permission or acknowledgement. Concept / Approach: In English, the technical term for the act of copying someone else s written work and presenting it as one s own is plagiarism. The noun for the person who does this is plagiarist. This word is commonly used in universities, publishing houses, and journalism to describe someone who has stolen text, ideas, or creative work. While imitator and copycat also involve copying, they do not necessarily include the idea of intellectual dishonesty or presenting the work as truly original. Therefore, plagiarist is the most accurate and precise answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the key idea in the description: copying from other writers and showing the work as original. Step 2: Recall the term used for this act in academic or legal context, which is plagiarism. Step 3: Identify the corresponding noun for a person who commits plagiarism, namely plagiarist. Step 4: Compare plagiarist with the other options and confirm that it uniquely captures the idea of wrongful copying of written work. Verification / Alternative check: Consulting standard English dictionaries will show that plagiarist means a person who uses another person s words or ideas as if they were their own. This matches the description exactly. On the other hand, imitator can describe a person who follows another s style but may still create original content. Copycat is an informal term and does not necessarily refer to written work or intellectual property. Therefore, the most precise and exam appropriate term is plagiarist. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Imitator: suggests someone who follows a style or model but does not automatically imply cheating or theft of text. - Pluralist: refers to someone who believes in or practices pluralism, and has no connection with copying written work. - Copycat: an informal term for someone who copies, but it is not the standard technical word for the offence of plagiarism. - Adapter: a person who modifies something for a new purpose; this does not imply dishonest copying of writing. Common Pitfalls: Candidates often choose imitator or copycat because these words feel close in everyday use. However, exams usually prefer the precise term that fits formal contexts. Learners should remember that plagiarism and plagiarist are strongly linked to writing, research, and creative work, and that the word carries a serious negative meaning. Memorising such technical vocabulary helps in reading academic articles and understanding exam passages on ethics and law. Final Answer: The correct one word substitute is Plagiarist.

Question 13

Choose the correct one word substitute for the following description: a thing that can be physically felt or touched.

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Introduction / Context: This question checks your understanding of precise adjectives used to describe the nature of objects or experiences. The phrase a thing that can be physically felt or touched points towards the idea of something tangible, clear, or noticeable. In English, certain adjectives are used to describe sensations or qualities that are so strong they seem almost physical. Knowing these words helps in reading literature, essays, and newspaper articles with greater accuracy. Given Data / Assumptions: - The definition given is a thing that can be felt or touched. - The options are Palpable, Pandemic, Paltry, Panchromatic, and Abstract. - We are looking for a word that connects with physical sensation or clear, noticeable presence. Concept / Approach: The adjective palpable literally means able to be touched or felt. It is also used more broadly to describe feelings or atmospheres that are so strong that they seem almost physical, for example palpable tension. This matches the given description closely. The other options refer to completely different ideas and do not capture the sense of tangibility or touch. Therefore, by matching the definition to the precise dictionary meaning, we conclude that the correct answer is palpable. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify key words in the description: can be felt, can be touched, physically noticeable. Step 2: Recall vocabulary that describes something tangible or almost physically noticeable; the word palpable fits this idea. Step 3: Compare palpable with each option and see which meaning aligns with the definition. Step 4: Confirm that none of the other options relate to touch or physical sensation, which makes palpable the only correct choice. Verification / Alternative check: In standard dictionaries, palpable is defined as easily perceptible or capable of being touched or felt. Common example sentences include palpable fear or palpable relief, where the feeling is so intense that it seems almost solid. This meaning matches the description given in the question. By contrast, the other words relate to disease spread, smallness, colour range, or non physical ideas, and therefore can be eliminated confidently. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Pandemic: refers to a disease that is prevalent over a whole country or the world; it does not describe something that can be physically touched. - Paltry: means very small or insignificant in amount; it is about quantity, not physical touch or sensation. - Panchromatic: relates to sensitivity to all colours, usually used in photography or film; it has nothing to do with touch. - Abstract: describes ideas that are not concrete or physical; this is actually the opposite of something that can be touched. Common Pitfalls: Because several options start with the same prefix, candidates sometimes choose on the basis of sound rather than meaning. It is important to slow down, focus on the root meaning, and eliminate words that clearly belong to other domains like medicine or photography. Vocabulary questions in exams often test whether you know subtle differences, so building a habit of checking meaning, usage, and example sentences during preparation is very helpful. Final Answer: The correct answer is Palpable.

Question 14

Improve the following sentence by selecting the most appropriate alternative: Never such incidents have taken place on our campus.

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Introduction / Context: This is a sentence improvement question that checks your understanding of word order and subject verb agreement in English. The original sentence uses the negative adverb never, and such adverbs often require inversion of the subject and auxiliary verb in formal English. You must identify which option corrects the grammatical error while preserving the original meaning that such incidents have not previously occurred on the campus. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: Never such incidents have taken place on our campus. - We want to express that incidents of this kind have never happened before on the campus. - Options offer different word orders and tenses, including a no improvement choice. Concept / Approach: When a negative adverb such as never, rarely, or seldom is placed at the beginning of a sentence in English, formal usage often requires inversion, which means the auxiliary verb comes before the subject. The correct structure is Never have such incidents taken place, not Never such incidents have taken place. We also need to keep the present perfect tense have taken place to show an action that has not occurred at any time up to now. Therefore, the best improved version is Never have such incidents taken place on our campus. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the negative adverb at the beginning of the sentence, which is never. Step 2: Recall the inversion rule: Never or rarely at the beginning usually requires auxiliary verb plus subject in formal statements. Step 3: Apply inversion and rewrite as Never have such incidents taken place, keeping the rest of the sentence on our campus unchanged. Step 4: Compare this corrected version with all the given options and select the one that matches exactly. Verification / Alternative check: If we read the corrected sentence aloud, Never have such incidents taken place on our campus, it is clear, grammatically correct, and formal. The present perfect have taken place correctly expresses an event that has not occurred at any time up to the present moment. Other options either change the tense or introduce additional errors, which confirms that option A is the only fully acceptable improvement. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Such incidents will never have taken place on our campus: this future perfect form will never have taken place is unnatural for the intended meaning and shifts the time reference unnecessarily. - Never were such incidents taking place on our campus: the past continuous were taking place does not match the idea of a general statement about all past time, and the structure sounds awkward. - No improvement. The sentence is already correct: the original word order is grammatically wrong in formal English because the auxiliary have follows the subject without inversion after never at the start. - Such incidents never has taken place on our campus: has should be have to agree with the plural subject incidents, so this option has a subject verb agreement error. Common Pitfalls: Many learners forget the inversion rule and think that placing never at the beginning is simply a matter of emphasis. It is important to remember that in formal written English, negative adverbs at the start often trigger inversion, similar to question word order. Another frequent mistake is to change the tense unnecessarily, which can distort the meaning. Always check both the grammar and the time reference when improving such sentences. Final Answer: The correct improved sentence is: Never have such incidents taken place on our campus.

Question 15

Rearrange the parts P, Q, and R to form a complete and meaningful sentence: A serious critic P: meaning of a work of art Q: has to comprehend the particular R: content, unique structure, and the special.

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Introduction / Context: This is a sentence rearrangement question that tests your ability to understand logical sentence structure and the flow of ideas. Three parts P, Q, and R are given, and you must choose the sequence that produces a grammatically correct and meaningful statement about the work of a serious critic. Such questions are common in English sections of competitive exams and help measure comprehension as well as grammar awareness. Given Data / Assumptions: - The sentence begins with A serious critic and ends after combining the parts P, Q, and R. - P: meaning of a work of art. - Q: has to comprehend the particular. - R: content, unique structure, and the special. - We need a sequence in which the verb follows the subject and the objects follow the verb smoothly. Concept / Approach: First, identify where the main verb phrase should appear. The subject is A serious critic, so the next logical part should contain the verb phrase has to comprehend. That phrase is in part Q. After that, what does the critic have to comprehend? The phrase has to be followed by an object that describes what is being understood. Part R continues with content, unique structure, and the special, which clearly lists aspects of a work. Finally, part P meaning of a work of art completes the noun phrase. Thus, the natural flow is A serious critic has to comprehend the particular content, unique structure, and the special meaning of a work of art, corresponding to the sequence Q R P. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Start with the given opening A serious critic and look for the part that can directly follow it as the predicate. Step 2: Recognise that Q, has to comprehend the particular, contains the modal verb has to and therefore should follow the subject. Step 3: Notice that R, content, unique structure, and the special, continues the phrase the particular and lists what is being comprehended. Step 4: Place P, meaning of a work of art, at the end to complete the noun phrase and read the full sentence to confirm that it is natural: A serious critic has to comprehend the particular content, unique structure, and the special meaning of a work of art. Verification / Alternative check: You can check alternative orders quickly. If you start with P or R directly after the subject, you get A serious critic meaning of a work of art or A serious critic content, which both lack a verb and sound ungrammatical. Therefore, Q must come first after the subject. Once Q is fixed, placing P immediately after Q gives has to comprehend the particular meaning of a work of art content, unique structure, which is clumsy and broken. Only Q followed by R and then P gives a smooth, grammatically correct line. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - QRP (correct) gives a logical and grammatically complete sentence. - RQP starts with content right after the subject, which leaves the verb has to comprehend stranded later and breaks the natural order. - PQR starts with meaning of a work of art directly after A serious critic, which again lacks a verb and is not a full predicate. - QPR places meaning of a work of art before content, unique structure, which creates an unnatural split in the list and spoils the flow of the sentence. - RPQ creates a sentence fragment after the subject and fails to attach the main verb correctly. Common Pitfalls: Many learners try to decide sequence based only on the first word of each part instead of looking for the main verb phrase. A better strategy is to always locate the subject, then the core verb, and finally the remaining phrases that complete the object or complement. In rearrangement questions, pay attention to articles, prepositions, and the way lists are structured, as they give strong clues about correct order. Final Answer: The correct sequence is Q R P, forming the sentence: A serious critic has to comprehend the particular content, unique structure, and the special meaning of a work of art.

Question 16

Read the following sentence and identify the part that contains an error, if any: 1. Four famous Sikh shrines in Delhi will go green 2. by employing solar energy 3. to meet its daily power needs from April. 4. No error

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is an error detection question, which is a common format in competitive English exams. The sentence is divided into four parts, and you must find which part contains a grammatical mistake. The sentence describes four famous Sikh shrines in Delhi moving towards using solar energy to meet their power needs. The key concepts tested here are subject verb agreement and correct use of pronouns with plural nouns. Given Data / Assumptions: - Part 1: Four famous Sikh shrines in Delhi will go green. - Part 2: by employing solar energy. - Part 3: to meet its daily power needs from April. - Part 4: No error. - The subject of the sentence is four famous Sikh shrines, which is clearly plural. Concept / Approach: To solve error detection questions, you should first identify the main subject and then check whether verbs and pronouns agree with it. In this sentence, the subject shrines is plural. Therefore, any pronoun referring back to it should be plural as well. However, in part 3, the pronoun used is its, which is singular. The correct plural pronoun should be their. This mismatch between plural subject and singular possessive pronoun is the grammatical error we need to locate. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the subject of the sentence: four famous Sikh shrines in Delhi, which is plural. Step 2: Check each part for pronouns or verbs that must agree with this subject. Step 3: Notice in part 3 the phrase to meet its daily power needs from April, where its is singular but refers to the plural shrines. Step 4: Conclude that part 3 contains the error and that the correct form should be to meet their daily power needs from April. Verification / Alternative check: Read the corrected sentence with the plural pronoun: Four famous Sikh shrines in Delhi will go green by employing solar energy to meet their daily power needs from April. Now every part sounds grammatically correct. No other part of the sentence breaks basic rules. The future tense will go green is fine, and the phrase by employing solar energy correctly describes how they plan to go green. Therefore, part 3 is the only part needing correction. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Part 1: Four famous Sikh shrines in Delhi will go green is grammatically correct and clearly states the subject and main action. - Part 2: by employing solar energy correctly uses the gerund employing to describe the means by which they will go green. - Part 4 (No error): this option is incorrect because we have already identified a clear pronoun agreement error in part 3, so the sentence is not error free. - No error in any part: this general option is also wrong for the same reason; there is definitely an error in part 3. Common Pitfalls: Many candidates read quickly and focus only on big words like solar energy or daily power needs, overlooking small but crucial pronouns. Subject pronoun agreement errors are subtle yet very common in exams. A good strategy is to always track back every pronoun and check whether its number and sometimes gender match the noun it refers to. Here, carefully linking its to the plural shrines reveals the problem immediately. Final Answer: The error is in Part 3 because its should be their, so Part 3 is the correct choice.

Question 17

In the passage given, choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: Education is for life, not merely for a livelihood. As long as we are unmindful of this fact, the quality of our educational curriculum as well as that of our teachers …

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is from a cloze passage, where you must select the word that completes the meaning of a sentence logically and contextually. The passage talks about the true purpose of education and emphasises the need for human beings who can think, feel, and act generously. At the end, it contrasts such human beings with computers and another type of non human entity. The goal is to choose the option that best fits this contrast and maintains the theme of automation and technology. Given Data / Assumptions: - The passage stresses that education is for life, not only for earning a livelihood. - It highlights that society needs human beings who can think and act generously. - The last line mentions the kind of people who cannot be replaced by computers and blank. - Options: monitors, televisions, robots, mechanics, machines. Concept / Approach: The key idea in the sentence is the contrast between rich, generous human beings and impersonal machines or automated systems. Computers already represent one type of machine. A parallel term should refer to another kind of intelligent, automated device associated with replacing human labour. Robots fit this meaning perfectly because they are machines that can carry out complex tasks and are often imagined as replacing human workers. Monitors and televisions are display devices, not independent agents. Mechanics are human workers, and machines is too general and unbalanced after computers. Therefore, robots is the most natural and meaningful choice. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Notice the contrast in the sentence between human beings with feelings and artificial entities like computers. Step 2: Recognise that the blank should be filled with another non human entity capable of performing tasks that might replace humans. Step 3: Among the options, robots uniquely represents advanced machines that are often imagined as substitutes for human labour. Step 4: Read the sentence with robots inserted: human beings who cannot be replaced by computers and robots. This sounds natural and reinforces the message of the passage. Verification / Alternative check: Evaluate the sentence with each option. Computers and monitors sounds like two computer parts, not two agents replacing humans. Computers and televisions mixes computing and entertainment devices, which breaks the theme. Computers and mechanics is illogical because mechanics are human workers. Computers and machines is possible but less specific and slightly repetitive, because computers are already a type of machine. Computers and robots, however, clearly evokes the theme of automation and artificial intelligence, making the contrast with rich human qualities very sharp. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - monitors: these are display screens and are not typically thought of as entities that replace human beings in complex tasks. - televisions: mainly entertainment devices, unrelated to the idea of automated work replacing humans. - mechanics: refers to people who repair machines, so using this after computers would break the contrast between humans and non humans. - machines: too broad and somewhat redundant because computers are already machines; the pairing sounds vague compared to computers and robots. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates pick machines because it seems to match the category of computers. However, cloze questions often aim for the most vivid and specific image. Robots immediately suggests automated workers without feelings, which emphasises the contrast with educated human beings who can think and act generously. Always look for the option that sharpens the theme of the passage rather than simply matching by general category. Final Answer: The correct word to fill the blank is robots.

Question 18

In the jumbled passage below, choose the correct sequence of the middle sentences so that the paragraph is meaningful: S1: History shows that the growth of civilization depends upon the gifts of nature, particularly the wealth yielded by the soil. P…

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Introduction / Context: This is a jumbled paragraph question that tests your ability to organise sentences logically. You are given a fixed opening sentence S1 and a fixed closing sentence S6, with four middle sentences P, Q, R, and S jumbled. Your task is to determine the correct order of these four sentences so that the paragraph becomes coherent and meaningful. The passage discusses how land and soil have influenced the growth of civilization and human conflict. Given Data / Assumptions: - S1: History shows that the growth of civilization depends upon the gifts of nature, particularly the wealth yielded by the soil. - P: The more land they had, the more they were satisfied. - Q: The nature and the quality of the land they possessed were of great importance to them. - R: All ancient communities worked hard to produce food. - S: There was also a great desire among them to possess as much land as possible. - S6: In fact, most of the wars in the early history of humanity were fought for the gain of territory. Concept / Approach: To arrange the sentences, we look for a logical flow: from general ideas about civilization and soil, to how early communities produced food, to the importance and desire for land, and finally to wars over territory. After S1 introduces the idea that civilization depends on soil, the next natural sentence should describe what ancient communities did with the land. R, which states that all ancient communities worked hard to produce food, fits directly after S1. Once food production is mentioned, Q can follow by explaining that the nature and quality of the land were important. Then S explains that there was a strong desire to possess as much land as possible, and P concludes the middle sequence by saying that the more land they had, the more they were satisfied. This smoothly leads into S6 about wars for territory. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Place R after S1 because working hard to produce food logically follows the mention of soil and civilization. Step 2: After describing food production, use Q to explain why the nature and quality of land mattered so much to these communities. Step 3: Insert S next, since a desire to possess as much land as possible naturally follows from the importance of land and its quality. Step 4: Conclude the middle sequence with P, which states that the more land they had, the more they were satisfied, setting up the idea that competition over land could lead to conflict, which connects directly to S6 about wars for territory. Verification / Alternative check: Read the full paragraph with the order R Q S P: History shows that the growth of civilization depends upon the gifts of nature, particularly the wealth yielded by the soil. All ancient communities worked hard to produce food. The nature and the quality of the land they possessed were of great importance to them. There was also a great desire among them to possess as much land as possible. The more land they had, the more they were satisfied. In fact, most of the wars in the early history of humanity were fought for the gain of territory. This progression is logical and smooth. Trying alternative orders, such as starting with Q or S immediately after S1, produces a less coherent flow because they do not first mention how people used the land to survive. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Q R S P: placing Q immediately after S1 ignores the step that ancient communities first had to work hard to produce food, which is essential context for why land quality mattered. - S Q R P: beginning with desire to possess land before mentioning food production or land quality breaks the logical chain from survival needs to territorial expansion. - P R Q S and Q S R P: in both cases, the sequences either start with satisfaction before explaining why land was needed or mix the order of desire, quality, and work in a way that feels disjointed. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes focus only on which sentence sounds good after S1 and ignore how well the entire group of sentences connects to S6. A better strategy is to track the storyline: from dependence on soil, to efforts to use it, to appreciation of its quality, to desire for more land, and finally to conflicts over territory. Always check whether the chosen middle sequence creates a smooth bridge between the opening and closing sentences. Final Answer: The correct sequence of the middle sentences is R Q S P.

Question 19

Improve the following sentence by choosing the most appropriate connector: This scooter is not as efficient as it used to be; _____ it is still a very useful machine.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This sentence improvement question tests your understanding of logical connectors and contrast in English. The sentence compares the present condition of a scooter with its past efficiency but then adds that it is still very useful. The blank needs a connector that clearly expresses contrast between reduced efficiency and continued usefulness, without changing the basic meaning of the statement. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: This scooter is not as efficient as it used to be; _____ it is still a very useful machine. - The first clause is negative in tone and tells us that efficiency has decreased. - The second clause adds a positive point that it remains useful. - Options: similarly, further more, nevertheless, No improvement, instead. Concept / Approach: We need a connector that signals contrast between two ideas: one negative and one positive. Words like nevertheless and however are typical contrast markers, showing that the second statement is surprising in light of the first. Similarly is used to show similarity, not contrast. Furthermore or further more introduces an additional point in the same direction, not an opposite idea. Instead suggests replacement, as in one thing happening rather than another. Therefore, the only connector that correctly signals contrast while preserving the meaning is nevertheless. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the relationship between the two clauses. The first talks about reduced efficiency, the second about continued usefulness. Step 2: Recognise that a contrast marker is required, because the second clause softens or balances the first. Step 3: Among the options, select the word that expresses contrast without implying replacement or addition in the same direction. Step 4: Insert nevertheless and read the complete sentence: This scooter is not as efficient as it used to be; nevertheless it is still a very useful machine. Verification / Alternative check: Reading the sentence with nevertheless clearly conveys the intended sense: despite the decline in efficiency, the scooter remains useful. Try replacing it with similarly or further more and the sentence becomes illogical, because these words suggest an additional negative detail or a similar statement rather than a balancing positive point. Using instead would mean that the scooter is not efficient but is useful in place of that, which does not capture the nuance that it is simultaneously less efficient and still useful. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - similarly: suggests that what follows is similar in nature to what comes before, but here we want a contrast between less efficient and still useful. - further more: means in addition and is used to add another reason or point, usually reinforcing the same idea, not balancing it. - No improvement: is incorrect because the sentence without a connector sounds abrupt and incomplete; it needs a linking word for clarity. - instead: implies replacement, which would suggest that usefulness exists in place of efficiency, rather than alongside it in a contrasting way. Common Pitfalls: Many learners misread such questions and focus only on the second clause, ignoring how it relates to the first. Always pay attention to whether the second clause supports, contrasts with, or replaces the information in the first. Matching the connector to this relationship is the key to choosing correctly. In exam practice, learn to recognise common contrast markers like however, nevertheless, yet, and still, and practise using them in sentences. Final Answer: The best improvement is to use nevertheless, giving: This scooter is not as efficient as it used to be; nevertheless it is still a very useful machine.

Question 20

Improve the following sentence by choosing the correct verb form: The teacher as well as his wife _____ invited.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This sentence improvement question tests your understanding of subject verb agreement when compound phrases are joined by expressions such as as well as. The subject phrase the teacher as well as his wife may look plural, but English grammar follows a special rule here. You must choose the verb form that correctly agrees with the true grammatical subject of the sentence, not simply with the nearest noun. Given Data / Assumptions: - Sentence: The teacher as well as his wife _____ invited. - The options offer different verb forms in the passive voice: was invited, were invited, were also invited, was being invited, and No improvement. - The phrase as well as joins two noun phrases but does not create a compound plural subject in standard grammar rules. Concept / Approach: When two nouns are joined by as well as, along with, together with, or similar expressions, the verb usually agrees with the first noun, which is considered the main subject. In this sentence, the main subject is the teacher. The phrase as well as his wife adds extra information but does not affect the number of the subject. Since the teacher is singular, the verb should also be singular. In the passive past form, the correct singular verb is was invited. Therefore, the correct sentence is The teacher as well as his wife was invited. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the main subject before the as well as phrase. Here, it is the teacher. Step 2: Recognise that as well as introduces an additional phrase that does not change the number of the grammatical subject. Step 3: Decide that the subject is singular, so the verb must be singular. Step 4: Choose was invited as the singular passive form and read the full sentence: The teacher as well as his wife was invited. Verification / Alternative check: Compare the sentence with both was invited and were invited. The teacher as well as his wife was invited sounds formal and correct according to standard rules. The form were invited is common in casual speech but is treated as incorrect in competitive exam grammar. Also, the continuous form was being invited changes the meaning into an ongoing action which is not implied in the original context, where a simple past passive is enough. Hence, was invited is the best and most exam appropriate choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - were invited: treats the subject as plural, ignoring the rule that the verb must agree with the first noun before as well as. - were also invited: adds also without necessity and still keeps the incorrect plural verb were. - was being invited: changes the aspect of the verb and suggests an action in progress, which does not match the simple idea of an invitation having been given. - No improvement: wrong because the sentence requires a properly chosen verb; leaving the blank empty or with an incorrect form would not be acceptable. Common Pitfalls: Many learners look at the nearest noun his wife and switch to a plural verb by instinct. This mistake is especially common in long subjects where extra phrases come in between the main subject and the verb. In exam practice, it is important to strip away additional phrases such as as well as his wife and focus on the core subject the teacher before choosing the verb form. This habit significantly reduces subject verb agreement errors. Final Answer: The correct improvement is: The teacher as well as his wife was invited.

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