Directions: In each of the following questions there are three blank spaces. Below each question there are some options and each option consist of three words which can be filled up in the blanks of the statement(s) to make the statement grammatically correct. Choose the correct alternative among the options given below. The investigator, with ________ attention to detail, proceeded to ________ every piece of evidence, hoping to uncover the elusive truth behind the ________ case.

### Concept & Vocabulary In Context To solve multiple-blank questions, analyze the sentence's tone and look for context clues that dictate the meaning of the missing words. ### Step-by-Step Solution - **First blank:** The phrase "attention to detail" requires a positive adjective describing thoroughness. "Meticulous" (showing great attention to detail) fits perfectly. - **Second blank:** The action taken on "every piece of evidence" by an investigator trying to uncover truth is a close examination. "Scrutinize" (examine or inspect closely and thoroughly) is the exact word needed. - **Third blank:** The case hides an "elusive truth", implying it is difficult to solve. "Complex" fits this description well. - Checking other options: "Scandalous" attention makes no sense. "Trivial" contradicts the need for attention to detail. "Virtuous" does not fit the context of investigation. ### Exam Strategy & Shortcut Start with the blank you are most certain about. The second blank here clearly needs a verb like "examine" or "analyze". Only "scrutinize" in option (a) fits this specific action perfectly, allowing you to eliminate the rest immediately. ### Common Pitfall Choosing an option where only one or two words fit well, ignoring the third. Always plug in all three words and read the complete sentence aloud in your head to ensure it makes logical and grammatical sense. ### Final Answer Therefore, the correct answer is **A**.