Introduction / Context:
This test item focuses on tense consistency and subject–verb agreement in a narrative past context. The sentence is segmented; identify the incorrect part.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Main time frame: past (“was away”).
- Another past event: receiving a letter.
- Formal quotation style around “Urgent.”
Concept / Approach:
Maintain the simple past for events situated in the past narrative. The verb in Part C must be “received,” not “receive.”
Step-by-Step Solution:
A: “While Mahendra was away” — correct past progressive set-up.B: “on a long official tour” — correct prepositional phrase.C: “his office receive an important letter” — error: base form after a past context; correct form is “received.”D: “which was marked 'Urgent'.” — correct passive and quotation formatting.
Verification / Alternative check:
Corrected: “While Mahendra was away on a long official tour, his office received an important letter which was marked 'Urgent'.”
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Only C breaks tense consistency; the others are acceptable.
Common Pitfalls:
Dropping the -ed ending in past narrative; confusion between present simple and past simple.
Final Answer:
his office receive an important letter
Discussion & Comments