Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: that he will explain it
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question tests sequence of tenses in reported speech and conditional time clauses in formal English.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
With a past reporting verb, backshift is normally applied: ‘‘will’’ → ‘‘would.’’ In the conditional clause referring to a future-in-the-past situation, simple present ‘‘come’’ may appear in direct speech, but in reported speech after a past reporting verb, ‘‘came’’ is typically used when the time reference is anchored in the past plan.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify backshift: ‘‘promised’’ → change ‘‘will’’ to ‘‘would.’’Optional refinement: ‘‘if they came’’ fits the past-time plan.Corrected core: ‘‘… that he would explain it …’’
Verification / Alternative check:
Compare direct speech: ‘‘He promised, ‘I will explain it if they come tomorrow.’ ’’ Reported: ‘‘He promised that he would explain it if they came the following day.’’
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A and D are fine; C could be improved to ‘‘came’’ but the error the test targets is the failure to backshift ‘‘will’’ in B.
Common Pitfalls:
Keeping ‘‘will’’ after past reporting verbs; mixing direct and reported speech timelines.
Final Answer:
that he will explain it
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