Introduction / Context:
The sentence mixes present-time reference with a past-tense concessive clause and also omits a necessary article. Error-spotting here tests tense consistency and article use with singular countable nouns (“the college”).
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Main clause: present habitual “He neglects attending lectures …”.
- Concessive clause: “though college was only a few yards away …”.
- “College” is a singular countable noun and normally takes the definite article when a specific college is meant.
Concept / Approach:
- Tense consistency: with a present-habitual main clause, the background fact should normally be present (“is”), unless referring to a specific past period.
- Article rule: “the college” when referencing a particular institution known to speaker and listener.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify inconsistency: present “neglects” vs. past “was”.Supply article and adjust tense: “though the college is only a few yards away from his house.”Re-read for coherence: the habit and the standing fact now align.
Verification / Alternative check:
If the writer intended a past narrative, the main clause would shift: “He neglected attending lectures … though the college was …”. That is not the sentence given.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A–C: Acceptable collocation “neglects attending … regularly”.E: Not applicable because D contains an error.
Common Pitfalls:
Dropping articles before singular count nouns; switching tenses within a single time frame.
Final Answer:
though college was only a few yards away from his house.
Discussion & Comments