Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: I am trying to finish
Explanation:
Introduction:
The focus is the correct tense with time-duration expressions such as "for the last one hour." English typically uses the present perfect continuous for actions that began in the past and continue to the present.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Use present perfect continuous for ongoing actions from the past up to now: "have been + verb-ing." This better signals continuity across a duration ending at the present moment.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify the duration marker "for the last one hour."2) Replace "am trying" with "have been trying" to match duration continuity.3) Correct clause: "I have been trying to finish this letter for the last one hour."4) The rest of the sentence (C, D) is fine for the intended meaning.
Verification / Alternative check:
Compare: "I am trying for the last hour" (awkward) vs "I have been trying for the last hour" (standard).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Using simple or present progressive with explicit past-to-present durations; forgetting perfect aspect.
Final Answer:
Option A
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