English Conventions practice questions

English Conventions questions

Pick an answer before you look. Tapping a choice shows which one was right and opens the worked explanation, and a miss is remembered so Weak Skills can replay that skill. It stays in this browser.

1. 1Subject-verb agreementFoundation

   The collection of early maps _____ stored in a climate-controlled room. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The collection of early maps _____ stored in a climate-controlled room. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • Awerewere
   • Bisis
   • Chavehave
   • Dareare
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: isis

   The subject is "collection," which is singular. The phrase "of early maps" modifies collection and does not change the verb to plural.The subject is "collection," which is singular. The phrase "of early maps" modifies collection and does not change the verb to plural.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
2. 2PunctuationFoundation

   The workshop begins at 6:00 p.m. Participants should bring the following _____ a notebook and a pencil. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The workshop begins at 6:00 p.m. Participants should bring the following _____ a notebook and a pencil. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • A..
   • B;;
   • C,,
   • D::
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: ::

   The words before the blank form a complete clause that introduces a list, so a colon is the correct punctuation.The words before the blank form a complete clause that introduces a list, so a colon is the correct punctuation.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
3. 3ModifiersStandard

   _____ across the bridge, the hikers saw a heron standing near the water. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?_____ across the bridge, the hikers saw a heron standing near the water. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • AThere was walkingThere was walking
   • BWalkingWalking
   • CThe bridge was walkedThe bridge was walked
   • DA heron walkedA heron walked
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: WalkingWalking

   The opening modifier must clearly describe the hikers, the subject of the main clause. "Walking" creates that direct and logical connection.The opening modifier must clearly describe the hikers, the subject of the main clause. "Walking" creates that direct and logical connection.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
4. 4Pronoun clarityFoundation

   When Maya spoke with Elena about the exhibit, Maya showed Elena _____ revised sketch. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?When Maya spoke with Elena about the exhibit, Maya showed Elena _____ revised sketch. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • Asheshe
   • BMaya'sMaya's
   • Cherher
   • Dtheirtheir
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: Maya'sMaya's

   Using Maya's name makes ownership clear. "Her" could refer to either Maya or Elena, and the other choices do not fit grammatically or clearly.Using Maya's name makes ownership clear. "Her" could refer to either Maya or Elena, and the other choices do not fit grammatically or clearly.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
5. 5Sentence boundariesStandard

   The seed library lends packets to residents. _____ it also offers short classes on saving seeds. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The seed library lends packets to residents. _____ it also offers short classes on saving seeds. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • AAlso,Also,
   • BAlsoAlso
   • C; also,; also,
   • D, also, also
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: Also,Also,

   "Also" introduces the second independent clause and is followed by a comma. The other choices create a comma splice or incorrect punctuation."Also" introduces the second independent clause and is followed by a comma. The other choices create a comma splice or incorrect punctuation.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
6. 6Verb tenseFoundation

   By the time the concert began, the volunteers _____ every chair in the hall. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?By the time the concert began, the volunteers _____ every chair in the hall. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • Aarrangearrange
   • Bhad arrangedhad arranged
   • Cwill arrangewill arrange
   • Dare arrangingare arranging
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: had arrangedhad arranged

   The arranging was completed before another past event, the concert's beginning. The past perfect "had arranged" shows that sequence.The arranging was completed before another past event, the concert's beginning. The past perfect "had arranged" shows that sequence.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
7. 7PunctuationStandard

   The recipe requires three common ingredients _____ flour, water, and salt. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The recipe requires three common ingredients _____ flour, water, and salt. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • A, and, and
   • B;;
   • C--
   • D::
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: ::

   The words before the blank form a complete clause that introduces a list, so a colon is the correct punctuation.The words before the blank form a complete clause that introduces a list, so a colon is the correct punctuation.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
8. 8Parallel structureStandard

   The internship asks students to research a question, to draft a proposal, and _____ their findings. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The internship asks students to research a question, to draft a proposal, and _____ their findings. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • Apresentingpresenting
   • Bto presentto present
   • Cthey presentthey present
   • Dpresentpresent
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: to presentto present

   The series uses infinitives: "to research," "to draft," and "to present." Matching that form creates parallel structure.The series uses infinitives: "to research," "to draft," and "to present." Matching that form creates parallel structure.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
9. 9Subject-verb agreementStandard

   Neither the lamps nor the ceiling fan _____ working after the storm. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Neither the lamps nor the ceiling fan _____ working after the storm. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

   • Awaswas
   • Bhave beenhave been
   • Careare
   • Dwerewere
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: waswas

   With "neither...nor," the verb generally agrees with the nearer subject. "Ceiling fan" is singular, so "was" is correct in this past-time sentence.With "neither...nor," the verb generally agrees with the nearer subject. "Ceiling fan" is singular, so "was" is correct in this past-time sentence.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
10. 10PossessivesFoundation

    The two _____ research appears in the journal's spring issue. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The two _____ research appears in the journal's spring issue. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ascientist's'scientist's'
    • Bscientistsscientists
    • Cscientist'sscientist's
    • Dscientists'scientists'
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: scientists'scientists'

    The research belongs to two scientists, so a plural possessive is needed: plural "scientists" followed by an apostrophe.The research belongs to two scientists, so a plural possessive is needed: plural "scientists" followed by an apostrophe.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
11. 11Sentence boundariesStandard

    The chef tested the sauce several times _____ the final version used less salt. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The chef tested the sauce several times _____ the final version used less salt. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A::
    • B;;
    • C, and, and
    • D. Therefore,. Therefore,
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: , and, and

    The sentence contains two independent clauses. A comma followed by "and" joins them correctly: the chef tested the sauce, and the final version used less salt.The sentence contains two independent clauses. A comma followed by "and" joins them correctly: the chef tested the sauce, and the final version used less salt.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
12. 12PunctuationFoundation

    The kit contains everything a beginner needs _____ a cutting mat, two brushes, and a small jar of glue. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The kit contains everything a beginner needs _____ a cutting mat, two brushes, and a small jar of glue. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A''
    • B::
    • C, and, and
    • D;;
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: ::

    The words before the blank form a complete clause that introduces a list, and a colon is the punctuation used to introduce a list after a complete clause.The words before the blank form a complete clause that introduces a list, and a colon is the punctuation used to introduce a list after a complete clause.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
13. 13Verb tenseStandard

    Since the observatory opened in 2018, more than forty thousand visitors _____ through its doors. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Since the observatory opened in 2018, more than forty thousand visitors _____ through its doors. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ahave passedhave passed
    • Bwere passingwere passing
    • Cwill passwill pass
    • Dpassedpassed
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: have passedhave passed

    "Since" describes an action that began in the past and continues into the present, which is what the present perfect "have passed" expresses."Since" describes an action that began in the past and continues into the present, which is what the present perfect "have passed" expresses.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
14. 14ModifiersStandard

    _____, the recipe calls for the dough to rest for an hour. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?_____, the recipe calls for the dough to rest for an hour. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • AAfter the flour and water are combinedAfter the flour and water are combined
    • BHaving combined the flour and waterHaving combined the flour and water
    • CCombining the flour and waterCombining the flour and water
    • DAfter combining the flour and waterAfter combining the flour and water
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: After the flour and water are combinedAfter the flour and water are combined

    The subject of the main clause is "the recipe," which cannot combine anything. Only the choice with its own subject and verb avoids attaching the action to the recipe.The subject of the main clause is "the recipe," which cannot combine anything. Only the choice with its own subject and verb avoids attaching the action to the recipe.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
15. 15PunctuationStandard

    The archivist _____ who had cataloged the collection for eleven years, retired in the spring. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The archivist _____ who had cataloged the collection for eleven years, retired in the spring. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A,,
    • B--
    • C;;
    • D::
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: ,,

    "Who had cataloged the collection for eleven years" is a nonessential clause, and a nonessential clause is set off by a pair of commas. The closing comma is already in place."Who had cataloged the collection for eleven years" is a nonessential clause, and a nonessential clause is set off by a pair of commas. The closing comma is already in place.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
16. 16Subject-verb agreementStandard

    Each of the three proposals _____ a different approach to funding the repairs. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Each of the three proposals _____ a different approach to funding the repairs. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ahave describedhave described
    • Bdescribesdescribes
    • Cdescribedescribe
    • Dwere describingwere describing
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: describesdescribes

    The subject is "each," which is singular and takes a singular verb. The phrase "of the three proposals" does not change the number of the subject.The subject is "each," which is singular and takes a singular verb. The phrase "of the three proposals" does not change the number of the subject.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
17. 17Pronoun clarityStandard

    The museum returned the fossil to the university because _____ had documented its discovery site. Which choice completes the sentence so that its meaning is clear and it conforms to Standard English conventions?The museum returned the fossil to the university because _____ had documented its discovery site. Which choice completes the sentence so that its meaning is clear and it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Athe universitythe university
    • Bthe institutionthe institution
    • Ctheythey
    • Ditit
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: the universitythe university

    Two singular nouns precede the blank, so a pronoun would leave the reference ambiguous. Naming the university makes the sentence clear.Two singular nouns precede the blank, so a pronoun would leave the reference ambiguous. Naming the university makes the sentence clear.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
18. 18Parallel structureStandard

    The apprenticeship trains carpenters to read plans, to select timber, and _____ their own joints. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The apprenticeship trains carpenters to read plans, to select timber, and _____ their own joints. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ato cutto cut
    • Bfor cuttingfor cutting
    • Ccuttingcutting
    • Dthey cutthey cut
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: to cutto cut

    The first two items in the list use the infinitive form, so the third must match: to read, to select, to cut.The first two items in the list use the infinitive form, so the third must match: to read, to select, to cut.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
19. 19Sentence boundariesStandard

    The tide pools are easiest to reach at dawn _____ the water is lowest then and the rocks are least slippery. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The tide pools are easiest to reach at dawn _____ the water is lowest then and the rocks are least slippery. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Aand,and,
    • B,,
    • C;;
    • Dwhichwhich
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: ;;

    Both halves are complete sentences. A semicolon joins them correctly, while a comma alone would create a comma splice.Both halves are complete sentences. A semicolon joins them correctly, while a comma alone would create a comma splice.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
20. 20PossessivesFoundation

    The _____ nesting sites are monitored each spring by a team of volunteers. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The _____ nesting sites are monitored each spring by a team of volunteers. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Aheron'sheron's
    • Bherons'herons'
    • Cheronsherons
    • Dherons'sherons's
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: herons'herons'

    More than one heron shares the sites, so the plural possessive is required: the plural "herons" followed by an apostrophe.More than one heron shares the sites, so the plural possessive is required: the plural "herons" followed by an apostrophe.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
21. 21Verb tenseFoundation

    Last summer the crew _____ the trail markers before the first hikers arrived. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Last summer the crew _____ the trail markers before the first hikers arrived. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Areplacereplace
    • Bhad replacedhad replaced
    • Cwill replacewill replace
    • Dhave replacedhave replaced
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: had replacedhad replaced

    Both events are in the past, and the replacing finished before the hikers arrived. The past perfect "had replaced" marks the earlier of two past actions.Both events are in the past, and the replacing finished before the hikers arrived. The past perfect "had replaced" marks the earlier of two past actions.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
22. 22ModifiersChallenge

    The curator described the vase, _____ in a market outside the city, as the collection's most puzzling object. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The curator described the vase, _____ in a market outside the city, as the collection's most puzzling object. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awhich had been foundwhich had been found
    • Bfinding itfinding it
    • Cand found itand found it
    • Dhaving found ithaving found it
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: which had been foundwhich had been found

    The modifier describes the vase, not the curator. A relative clause beginning with "which" attaches to the noun it follows; the participial choices would make the curator the one doing the finding.The modifier describes the vase, not the curator. A relative clause beginning with "which" attaches to the noun it follows; the participial choices would make the curator the one doing the finding.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
23. 23PunctuationStandard

    The festival features three kinds of performance _____ music, dance, and spoken word. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The festival features three kinds of performance _____ music, dance, and spoken word. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A-,-,
    • B::
    • C,,
    • D;;
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: ::

    The words before the blank form a complete clause introducing a list, which is exactly where a colon belongs.The words before the blank form a complete clause introducing a list, which is exactly where a colon belongs.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
24. 24Subject-verb agreementChallenge

    Neither the director nor the two producers _____ willing to comment before the premiere. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Neither the director nor the two producers _____ willing to comment before the premiere. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awerewere
    • Bisis
    • Chas beenhas been
    • Dwaswas
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: werewere

    With "neither ... nor", the verb agrees with the nearer subject. "The two producers" is plural and sits closest to the verb, so the plural "were" is correct.With "neither ... nor", the verb agrees with the nearer subject. "The two producers" is plural and sits closest to the verb, so the plural "were" is correct.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
25. 25Verb tenseStandard

    By the time the results are published next spring, the team _____ the experiment three times. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?By the time the results are published next spring, the team _____ the experiment three times. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ahad repeatedhad repeated
    • Bhas repeatedhas repeated
    • Cwill have repeatedwill have repeated
    • Drepeatedrepeated
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: will have repeatedwill have repeated

    The repetitions will be complete before a future moment, which is what the future perfect expresses. The past forms place the action before now rather than before next spring.The repetitions will be complete before a future moment, which is what the future perfect expresses. The past forms place the action before now rather than before next spring.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
26. 26ModifiersStandard

    Restored over three winters by a team of volunteers, _____ now draws visitors from across the county. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Restored over three winters by a team of volunteers, _____ now draws visitors from across the county. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Athe windmillthe windmill
    • Bthe restorationthe restoration
    • Cvisiting itvisiting it
    • Dtheythey
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: the windmillthe windmill

    The opening phrase describes whatever noun follows the comma, and only the windmill can have been restored over three winters. The volunteers, the restoration, and a gerund phrase all break that link.The opening phrase describes whatever noun follows the comma, and only the windmill can have been restored over three winters. The volunteers, the restoration, and a gerund phrase all break that link.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
27. 27PunctuationStandard

    The survey covered three districts _____ Ashfield, Bexley, and Carlow _____ over a period of six weeks. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The survey covered three districts _____ Ashfield, Bexley, and Carlow _____ over a period of six weeks. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A; and ;; and ;
    • B, and ,, and ,
    • C: and :: and :
    • D— and —— and —
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: — and —— and —

    A list inserted inside a sentence that already contains commas is set off by a pair of dashes. A second pair of commas would make the sentence impossible to parse.A list inserted inside a sentence that already contains commas is set off by a pair of dashes. A second pair of commas would make the sentence impossible to parse.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
28. 28Sentence boundariesFoundation

    The kiln reached temperature overnight _____ the glaze had still not melted by morning. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The kiln reached temperature overnight _____ the glaze had still not melted by morning. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Abutbut
    • B,,
    • Cwhichwhich
    • Dand thenand then
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: butbut

    Both halves are complete sentences with contrasting content, so a coordinating conjunction joins them. A comma alone would create a comma splice.Both halves are complete sentences with contrasting content, so a coordinating conjunction joins them. A comma alone would create a comma splice.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
29. 29Pronoun clarityStandard

    The archive lent three manuscripts to the university, and _____ were returned within a month. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The archive lent three manuscripts to the university, and _____ were returned within a month. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Athemthem
    • Bthese onesthese ones
    • Ctheythey
    • Ditit
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: theythey

    The subject of the second clause is plural and performs no action on anything, so it takes the plural subject pronoun "they". "Them" is an object form and cannot be the subject.The subject of the second clause is plural and performs no action on anything, so it takes the plural subject pronoun "they". "Them" is an object form and cannot be the subject.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
30. 30Subject-verb agreementStandard

    There _____ a bench and two lamps along the far wall of the reading room. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?There _____ a bench and two lamps along the far wall of the reading room. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Aisis
    • Bwaswas
    • Careare
    • Dhas beenhas been
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: areare

    In a sentence beginning with "there", the verb agrees with what follows it. The compound subject "a bench and two lamps" is plural, so the plural verb is correct.In a sentence beginning with "there", the verb agrees with what follows it. The compound subject "a bench and two lamps" is plural, so the plural verb is correct.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
31. 31PossessivesChallenge

    The society published _____ findings alongside two other _____ reports. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The society published _____ findings alongside two other _____ reports. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ait's ... societiesit's ... societies
    • Bits ... society'sits ... society's
    • Cits ... societies'its ... societies'
    • Dit's ... societies'it's ... societies'
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: its ... societies'its ... societies'

    The first blank needs the possessive "its", which takes no apostrophe; "it's" means "it is". The second refers to reports belonging to more than one society, which is the plural possessive "societies'".The first blank needs the possessive "its", which takes no apostrophe; "it's" means "it is". The second refers to reports belonging to more than one society, which is the plural possessive "societies'".

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
32. 32Parallel structureStandard

    The course covers reading maps, estimating distances, and _____ a compass. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The course covers reading maps, estimating distances, and _____ a compass. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ausingusing
    • Buse ofuse of
    • Chow to usehow to use
    • Dto useto use
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: usingusing

    The first two items are gerunds, so the third must be one too: reading, estimating, using.The first two items are gerunds, so the third must be one too: reading, estimating, using.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
33. 33PunctuationStandard

    The museum acquired three works this year _____ a drawing, a woodcut, and a small bronze. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The museum acquired three works this year _____ a drawing, a woodcut, and a small bronze. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A,,
    • B''
    • C;;
    • D::
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: ::

    The words before the blank form a complete clause introducing a list, which is where a colon belongs.The words before the blank form a complete clause introducing a list, which is where a colon belongs.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
34. 34Subject-verb agreementStandard

    A row of tall poplars _____ the northern edge of the field. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?A row of tall poplars _____ the northern edge of the field. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awere markingwere marking
    • Bmarkmark
    • Chave markedhave marked
    • Dmarksmarks
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: marksmarks

    The subject is "row", which is singular; "of tall poplars" is a modifier and cannot change the verb, even though "poplars" sits closest to it.The subject is "row", which is singular; "of tall poplars" is a modifier and cannot change the verb, even though "poplars" sits closest to it.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
35. 35Verb tenseChallenge

    By the time the inspectors arrive next week, the workshop _____ its safety review. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?By the time the inspectors arrive next week, the workshop _____ its safety review. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ahas completedhas completed
    • Bwill have completedwill have completed
    • Chad completedhad completed
    • Dcompletedcompleted
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: will have completedwill have completed

    The review will be finished before a stated future moment, which is exactly what the future perfect expresses. The past forms place it before now instead.The review will be finished before a stated future moment, which is exactly what the future perfect expresses. The past forms place it before now instead.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
36. 36ModifiersStandard

    _____, the recipe becomes much easier to follow. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?_____, the recipe becomes much easier to follow. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • AHaving weighed the ingredients in advanceHaving weighed the ingredients in advance
    • BWeighing the ingredients in advanceWeighing the ingredients in advance
    • COnce the ingredients are weighed in advanceOnce the ingredients are weighed in advance
    • DTo weigh the ingredients in advanceTo weigh the ingredients in advance
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Once the ingredients are weighed in advanceOnce the ingredients are weighed in advance

    The main clause's subject is "the recipe", which cannot weigh anything. Only the choice with its own subject and verb avoids attaching the action to the recipe.The main clause's subject is "the recipe", which cannot weigh anything. Only the choice with its own subject and verb avoids attaching the action to the recipe.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
37. 37Parallel structureStandard

    The program trains guides to identify birdsong, to read tide tables, and _____ visitors safely across the mudflats. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The program trains guides to identify birdsong, to read tide tables, and _____ visitors safely across the mudflats. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Athey leadthey lead
    • Bleadingleading
    • Cto leadto lead
    • Dfor leadingfor leading
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: to leadto lead

    The first two items use the infinitive, so the third must match: to identify, to read, to lead.The first two items use the infinitive, so the third must match: to identify, to read, to lead.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
38. 38Sentence boundariesStandard

    The path floods every spring _____ the council has never closed it. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The path floods every spring _____ the council has never closed it. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awhichwhich
    • B,,
    • Cand thenand then
    • Dyetyet
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: yetyet

    Both halves are complete sentences standing in contrast, so a coordinating conjunction joins them. A comma alone would create a splice.Both halves are complete sentences standing in contrast, so a coordinating conjunction joins them. A comma alone would create a splice.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
39. 39PossessivesStandard

    The three _____ signatures appear at the foot of the agreement. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The three _____ signatures appear at the foot of the agreement. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awitnesseswitnesses
    • Bwitness'switness's
    • Cwitnesses'switnesses's
    • Dwitnesses'witnesses'
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: witnesses'witnesses'

    "Three" fixes the number: the signatures belong to more than one witness, so the plural possessive applies — plural "witnesses" followed by an apostrophe."Three" fixes the number: the signatures belong to more than one witness, so the plural possessive applies — plural "witnesses" followed by an apostrophe.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
40. 40Pronoun clarityChallenge

    The foundation awarded the grant to the trust because _____ had already surveyed the site. Which choice completes the sentence so that its meaning is clear and it conforms to Standard English conventions?The foundation awarded the grant to the trust because _____ had already surveyed the site. Which choice completes the sentence so that its meaning is clear and it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Atheythey
    • Bitit
    • Cthe trustthe trust
    • Dthe organizationthe organization
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: the trustthe trust

    Two singular nouns precede the blank, so any pronoun would be ambiguous. Naming the trust is clumsy and correct, which is the trade this rule always makes.Two singular nouns precede the blank, so any pronoun would be ambiguous. Naming the trust is clumsy and correct, which is the trade this rule always makes.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
41. 41PunctuationStandard

    The expedition carried supplies for six weeks _____ flour, dried fish, and lamp oil. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The expedition carried supplies for six weeks _____ flour, dried fish, and lamp oil. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A;;
    • B::
    • C,,
    • D''
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: ::

    The words before the blank form a complete clause introducing a list, which is where a colon belongs.The words before the blank form a complete clause introducing a list, which is where a colon belongs.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
42. 42Subject-verb agreementChallenge

    Neither the two curators nor the director _____ seen the newly acquired painting. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Neither the two curators nor the director _____ seen the newly acquired painting. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awerewere
    • Bhavehave
    • Careare
    • Dhashas
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: hashas

    With "neither ... nor" the verb agrees with the nearer subject. "The director" is singular and sits closest, so the singular "has" is correct — the reverse of the usual case, where the plural is nearer.With "neither ... nor" the verb agrees with the nearer subject. "The director" is singular and sits closest, so the singular "has" is correct — the reverse of the usual case, where the plural is nearer.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
43. 43Verb tenseStandard

    The kiln had cooled for six hours before the potters _____ the door. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The kiln had cooled for six hours before the potters _____ the door. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awill openwill open
    • Bopenopen
    • Chave openedhave opened
    • Dopenedopened
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: openedopened

    The cooling is already marked as earlier with the past perfect "had cooled", so the later past action takes the simple past.The cooling is already marked as earlier with the past perfect "had cooled", so the later past action takes the simple past.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
44. 44ModifiersChallenge

    _____, the survey results were far more consistent than expected. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?_____, the survey results were far more consistent than expected. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • AOnce the responses were weighted by regionOnce the responses were weighted by region
    • BHaving weighted the responses by regionHaving weighted the responses by region
    • CWeighting the responses by regionWeighting the responses by region
    • DTo weight the responses by regionTo weight the responses by region
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Once the responses were weighted by regionOnce the responses were weighted by region

    The main clause's subject is "the survey results", which cannot weight anything. Only the clause with its own subject and verb avoids attaching the weighting to the results.The main clause's subject is "the survey results", which cannot weight anything. Only the clause with its own subject and verb avoids attaching the weighting to the results.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
45. 45Parallel structureStandard

    The apprenticeship involves shadowing a technician, keeping a daily log, and _____ a final assessment. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The apprenticeship involves shadowing a technician, keeping a daily log, and _____ a final assessment. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Ato sitto sit
    • Bfor sittingfor sitting
    • Cthey sitthey sit
    • Dsittingsitting
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: sittingsitting

    The first two items are gerunds, so the third must match: shadowing, keeping, sitting.The first two items are gerunds, so the third must match: shadowing, keeping, sitting.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
46. 46Sentence boundariesStandard

    The bridge was rebuilt in 1978 _____ the original stone piers were kept. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The bridge was rebuilt in 1978 _____ the original stone piers were kept. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Aand thenand then
    • Bwhichwhich
    • Cbutbut
    • D,,
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: butbut

    Both halves are complete sentences standing in mild contrast, so a coordinating conjunction joins them. A comma alone would be a splice.Both halves are complete sentences standing in mild contrast, so a coordinating conjunction joins them. A comma alone would be a splice.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
47. 47PossessivesStandard

    The two _____ accounts of the same night differ in several details. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The two _____ accounts of the same night differ in several details. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awitnesseswitnesses
    • Bwitnesses'switnesses's
    • Cwitnesses'witnesses'
    • Dwitness'switness's
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: witnesses'witnesses'

    "Two" fixes the number: the accounts belong to more than one witness, so the plural possessive applies — plural "witnesses" followed by an apostrophe."Two" fixes the number: the accounts belong to more than one witness, so the plural possessive applies — plural "witnesses" followed by an apostrophe.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
48. 48Pronoun clarityChallenge

    The archive lent the diary to the museum because _____ had the equipment to display it safely. Which choice completes the sentence so that its meaning is clear and it conforms to Standard English conventions?The archive lent the diary to the museum because _____ had the equipment to display it safely. Which choice completes the sentence so that its meaning is clear and it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Atheythey
    • Bthe institutionthe institution
    • Cthe museumthe museum
    • Ditit
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: the museumthe museum

    Two singular nouns precede the blank, so any pronoun would be ambiguous. Naming the museum is the clear choice, clumsy as repetition can feel.Two singular nouns precede the blank, so any pronoun would be ambiguous. Naming the museum is the clear choice, clumsy as repetition can feel.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
49. 49PunctuationStandard

    The workshop covers three techniques _____ throwing, trimming, and glazing. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The workshop covers three techniques _____ throwing, trimming, and glazing. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A''
    • B::
    • C;;
    • D,,
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: ::

    The words before the blank form a complete clause introducing a list, which is where a colon belongs.The words before the blank form a complete clause introducing a list, which is where a colon belongs.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
50. 50Subject-verb agreementStandard

    Each of the four proposals _____ a different timetable for the work. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Each of the four proposals _____ a different timetable for the work. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Aset outset out
    • Bsets outsets out
    • Cwere setting outwere setting out
    • Dhave set outhave set out
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: sets outsets out

    "Each" is singular and takes a singular verb; "of the four proposals" is a modifier that cannot change it."Each" is singular and takes a singular verb; "of the four proposals" is a modifier that cannot change it.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
51. 51Verb tenseStandard

    Since the footpath was resurfaced, walker numbers _____ steadily. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?Since the footpath was resurfaced, walker numbers _____ steadily. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Awere risingwere rising
    • Broserose
    • Chave risenhave risen
    • Dwill risewill rise
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: have risenhave risen

    "Since" marks a change that began in the past and continues, which is what the present perfect expresses."Since" marks a change that began in the past and continues, which is what the present perfect expresses.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
52. 52ModifiersChallenge

    _____, the report reads far more clearly than the earlier draft. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?_____, the report reads far more clearly than the earlier draft. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • AHaving renumbered the tablesHaving renumbered the tables
    • BRenumbering the tablesRenumbering the tables
    • CNow that the tables have been renumberedNow that the tables have been renumbered
    • DTo renumber the tablesTo renumber the tables
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Now that the tables have been renumberedNow that the tables have been renumbered

    The main clause's subject is "the report", which cannot renumber anything. Only the clause with its own subject and verb avoids attaching the action to the report.The main clause's subject is "the report", which cannot renumber anything. Only the clause with its own subject and verb avoids attaching the action to the report.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
53. 53Parallel structureStandard

    The course teaches students to identify rock types, to read a geological map, and _____ a field notebook. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The course teaches students to identify rock types, to read a geological map, and _____ a field notebook. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Afor keepingfor keeping
    • Bthey keepthey keep
    • Ckeepingkeeping
    • Dto keepto keep
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: to keepto keep

    The first two items are infinitives, so the third must match: to identify, to read, to keep.The first two items are infinitives, so the third must match: to identify, to read, to keep.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
54. 54Sentence boundariesStandard

    The mill closed in 1974 _____ its water wheel still turns for visitors. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The mill closed in 1974 _____ its water wheel still turns for visitors. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • A,,
    • Bwhichwhich
    • Cand thenand then
    • Dyetyet
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: yetyet

    Both halves are complete sentences standing in contrast, so a coordinating conjunction joins them; a comma alone would create a splice.Both halves are complete sentences standing in contrast, so a coordinating conjunction joins them; a comma alone would create a splice.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
55. 55PossessivesStandard

    The four _____ instruments are stored in a single case. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?The four _____ instruments are stored in a single case. Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Aplayersplayers
    • Bplayer'splayer's
    • Cplayers'splayers's
    • Dplayers'players'
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: players'players'

    "Four" fixes the number: the instruments belong to more than one player, so the plural possessive applies."Four" fixes the number: the instruments belong to more than one player, so the plural possessive applies.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
56. 56Pronoun clarityChallenge

    The gallery lent the sculpture to the college because _____ had a courtyard large enough to show it. Which choice completes the sentence so that its meaning is clear and it conforms to Standard English conventions?The gallery lent the sculpture to the college because _____ had a courtyard large enough to show it. Which choice completes the sentence so that its meaning is clear and it conforms to Standard English conventions?

    • Athe collegethe college
    • Bthe institutionthe institution
    • Citit
    • Dtheythey
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: the collegethe college

    Two singular nouns precede the blank, so a pronoun would be ambiguous. Naming the college is the clear choice.Two singular nouns precede the blank, so a pronoun would be ambiguous. Naming the college is the clear choice.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it