Grammar Flashcards
1
Q
Inflation in the United States (has not and, we hope, never will reach) a rate of 20 percent a year.
A
has not and hopefully never will reach -> “hopefully” should only be used to mean “in a hopeful way” e.g. “The farmer searched the skies hopefully looking for signs of rain.
2
Q
Everybody (but) him has paid (their) dues; we (must seek) ways to make him understand the (need for) prompt payment.
A
-> Everybody is singular and therefore must “their” must be singular and changed to “his or her”
3
Q
I feel badly about the present conflict because I do not know how to resolve it without hurting either you or him.
A
-> The verb “feel” must be followed by the adjective “bad” NOT the adverb “badly”
4
Q
Unless two or more members object to him joining the club, we shall have to accept his application for membership.
A
-> gerunds take the possessive form, “him joining” should be changed to “his joining”
5
Q
Gerunds
A
verb forms ending in “-ing” that function as nouns. Gerunds: His first love is swimming. He gives swimming all of his energy and time. (Versus present participles): A great white shark ate his swimming coach. He he practices in safe swimming pools.
6
Q
Who vs. Whom
A
insert “him” or “he” into sentence. Him -> whom——-he -> who
7
Q
It is typical of military service for a skilled technician to be inducted and (then you spend your whole tour of duty peeling potatoes and cleaning latrines.)
A
then spend her whole tour of duty -> “technician” is a third person singular noun. The pronoun, therefore, should be the third person singular “her”
8
Q
I (should like) you and (he) to supply the (necessary data) for the annual statement that must be prepared (in advance of) the spring meeting.
A
-> “he” should be replaced with “him”—In general, use the same trick for “who” vs “whom” but instead “I” -> “he” and “me” -> “him”—-In this case, it might be “Timmy should like you and ME to do sth.” = him—because “timmy should like I to do sth.” does NOT work
9
Q
Neither the midlife career change applicant (nor) the young, inexperienced applicant (are finding) it easy (to begin) a career in data processing (because of) a shortage of job openings.
A
-> “are” should be changed to “is” —-Although it seems that there are more than 1 subjects being referenced, the “nor” implies a singular reference
10
Q
(By the time the bank guard closed the doors, a riot (had erupted) (due to) the long lines and (shortage of) tellers.
A
-> “due to” should be changed to “because of” or “as a result of”—–In general, “due to” will ALWAYS follow a to be verb
11
Q
Eminently vs. Imminently
A
Eminently -> very or obviously
Imminently -> about to happen
12
Q
John was (imminently qualified for the position because he had studied computer programming and how to operate an IBM machine.)
A
eminently qualified for the position because he had studied computer programming and the operation of an IBM machine -> can’t study HOW to operate something
13
Q
In general, the fate of Latin American or East Asian countries (will affect America more than it does) Britain or France.
A
will affect America more than it does -> (original sentence is correct)
14
Q
Affect vs. effect
A
AFFECT is a verb——-EFFECT is a noun—–E.g. “The arrows affected the aardvark” vs “The effect was eye-popping”
15
Q
(That) book is (liable) to become a best seller because it is well written, (full of suspense,) and (very) entertaining.
A
“liable” is incorrect word usage. It means “held legally responsible” NOT likely or susceptible
16
Q
His three children, Ruth, frank, and Ellis, are very talented youngsters, (but) the (latter) (shows) the (most) promise.
A
“latter” cannot be used with more than two items. “last” should be used instead
17
Q
(There are) (probably few) comeback stories (as moving as) (cycling’s stalwart champion,) Lance Armstrong.
A
stories should be compared to stores NOT to champion. It should read, “There are probably few comeback stories as moving as THAT OF cycling’s stalwart champion, Lance Armstrong.
18
Q
“Fewer” vs “less”
A
use “fewer” when referring to something you can actually count, such as M&Ms, miles, or books. Use “less” when referring to things you cannot count e.g. laughter, compassion, etc…EXCEPTION -> we can count time and money, but we still use less and NOT fewer
19
Q
The federal Fish and Wildlife Service (is expected to rule this week on whether to protect beluga sturgeon under the Endangered Species Act.
A
-> Original sentence is correct, it does NOT have to read “on whether to protect beluga sturgeon OR NOT”
20
Q
(While) rain has long been used as a water source in areas (where) well water is unavailable or tainted, the amounts collected are usually small and rarely (suitable to) consumption without treatment.
A
-> “suitable to” should be “suitable for”
21
Q
The (perspective) advantages this proposed merger can (bring to) our firm (greatly outweigh) any of the potential disadvantages (predicted by) opponents of the consolidation.
A
“perspective” is a noun and should be replaced with “prospective”
22
Q
(After removing their skins,) children sliced the carrots into sticks for dipping.
A
After removing the carrots’ skins, the children sliced the carrots into sticks for dipping. -> “carrots’” is a plural possessive form and is allowed
23
Q
The pale white petals of the gardenia possess a scent of great sweetness and (subtlety and the scent has) intrigued many perfume-makers.
A
subtlety, a scent that has -> “a scent” should be repeated to emphasize its importance
24
Q
The newspaper business in the United States faces a (challenge, being that it must reconcile the high-minded goal of informing readers with the commercial one of making money.)
A
challenge because it must reconcile the high-minded goal of informing readers with the commercial one of making money. -> DO NOT use “challenge; as such it must”—“as such” DOES NOT MEAN “therefore”
25
Acquaintances of Alexei have commented that he is at once annoying because of his unpredictability (but his imagination is still a delight.)
and delightful because of his imagination. -> "at once" means "both" or "at the same time"
26
The President (has designated) Senator Frank (as) one of the Congressmen who (are going) to attend the conference (on) nuclear waste disposal.
Original sentence is correct. "Congressmen" is plural and therefore "are" IS the required verb.
27
Also in the program (is) a taped (discussion with) the (late) George Balanchine and a (performance by) Patricia McBride and Edward Villlella of the pas de demux from "Diana and Acteon"
-> "is" should be "are" since there is MORE THAN ONE thing in the program. There is both the "taped discussion" AND the "performance"
28
In the nineteenth century, photography was a (window on) the world for curious members of the public, (few of whom) (could ever hope) to visit exotic lands (in person.)
No Error. "whom" IS correct. "whom" is referring to the public, so the resulting test sentence must be something like, "was a window on the world for HIM" which is correct
29
The movie's unlikely happy ending (came to pass as the result of an incredulous series) of lucky accidents.
resulted from an incredible series -> only PEOPLE can be "incredulous" it should be "incredible"
30
Brought up in a homogeneous, all-white, suburb, (it was only when I moved to San Francisco that I realized how exciting life in an ethnically diverse community can be.)
I did not realize how exciting life in an ethnically diverse community can be until I moved to San Francisco -> What was brought up in the suburbs? HE was. The correct answer MUST start with "I"----Just b/c there's only one option with the correct participial does NOT mean the question is somehow a "trick"
31
The newspaper business in the United States faces a (challenge, being that it must reconcile the high-minded goal of informing readers with the commercial one of making money.)
challenge because it must reconcile the high-minded goal of informing readers with the commercial one of making money. -> DO NOT use "challenge; as such it must"---"as such" DOES NOT MEAN "therefore"
32
Acquaintances of Alexei have commented that he is at once annoying because of his unpredictability (but his imagination is still a delight.)
and delightful because of his imagination. -> "at once" means "both" or "at the same time"
33
(Along) the curve of islands known as the Florida Keys (lies) a reef of living coral, (the only one) of (a kind) in the continental United States.
"a kind" should be "its kind"
34
In (those cities) (in which) public transportation is adequate, fewer traffic probles occur and pedestrians (are rarely) (involved in) accidents.
There is no error in this sentence. Although awkward, "in which" is allowed.
35
Intense preoccupation (on) technique (appears to be) (the one) trait that great pianists (have in) common.
the idiom should be "with" and not "on"
36
The research study (reveals) startling proof of a (constant) changing seafloor that (comprises) the major (part of) the underwater landscape.
"constant" should be "constantly" because "the seafloor is constantly changing", NOT "the seafloor is constant changing" ---- Here it can be useful to rearrange the words as done above for clarity
37
This multimedia exhibition, (part of a) worldwide (celebration of) the centenary of Balanchine's birth, (includes) photographs, designs, costumes, and set models, (complimented by) video tapes and excerpts from oral histories in the Library of Performing.
"complimented by" should be "complemented by" --- "complimented" with an "i" means to praise. "complemented" with an "e" means to make complete or whole. To remember, I receive lots of compliments
38
The Mozart Myths (looks at) (how) scholars have revised their predecessors' findings, selecting material that might support their own pet theories, and depicting Mozart, (variously,) (as) a childish victim, a Romantic genius, and an Enlightenment rebel.
No error. "variously" means "in diverse ways"--These depictions of Mozart are indeed various and thus the word is used correctly
39
(Contrary to what) moviegoers have (for so long) regarded as absolute truth, the mutiny of the "Bounty"'s seamen (was) not (provoked from) any unreasonable harshness on the part of Captain Bligh.
"provoked from" uses an improper idiom. It should be "provoked by".
40
To (most) Americans, the notion that free markets and democracy are (essential to) curing the world's ills (is) an (article of) faith.
No error. "essential to" uses the correct idiom. "article of faith" in itself is a very well known phrase. It means "an unshakable belief in something without need for proof or evidence" The phrase is therefore used correctly in this sentence.
41
Because James (had disobeyed) computer lab regulations (by) downloading games, the computer science teacher penalized him (by taking away) his computer privileges for an (indecisive) period.
"indecisive" means "unable to make a decision"---It SHOULD be "indefinite" which means "without a fixed or defined end"
42
(Perspective) visitors (to tropical countries) should plan to start taking anti malaria pills one to two weeks (prior to) (their setting out) on their trips.
"Perspective" means "a way of regarding sth."---it should be "prospective" which means "expected/future"
43
Given the long-standing (bias against) Victorian art, it is (unsurprising that) British artists of the later nineteenth century are (poorly) (represented in) the museum's collections.
"unsurprising", although awkward, IS A WORD
44
Many of us attempt to rewrite our personal stories to present ourselves in the best light; indeed, (there is an almost universal inclination to this.)
(we are almost universally inclined to do so)---best way to make clear who is doing what. In the original sentence "inclination to this" should be "inclination to do this". However, "there is" should be changed to "we" for clarity
45
The best known Iban (textiles, large ceremonial cloths called pua kumbu, whose designs depict) the flora and fauna of Borneo as well as figures form the spirit realm.
(textiles are large ceremonial cloths called pua kumba, whose designs depict)---"whose" is not only the possessive form of "who" but ALSO the possessive form of "which", e.g. "The play, whose style is rigidly formal, is typical of the period". Therefore, "whose" in this sentence is correct.
46
Exhibitions of some works by modern artists have spurred political controversy over (should they continue federal support of art)
continued federal support of art.---This is the most concise choice. Also, WHAT is provoking controversy? Cannot begin with the words, "should" or "whether", MUST begin with what IT IS that has drawn the controversy
47
(Though) "The Second World War", a book by Sir Winston Churchill, was (respectively) received when it was (first published), it (is not) highly regarded by historians today.
"respectively" means "separately or individually and in the order already mentioned" it cannot be used to mean "in a decent and morally reputable manner" it should be changed to "respectably"
48
The discrepancy between the richness of Shakespeare's works and (how much biographical information is lacking) has not diminished over centuries.
the lack of biographical information about Shakespeare.
49
(Because) his experience in the naval medical corps had been (rewarding), Bob (applied to) medical school after he (was discharged) from the navy.
No error. Although it is best to avoid, starting a sentence with the word "because" IS allowed and is used correctly in this sentence.
50
In the eighteenth century, (the English emphasis on the study of Greek and Latin allowed it) to produce some fine poetry written in classical verse forms.
an emphasis on the study of Greek and Latin allowed the English---It's unclear who "it" is, and needs to be replaced with "the English" for clarity.
51
(As a child growing up on a farm), my sister and I visited many county fairs, where my parents would exhibit their prize livestock.
Growing up on a farm---"a child" is inconsistent with the plural of "my sister" and "I".
52
Even minor usage and spelling errors (make the reading task harder and can cause readers to suspect) that the content of the document is also flawed.
makes the reading task harder and causes readers to suspect---the verb "make" corresponds to the element that is closest to it. In this case that would be "errors" which corresponds with "make" singular.
53
Today's political candidates may reach wide audiences by appearing on (television, but old-fashioned barnstorming still has value because it allows) the electorate to meet candidates face to face.
Sentence is correct.
54
Scientists predict technological changes in the next (century, they will be as dramatic as was) the development of the transcontinental railroad in the last century.
century as dramatic as---we need a semicolon in place of the comma, because none of the options use the word "and" after the comma. However, the only option with a semicolon is incorrect and therefore "century as dramatic as" is correct.
55
Air pollution caused by industrial fumes (has been studied) for years, (but) only recently (has) the harmful (effects) of noise pollution (become) known.
"has" needs to be changed to "have" to match the plural of "effects".
56
(Contrasting with) (most other) fifteenth-century rulers, Portuguese kings (could count on) the support of the aristocracy (in any) overseas ventures.
"Contrasting with" must be changed to "In contrast to". Portuguese kings are not actually "contrasting" anything, they are merely the subject of what IS being contrasted.
57
(As patients, the medical directors of the clinic believe that you) are entitled to know the reason for the increase in fees.
The medical directors of the clinic believe that as patients, you---The error in the first sentence lies in the incorrect comparison. the "medical directors" are NOT the "patients" and therefore should not come directly after the comma.
58
All the talk about controlling noise, keeping rivers clean, and planting trees (have not impressed people enough to be bringing) about major changes in laws and lifestyles.
has not impressed people enough to bring---"talk" in singular and must be used in conjunction with "has".
59
The opposing opinions expressed (were that the school should be torn down and, on the other hand, to keep it) as ahistorical landmark.
were that the school should be torn down and that it should be kept---do not need a phrase such as "on the other hand" to contrast the opinions. This has already been done in the second word of the sentence which clearly lets the audience know that the opinions are "opposing".
60
Many ancient Eastern rulers favored drinking vessels made of celadon porcelain (because of supposedly revealing the presence of poison) by cracking.
because it was supposed to reveal the presence of poison---although "vessels" is plural, it is obvious that what reveals the poison is not the vessels themselves but rather the material or the "celadon porcelain".
61
A fine orchestral performance will exhibit the skills of the musicians, their abilities to work as an ensemble, and (how he or she responds) to the conductor.
their responses---lack of parallelism in the list. "musicians" is plural and therefore "their" is needed to keep in line with the rest of the sentence.
62
She was concerned about how Hank would react to the incident, but (in searching his face, he did not seem to be) at all embarrassed or troubled.
a search of his face showed that he seemed not---the original second comma is not needed and makes the sentence confusing. It is also implied with the grammatical structure that Hank was the one "searching his face" which makes no sense.
63
Careful analysis of pictures of the Moon (reveal) that parts of the Moon's surface (are) (markedly) similar to parts of the (Earth's).
"reveal" should be "reveals" because "analysis" is singular. "analyses" is the plural form.
64
London (differs from) other cities, (such as) Paris and New York, (in that) its shopping areas are so (widely) spread out.
No error.
65
(Of) the two options, (neither) the system of appointing judges to the bench nor the process (of electing) judges (are) entirely satisfactory.
"are" should be changed to "is"---It all depends on which noun is closer to the verb e.g. "Neither Joseph nor his parents ARE going to the game" vs. "Neither his parents nor Joseph IS going to the game". The verb has the plural form of the CLOSEST noun.
66
Norwegian writer Sigrid Undset (is like) the novelist Sir Walter Scott (in) her use off historical backgrounds, but unlike (his books), she dwells on the physiological (aspects of) her characters.
"his books" should be changed to "him"---Incorrect comparison. "she" cannot be compared to "his books".
67
Despite research (on the diagnosis of) heart disease and the use of (increasingly) sophisticated technology (in its treatment), the condition of coronary arteries (is) still difficult to assess precisely.
No error. Although awkward, the sentence is correct and "on the diagnosis of" is correct.
68
No one (but) a fool would (readily) lend money to a person who (is known) (to be) a frequent gambler.
No error. "to be" is correct.
69
It was obvious that all of the candidates had planned (carefully) for the televised debate, (for each) (answer to) the opening question showed evidence (of having been) rehearsed.
No error. "of having been" is correct.
70
(For) any mayor of a vast metropolitan area, an (understanding of) current issues in all districts (is) not only (desirous) but also vital.
"desirous" should be changed to "desirable". In general, "desirous" means "the state of wanting something" e.g. "I am desirous of winning the Best Answer to this question because I want the points." vs. "desirable" means "to be wanted" e.g. "an understanding of current issues in all districts is not only desirable but also vital".
71
(To those of us) who (had heard) the principal of the high school talk (about) the budget, the news of the staff cuts (was not surprising).
No error.
72
Smallest of the copperhead snakes, the broad-banded copperhead, if disturbed, vibrates its tail (rapidly, and they are also known to secrete a) substance that smells like cucumbers.
rapidly and is also known to secrete a---"they" is inconsistent with the singular "its" and should be changed to "is".
73
According to journalist Howard Mansfield, (a person feels a need to reconnect with and recover the past; therefore) they preserve and endlessly recycle old objects.
many people feel a need to reconnect with and recover the past; therefore,---"a person" is inconsistent with "they preserve". Since "they preserve" cannot be changed "a person" must be changed to "many people" so that both are plural.
74
In addition to (having) a theoretical understanding of disease, medical students must have experience (in treating) patients if (he or she is) (to learn to) diagnose illnesses accurately.
"he or she is" should be changed to "they are"---"students" is plural but not "he or she" and since "students" is not an option, we must change "he or she" and make it plural.
75
Someone who uses a personal computer (to perform) only (such tasks as) word processing and sending e-mail (need not) buy the (most advanced) model available on the market.
No error. "such tasks as" is correct. "tasks such as" is incorrect
76
(Scandinavian people have been sailing the seas throughout recorded history, their having crisscrossed half the world by the end of the Middle Ages.)
Scandinavian people, who have been sailing the seas throughout recorded history, had crisscrossed half the world by the end of the Middle Ages.---There is a comma splice in the middle of the sentence which needs to be replaced either with a period or semicolon. "their" is also incorrect.
77
Many people (agree) that the full artistic (potential of) jazz was first (realized) in recordings made by Louis Armstrong with the band (known as) the Hot Five.
No error. "Realized" means both "become fully aware of" AND "cause to happen". The latter definition is correctly used in this sentence.
78
(Thanks to) the strength (of) the bonds between (its) constituent carbon atoms, a diamond has exceptional physical properties (that makes) it useful in a wide variety of industrial applications.
"that makes" should be changed to "that make" because "properties" is plural.
79
In 1912 the mayor of Tokyo gave thousands of cherry trees to the city of Washington, D.C., (which holds the annual) National Cherry Blossom Festival every year to commemorate the gift.
which holds the---"annual" is redundant and should be deleted since we already have the words "every year" towards the end of the sentence.
80
When I learned that both events were scheduled for the same evening, I found it difficult to choose between going to the basketball game (or attend) the rock concert.
and attending----do not need "or attending" the word "between" leads to two different options e.g. "I found it difficult to choose between Mike and David".
81
A fine orchestral performance will exhibit the skills of the musicians, their abilities to work as an ensemble, and (how he or she responds) to the conductor.
their responses---lack of parallelism in the list. "musicians" is plural and therefore "their" is needed to keep in line with the rest of the sentence.
82
She was concerned about how Hank would react to the incident, but (in searching his face, he did not seem to be) at all embarrassed or troubled.
a search of his face showed that he seemed not---the original second comma is not needed and makes the sentence confusing. It is also implied with the grammatical structure that Hank was the one "searching his face" which makes no sense.
83
Careful analysis of pictures of the Moon (reveal) that parts of the Moon's surface (are) (markedly) similar to parts of the (Earth's).
"reveal" should be "reveals" because "analysis" is singular. "analyses" is the plural form.
84
London (differs from) other cities, (such as) Paris and New York, (in that) its shopping areas are so (widely) spread out.
No error.
85
(Of) the two options, (neither) the system of appointing judges to the bench nor the process (of electing) judges (are) entirely satisfactory.
"are" should be changed to "is"---It all depends on which noun is closer to the verb e.g. "Neither Joseph nor his parents ARE going to the game" vs. "Neither his parents nor Joseph IS going to the game". The verb has the plural form of the CLOSEST noun.
86
Norwegian writer Sigrid Undset (is like) the novelist Sir Walter Scott (in) her use off historical backgrounds, but unlike (his books), she dwells on the physiological (aspects of) her characters.
"his books" should be changed to "him"---Incorrect comparison. "she" cannot be compared to "his books".
87
Despite research (on the diagnosis of) heart disease and the use of (increasingly) sophisticated technology (in its treatment), the condition of coronary arteries (is) still difficult to assess precisely.
No error. Although awkward, the sentence is correct and "on the diagnosis of" is correct.
88
No one (but) a fool would (readily) lend money to a person who (is known) (to be) a frequent gambler.
No error. "to be" is correct.
89
It was obvious that all of the candidates had planned (carefully) for the televised debate, (for each) (answer to) the opening question showed evidence (of having been) rehearsed.
No error. "of having been" is correct.
90
(For) any mayor of a vast metropolitan area, an (understanding of) current issues in all districts (is) not only (desirous) but also vital.
"desirous" should be changed to "desirable". In general, "desirous" means "the state of wanting something" e.g. "I am desirous of winning the Best Answer to this question because I want the points." vs. "desirable" means "to be wanted" e.g. "an understanding of current issues in all districts is not only desirable but also vital".
91
(To those of us) who (had heard) the principal of the high school talk (about) the budget, the news of the staff cuts (was not surprising).
No error.
92
Smallest of the copperhead snakes, the broad-banded copperhead, if disturbed, vibrates its tail (rapidly, and they are also known to secrete a) substance that smells like cucumbers.
rapidly and is also known to secrete a---"they" is inconsistent with the singular "its" and should be changed to "is".
93
According to journalist Howard Mansfield, (a person feels a need to reconnect with and recover the past; therefore) they preserve and endlessly recycle old objects.
many people feel a need to reconnect with and recover the past; therefore,---"a person" is inconsistent with "they preserve". Since "they preserve" cannot be changed "a person" must be changed to "many people" so that both are plural.
94
In addition to (having) a theoretical understanding of disease, medical students must have experience (in treating) patients if (he or she is) (to learn to) diagnose illnesses accurately.
"he or she is" should be changed to "they are"---"students" is plural but not "he or she" and since "students" is not an option, we must change "he or she" and make it plural.
95
Someone who uses a personal computer (to perform) only (such tasks as) word processing and sending e-mail (need not) buy the (most advanced) model available on the market.
No error. "such tasks as" is correct. "tasks such as" is incorrect
96
(Scandinavian people have been sailing the seas throughout recorded history, their having crisscrossed half the world by the end of the Middle Ages.)
Scandinavian people, who have been sailing the seas throughout recorded history, had crisscrossed half the world by the end of the Middle Ages.---There is a comma splice in the middle of the sentence which needs to be replaced either with a period or semicolon. "their" is also incorrect.
97
Many people (agree) that the full artistic (potential of) jazz was first (realized) in recordings made by Louis Armstrong with the band (known as) the Hot Five.
No error. "Realized" means both "become fully aware of" AND "cause to happen". The latter definition is correctly used in this sentence.
98
(Thanks to) the strength (of) the bonds between (its) constituent carbon atoms, a diamond has exceptional physical properties (that makes) it useful in a wide variety of industrial applications.
"that makes" should be changed to "that make" because "properties" is plural.
99
In 1912 the mayor of Tokyo gave thousands of cherry trees to the city of Washington, D.C., (which holds the annual) National Cherry Blossom Festival every year to commemorate the gift.
which holds the---"annual" is redundant and should be deleted since we already have the words "every year" towards the end of the sentence.
100
When I learned that both events were scheduled for the same evening, I found it difficult to choose between going to the basketball game (or attend) the rock concert.
and attending----do not need "or attending" the word "between" leads to two different options e.g. "I found it difficult to choose between Mike and David".
101
The survey indicated that workers in the United States (hope) that (his or her) wages will (keep pace with) the (rising) cost of living.
"workers" is plural and therefore "his or her" should be changed to "their".
102
In Angkor, Cambodia's ancient city, a (clever) designed reservoir, five miles long and one mile wide, (supplied fish) (and) helped farmers (to produce) three crops of rice annually.
"clever" should be changed to "cleverly" because "designed" is in the past tense.
103
Physcologists advise that before making any major changes in (your life, a person needs to focus on one's goals).
their lives, people should focus on their goals.---Cannot have a different pronoun form of "you" and "one" in the same sentence. Also, "their" is plural and needs to be connected with "people".
104
Some beaches are frequently contaminated by untreated sewage that flows into the (ocean, which can last for several days).
ocean; the contamination can last for several days.---as it is, it seems like the "ocean" is what can last for several days due to the placement of the comma.
105
To persuade his parents to let him study abroad, Kenneth described other students' positive experiences, (explains how foreign study would benefit his future career, and assured) them that he could get financial aid.
explained how foreign study would benefit his future career, and assured---IT IS A LIST. Error in the original sentence due to "explains" not being in past tense b/c "described" IS.
106
The Bactrian camel (is) well adapted to the extreme climate of its native Mongolia, (having) thick fur and under wool that (keeps) it warm in winter (and also) insulate against summer heat.
"keeps" should be changed to "keep"---The camel has TWO attributes that contribute to it keeping warm in winter, "thick fur and under wool" therefore the qualities are plural so the verb must also be plural.
107
Captive-bred whooping cranes have no parents to teach them migratory habits, (this fact explaining why they) must be led on their first migration by humans flying microlight aircraft.
so they---Note that in this sentence
we not only have the fact that whooping cranes must be led on their first migration by humans flying microlight aircraft, but also WHY they must: they have no parents. Therefore we must use "so they" and not just "they"
108
This intricate (pattern on) a butterfly's wings (is composed of) thousands of microscopic scales, each (of which) (is) the product of a single cell.
No error. "is" should be singular because it refers to the word "each" which is singular.
109
Running outdoors burns about five percent more calories than (if you are running on a treadmill, in part this is because there is) greater wind resistance outdoors.
running on a treadmill, in part because there is---This is the most concise answer, chosen over "running on a treadmill, which is in part because of the" which is too wordy.
110
Tornadoes form when large air masses of different temperature (collide, which results from either a change in) the direction or the speed of the wind.
collide as the result of a change in either---Don't really need a comma here. Think about if the sentence began with "large air masses of different temperatures collide" and then the obvious option would be "as the result of a change in either" The explanation is being given to explain why large air masses collide, NOT why tornadoes are formed.
111
My father insists that before (buying a used car, have it) thoroughly inspected by a reputable mechanic.
buying a used car, I have it---after the comma must come directly the subject that is "buying a used car" the only option that supports a pronoun is the one that uses "I".
112
Because traffic was (unusually heavy), Jim arrived ten minutes late (for) his job interview even though he had (ran desperately) all the way (from) the bus stop.
"ran desperately" should be "run desperately"---Because of the word "had" we know that it must be the past participle "run". If the "had" was not there, then it would read "even though he ran desperately all the way from the bus stop." so the word "had" is the condition.
113
Although she wrote 2,000 years ago, the Roman poet Sulpicia is still being (read: her poems are) available in English translation in a number of anthologies.
read: her poems are---a colon can be used both to list and to clarify/expand a clause. Here, the colon is being used to clarify/expand the proof that her poems are STILL being read today. Indeed, they have even been translated to English. The sentence after the colon supports the argument before it.
114
The apparently chaotic images in certain types of contemporary painting strike many viewers as both confusing (but) delightfully original.
and---the word "yet" is not needed as "confusing" and "delightfully original" are not opposites (or even close).
115
Because neither of the dolls (were) in its original box, the pair (would not be) worth (as much as) the toy collector (had) hoped.
"were" should be changed to "was" because "neither" is singular ---- Neither of the dolls WAS in its original box
116
The (figures cited) in the report do not (collaborate) the author's claim that small hospitals (generally provide) better patient care (than do) large ones.
"collaborate" means "corporate with an enemy, work jointly on an activity". The correct word is "corroborate" which means "establish or strengthen as with new evidence of facts, give evidence for" --- The figures do not "corroborate", or support with evidence, the author's claim. The sentence "small hospitals generally provide better patient care (than do) large ones." IS CORRECT (it doesnt even sound bad) the "do" is almost auxiliary. Look for other errors first.
117
(Located on) the firefly's lower abdomen (is) a mass of luminescent cells in which oxygen (combines) with a substance called luciferin (to produce) the insect's distinctive glow.
Sentence is correct. The "is" is referring to "a mass" which IS SINGULAR. It is NOT referring to the "cellS" ----- "are a mass" is INCORRECT grammar. "are masses" would be correct
118
The institute's exhibition of pictures of Arctic animals (displays a firm commitment) and a deep interest in the conservation of the world's endangered animal species.
displays a firm commitment to --- try removing "and a deep interest in" and then plug in the answers. Obviously, "displays a firm commitment the conservation of the world's endangered species" does NOT work.
119
In addition to scientific talent, Bob had artistic talent, (as is evidenced by the excellent drawings) in his papers about the nervous system.
as is evidenced by the excellent drawings --- "evidenced" IS a word and it means "be or show evidence of" which is the ONLY correct option in this sentence.
120
On discovery channel last night (they showed an informative program about new innovations in medical imaging, which you would have found interesting.)
there was an informative program about innovations in medical engineering, a program you would have found interesting. --- THEY is incorrect when talking of the television channel. NEW is redundant. WHICH must have a clear antecedent. It's not clear what WHICH is referring to, it could be "they" or "program" or "new innovations in medical imaging"
121
Antecedents
An antecedent is the noun or pronoun to which a pronoun refers. In the simple sentence, “John forgot to finish his homework,” John is the antecedent of the possessive pronoun his. Pronouns must agree with their antecedents in person, gender, and number; for the SAT, though, you only have to worry about pronoun number.
122
In the engineering sector (at the moment there are no jobs for those without experience, which makes it difficult for we) recent graduates to get started on our careers.
there are no jobs at the moment for those without experience, a fact that makes it difficult for us. ---The object US is required after the preposition FOR. Which requires a clear antecedent.
123
The mole is a nocturnal insectivorous mammal (regarded as pests by gardeners because of their burrowing activity spoiling) lawns and gardens.
The mole is singular and hence we need ITS not THEIR. After CONSIDERED we do not need AS.
124
If you are (sure that) you are in the (right,) you (would not) mind an independent (examination of) the case. No errorE.
After a present tense in the IF clause, we need a future tense in the main clause. WOULD should be changed to WILL.
125
A (census) of the island (revealed) a population of (only) 10,000 (people). No errorE.
PEOPLE is redundant. Population already implies people.
126
The engineer, who is renowned for his (ingenuity), (has designed) a (very unique) cooling system for our new plant (in) Spain. No errorE.
You cannot say very unique. [Just as you cannot say more superior.]
127
The manager tried hard to (effect) a change in company policy, (but) the owner, who steadfastly refused (to compromise), (overruled) him on every point. No errorE.
no error. "effect" can be a verb meaning "to bring about," "to cause," or "to achieve": He effected his escape with knotted bedsheets. You will effect these changes on Monday.
128
(Hopefully), we (will be) able to complete the building (before) the rainy season sets (in). No errorE.
Change to we hope because hopefully is an adverb and yet it is not modifying a verb. TALK TO SHIRLEY ABOUT THIS
129
He was (not merely) expected to contribute funds to the project, (but) to work as hard (as) the (other) patrons. No errorE.
To make the sentence construction parallel, put "not merely" after "expected".
130
None (of us) (knows) what the outcome of the battle (between) the coordinator and (us) will be. No errorE.
no error. "none" is singular and therefore "knows" is correct
131
Neither of my brothers (do) anything to make life better for (our) parents (who) are both suffering (from) arthritis. No errorE.
"neither" is singular and therefore "do" should be changed to "does"
132
Pollution and degradation of the environment (is, according to the commission's report, a matter of universal concern).
“Pollution and degradation” form a compound subject which needs a plural verb: are is correct.
133
A number of trainees (who) take this course every year (find) that (their) knowledge of mathematics (is) inadequate. No errorE.
No error. (With "a number" we need a plural verb.)
134
Neither Bradley, nor (more) recent critics who (have written) on Shakespeare's tragedies, (has) been able to give a convincing explanation for the (timing of) events in Othello. No errorE.
With the “neither... nor” construction, the verb agrees with the noun after the “nor”. Therefore we should change HAS to HAVE.
135
When Russell Wallace and Darwin (independently) proposed similar theories, Darwin (had) already accumulated extensive evidence (with which) to support (his) ideas. No errorE.
Ambiguous pronoun. Does the evidence support Darwin or Wallace, or both?
136
I (will) not object to (his) delivering the lecture (as) long as he is told not to make personal attacks (on) his critics. No errorE.
no error. ASK SHIRLEY
137
I agree (that) a knowledge of Latin is helpful (to build) a good English vocabulary, (but) I do not think I have the capacity (to) study the subject at the moment. No errorE.
"to build" is the incorrect idiom and should be changed to "in building"
138
(Determination of) the long-term (effects of) aerosols on the upper atmosphere (is) currently one of the (more challenging) problems in climate research. No errorE.
"more challenging" should be changed to "most challenging" --- ONLY USE MORE WHEN YOU'RE COMPARING TWO THINGS
139
series is singular
series is singular. The series of letters CONTAINS ---is correct
140
The unfortunate accident (that caused) the explosion (was) (extensively) reported in all the local newspapers and (national) television. No errorE.
should add "on" in front of "national"
141
Suzanne (recounted) her (improbable) tale (with) enthusiasm and (in a convincing manner). No errorE.
Two items linked by "and" need to be parallel. Change “in a convincing manner” to “conviction”.
142
He is not sure (if) he (should) buy the new computer now (or) wait until he (receives) his next bonus. No errorE.
"if" should be changed to "whether"
143
The archivist (had) not (only) a deep (interest) but also a clear understanding of the historical documents (in) the museum. No error.E
Ellipsis (omission of an essential word). We need to say “interest in”.
144
Was the woman (who) you think you (saw) leaving the building (wearing) a (nurse's) uniform? No errorE.
"who" should be "whom" --- Answer could be "Who? You mean him?"
145
I do not wish (to make) a formal complaint, but I would have been (better pleased) if you (gave) the award to the person (who) best deserved it. No errorE.
Change GAVE to HAD GIVEN because the verb in the previous clause is in the past conditional tense.
146
It (will be) hard to soothe your mother now that you have so (aggravated) her by refusing to take her (eminently) sensible (advice). No errorE.
Do not use aggravated to mean annoyed.
147
None of the presents I (received) on my birthday this year (was) (equally) as memorable as the necklace you (gave) me last year. No errorE.
"none" is singular and therefore "was" IS CORRECT. "equally" should be deleted, however, because it is redundant.
148
The racing champion (had) made (no mention) in (his) speech of the mechanics on (whom) his success had depended. No errorE.
"have" shouldn't be there. Verb tense error: “had” is incorrect as the past perfect tense is not needed here. The verb should be “made” and not “had made”.
149
We have come to acknowledge that history teaches important lessons (which, if they are ignored, you put everyone in jeopardy).
Must be consistent with pronouns. "that we ignore at our own peril."
150
(While) visiting New York, the tourist (group thought) that the city's smog problem (was worse) than (Los Angeles).
"Los Angeles" should be "that of Los Angeles"
151
Even though the weather (was abysmal), Anika arrived twenty minutes early (for) her class since she had (ran quickly) all the way (from) the parking lot.
"ran quickly" should be "run quickly"
152
To claim that an advertisement persuades whomever (one) (wants it) to persuade is often (discounting) the intelligence and (even) the aptitude of an audience.
lack of parallelism. "discounting" does not match "to claim". it should be "to discount"
153
The reason Mark Twain's writings utilize satire to address social questions is (that satire can both entertain readers and provoke thought and controversy).
original is correct. "The reason" requires "that". NOT "is because"
154
The school's stringent dress codes and guidelines for proper conduct (were not impulsive but a need) to prevent lewd and offensive behavior from distracting the student population.
"resulted not from impulse but from a need" --- You cannot say that the dress codes were impulsive, only the reason for establishing them can be.
155
Despite its efficient and widespread use in America, the synthetic pesticide DDT was (banned: its effects were) found to be extremely dangerous for humans and the environment.
original is correct.
156
The existence of rundown "welfare hotels" (in which) homeless families (reside) at enormous (cost to) the taxpayer provides a shameful (commentary of) America's commitment to house the poor.
"commentary of" should be "commentary on"
157
(Even) well-known fashion designers have difficulty staying on top (from one season to another) (because of) (changeable moods) and needs in the marketplace.
No error. "because of" is correct
158
Arms control has been (under discussion) for decades with the former Soviet Union, (but) solutions (are still) (alluding) the major powers.
"alluding" should be changed to "eluding". --- "alluding" means to refer to indirectly, while "eluding" means to evade.
159
The poems (with which) he occasionally (desired to regale) the fashionable world were (invariably bad)-stereotyped, bombastic, and even ludicrous.
no error.
160
(Because) the door was locked and bolted, the police (were) forced (to break) into the apartment (through) the bedroom window.
no error. "Police" IS plural
161
The child is (neither encouraged to be critical or to examine) all the evidence before forming an opinion.
not encouraged either to be critical or to examine ---- the words neither...nor and either...or should be placed before the two items being discussed--"to be critical" and "to examine". They must be DIRECTLY before the two items being discussed...CAN NOT say "neither encouraged to be critical..." because "neither" is before "encouraged". It must read "encouraged neither to be critical..."
162
When this war is over, no nation will (either be isolated in war or peace).
be isolated neither in war or in peace -- "be isolated in neither war nor peace" is almost correct except it should say "be isolated in neither war nor in peace"
163
Composer Jonathan Larson created the musical Rent in 1996, it takes much of the storyline and characters from La Boheme.
This sentence uses the phrase "much of" to refer to both something uncountable (the storyline) and something countable (the characters); "much of" can refer only to uncountable things.
164
(Though it began) as (a protest on) traditional theology, the Protestant Reformation (created) a new set of traditions (in its) own era.
should be "protest against". Cannot protest "on".
165
Frank Hessler's map of North America, which (was discovered) in 1928, is the third (recorded) map (where) Canada and Mexico are depicted as (distinct from) the U.S.
The word "where" refers only to specific location, and in this case it refers to the map, not "Canada and Mexico". The phrase "in which" is more appropriate.
166
Confessions of violent crimes nationwide skyrocketed last year, (but in some towns it) remained steady of decreased.
"but in some towns such confessions" ---Can't be "but in some towns they" because the pronoun THEY is ambiguous and could refer to either the "violent crimes" OR the "confessions"
167
The most efficient way for cells to harvest energy stored in food is through (cellular respiration, this is part of the process by which) adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is produced.
cellular respiration, a part of the process by which --can't say "a part of the process where" because where should only be used for physical locations, not for a process.
168
The bookstore sold three times as many textbooks this week (as they ordinarily do) in an entire month.
as it ordinarily sells ----- There is a lack of parallelism here. A + verb + as many + as A + some other time frame. Remember that for tricky questions, if three of the five answers start with the same structure, then it is most likely one of those. In this case there were three options available starting with "as" and only two with "than". This isn't always true but it's better than nothing.
169
The 2005 movie "Beowulf & Grendel" was filmed in (Iceland, but one might suppose it to be) Denmark, where the poem "Beowulf" was originally set.
Iceland, not, as one might suppose, in ------this is correct. In general, avoid semicolons if there is another option available that doesn't use them (and works).
170
Frankenstein
written in Mary Shelley in 1818. Written by a woman with no literary training/background and was received poorly purely because its author was female. Now a venerated text
171
The Grapes of Wrath
written by John Steinbeck in 1939. It woefully points to the fact that the migrants' great suffering is caused not by bad weather or mere misfortune but by their fellow human beings.
172
Trail of Tears
1930s forced relocation of American Indians from their own territory (THOUSANDS of years of history) to designated reservations -- lessons to be learned from the past, power imbalance, etc...
173
The Marshall Plan
1948 financial aid program from US -> Europe after World War II -- shows benevolence, forced dependency upon the US, instilling power over a region, fear of Communist expansion, etc...
