English Language and Communication
What this domain tests
English Language and Communication tests grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension and clear business writing. Expect error spotting, sentence correction, fill in the blanks, para jumbles, cloze tests and comprehension passages, with emphasis on precise usage rather than memorised jargon.
Core rules
- Make the verb agree with its subject, not with an intervening phrase. Each, every, either and neither are singular.
- Keep tense consistent and use the correct preposition or article. Uncountable nouns such as information and equipment do not take a plural -s.
- A modifier should sit next to the word it modifies. Avoid dangling participles.
- In comprehension, answer from the passage, not from outside knowledge. Distinguish stated fact from inference.
- In para jumbles, find the opening sentence and use pronouns, connectors and chronological logic to order the rest.
- In business communication, prefer concise, courteous and direct language. Use the active voice unless the doer is unknown or unimportant.
Worked example
Sentence: Each of the officers have submitted the report. The subject is Each, which is singular, so the verb should be has, not have. Correct: Each of the officers has submitted the report. The phrase of the officers does not change the number of the subject. Similarly, The list of items is on the desk is correct because the subject is list.
Traps that cost marks
Do not be misled by a plural noun next to a singular subject. Do not use a comma to join two independent clauses. Do not choose a difficult word merely because it sounds formal. Do not over-infer in comprehension. Check whether a question asks for the main idea or a specific detail.