English Language
English Language in UPSESSB TGT/PGT checks control of standard written English rather than literary scholarship. Expect grammar (tense, articles, prepositions, subject–verb agreement, narration, voice), vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms, one-word substitution, idioms), sentence correction/improvement, cloze and comprehension. Because the paper is bilingual, read the English item carefully and do not translate idioms word for word.
Core rules
- Subject–verb agreement: the verb agrees with the grammatical subject, not the nearest noun.
- Articles: a/an by sound, the for definite or specific reference.
- Tense: time markers decide tense; avoid unnecessary perfect forms.
- Voice and narration: keep tense and pronoun shifts consistent.
- Comprehension: answer from the passage, not from outside knowledge.
Worked example
'One of the boys ___ present.' Options: was/were. The subject is 'one', singular; 'of the boys' is a prepositional phrase. So 'was' is correct. If the sentence were 'The boys ___ present', 'were' would be correct.
Traps that cost marks
- 'One of the + plural noun' followed by a plural verb.
- Collective nouns: 'The jury is/are' depends on unity versus members.
- Since/for: since + point of time, for + duration.
- Idioms translated literally, such as 'discuss about' instead of 'discuss'.
- Choosing a comprehension option that is true but not stated in the passage.
Working method
For sentence correction, first locate the subject and finite verb, then check tense, number and preposition. In vocabulary, use the option in a short sentence to test fit. In comprehension, underline the line that supports your answer before marking the option.