English Language and Comprehension
The English paper mixes grammar accuracy with reading speed: sentence correction, gap-filling, synonyms and antonyms, and a comprehension passage whose answers are all traceable to the text.
Grammar that is actually tested
- Subject–verb agreement: the verb follows the head noun, not the noun nearest it - "The box of pens is heavy." Each, every, either and neither are singular. With neither…nor, the verb agrees with the nearer subject.
- One of the…: "one of the + plural noun + singular verb"; but in "one of the students who…", the relative pronoun refers to students and takes a plural verb.
- Present perfect with since and for; tense consistency inside a paragraph.
- Articles and fixed prepositions: depend on, consist of, prefer X to Y, capable of.
- Conditionals: "If I were you, I would…"
Comprehension method
Read the questions first, then locate the exact line supporting each answer. Separate what is stated from what is merely implied. For pronoun-reference items, trace back to the last matching noun. For vocabulary-in-context, substitute each option into the original sentence and keep the one that preserves the meaning.
Worked example
"Each of the players ___ (have/has) received a medal." Answer: has. Each is a singular indefinite pronoun and is the head of the subject; the phrase of the players is a prepositional modifier and cannot change the verb.
Traps
- Being pulled by a plural noun sitting right before the verb.
- Comma splices and run-on sentences in the correction item.
- Choosing a synonym by general meaning while ignoring tone.
- Misplaced modifiers and double negatives.