English Language and Comprehension
What the section tests
The English Language and Comprehension domain checks whether a cadet can read a defence-related passage accurately and write clear, grammatically controlled English. Expect questions on grammar, vocabulary in context, sentence correction, synonyms and antonyms, and short passages followed by literal and inferential questions.
Core rules
- Subject–verb agreement: ignore parenthetical phrases; with neither...nor, the verb agrees with the nearer subject.
- Tense consistency: keep the main tense unless a time marker requires a shift.
- Pronoun reference: a pronoun must point to one clear noun.
- Modifiers: place a modifier next to the word it describes.
- Comprehension: distinguish stated detail from inference; the answer must be supported by the passage.
Worked example
Neither the cadets nor the instructor ___ ready. The nearer subject is singular instructor, so the correct verb is was: Neither the cadets nor the instructor was ready. If the order were reversed-Neither the instructor nor the cadets-the plural were would be correct.
Traps
Do not choose a word because it sounds formal. In comprehension, reject options that are true in general but not stated in the passage. Watch for double negatives, misplaced only, and shifts such as has went. For vocabulary, use the surrounding sentence, not a memorised first meaning.