Writing Skills Test
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Sam grew up in Chicago and is familiar with _______ weather. A. Illinois B. Illinois's C. Arkansas D. Arkansa's
Illinois's
Word Choice: Which sentence is correct? A. Irregardless of what your manager says, you should be able to go skiing in Vermont this winter. B. Regardless of the circumstances, you should be able to go skiing in Vermont this winter.
Regardless of the circumstances, you should be able to go skiing in Vermont this winter.
Capitalization: Heidi doesn't really want to work in an _____ . A. Accounting Department B. accounting department C. Accounting department
accounting department
Word Choice: I will _____ the value of the merger and then _____ my manager. A. apprise, appraise B. apprise, apprise C. appraise, appraise D. appraise, apprise
appraise, apprise
Subject-Verb Agreement: Boots of all styles and colors _____ on sale. A. wasn't B. is C. isn't D. are
are
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Dana cares about environmental issues; she insisted that her _______ gas mileage be high. A. car B. cars's C. car's D. cars'
car's
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that best completes the sentence. Olivia will receive our ________ response. A. cheerful, prompt B. cheerful prompt
cheerful, prompt
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. Because his attorney was unwilling to adjust the bill, he decided to hire a new one. B. In view of the fact that his attorney was unwilling to adjust the bill, he decided to hire a new one.
Because his attorney was unwilling to adjust the bill, he decided to hire a new one.
Verb Tense: Choose the word the best completes the sentence. Sam (lay, laid) his textbook on the table yesterday. A. lay B. laid
laid
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following is generally not used as a transitional word or phrase? A. powerful B. , as well, C. in summary D. however E. in contrast
powerful
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. The Mix Café offers the finest in whole-wheat sandwiches, soups, salads, and _____ . A. demonstrating how to serve the customer B. how to serve the customer C. serving the customer D. service
service
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. This is (her, she). (Phone conversation) A. she B. her
she
Capitalization: Randy is studying these subjects this ___ and German. A. Spring: biology B. spring: Biology C. spring: biology D. Spring: Biology
spring: biology
Punctuation: Pat is studying these subjects this _____ and English. A. summer: biology B. summer, biology, C. summer; biology
summer: biology
Verb Tense: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The analysis of possible computer programs (take, takes) at least a month. A. takes B. take
takes
Punctuation: All _____ contact information must be kept confidential. A. employees B. employee's C. employees'
employees'
Word Choice: The second edition is different _____ the first one. A. than B. to C. from
from
Nouns: The _________ asks for more time before the case is decided. A. judges B. jurors C. witnesses D. jury
Jury
Comparisons: It seems _____ we should not be sneaking into the candy shop. A. like B. as if
as if
Verb Tense: Everyone in the accounting and human resource departments _____ helpful. A. were B. was
was
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence expresses the ideas completely without any unnecessary words or phrases? A. Coffee drinking, in the final analysis, not only increases productivity but as a matter of fact it is also good for your health. B. Coffee drinking, in the final analysis, not only increases productivity but in a very real way it also improves health, too. C. Coffee drinking not only increases productivity but is also good for your health, according to several recent objective scientific studies. D. Coffee drinking, in the final analysis, not only increases productivity but is also good for your health for all intents and purposes.
Coffee drinking not only increases productivity but is also good for your health, according to several recent objective scientific studies.
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? The work session was productive, however, we realized that we needed to do more research. A. Fused (run-on) sentence B. Correct C. Fragment D. Comma Splice
Comma Splice
Nouns: Choose the incorrect noun form. The companies' assets were insufficient to pay its debts to its creditors A. companies' B. assets C. debts D. creditors
Companies'
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? But Johnathan doesn't want to volunteer for the announcer's position. A. Comma Splice B. Fragment C. Correct D. Fused (run-on) sentence
Correct
Sentences: Which choice is best? A. Earth was created in 4004 B.C. in the evening before October 23 this estimate was made by Archbishop James Ussher in 1650. B. Earth was created in 4004 B.C. in the evening before October 23; this estimate was made by Archbishop James Ussher in 1650. C. Earth was created in 4004 B.C. in the evening before October 23 an estimate made by Archbishop James Ussher in 1650. D. Earth was created in 4004 B.C. in the evening before October 23, this estimate was made by Archbishop James Ussher in 1650.
Earth was created in 4004 B.C. in the evening before October 23; this estimate was made by Archbishop James Ussher in 1650.
Capitalization: My _____ Foster will not be able to accept the award at the banquet. A. grandfather B. Grandfather
Grandfather
Capitalization: Which sentence is capitalized correctly? A. He is the author of the Tiger in the Garden, which won the booker prize and many other awards. B. He is the Author of The Tiger in the Garden, which won the Booker Prize and many other Awards. C. He is the author of The Tiger In The Garden, which won the Booker prize and many other awards. D. He is the author of The Tiger in the Garden, which won the Booker Prize and many other awards.
He is the author of The Tiger in the Garden, which won the Booker Prize and many other awards.
Pronouns: My friend and _____. A. I could find all of the reports except yours B. I could find all of the reports except your's C. me could find all of the reports except your's D. me could find all of the reports except yours
I could final all the reports except yours
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. In the event that the meeting runs late, please deliver this report to my supervisor. B. In the event the meeting runs late, please deliver this report to my supervisor. C. If the meeting runs late, please deliver this report to my supervisor.
If the meeting runs late, please deliver this report to my supervisor.
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following sentences does not show bias? A. Mr. Nelson is crippled; therefore, we will be installing a ramp by the front door. B. My chairperson, Mr. Oladipodhuri, can be difficult to meet with; he is gone every Friday. C. Let's invite Mr. David Waqar and Ms. Drayson to the meeting. D. The average worker in Waco earns about $8.00 an hour; he is not able to pay a mortgage on this salary.
My chairperson, Mr. Oladipodhuri, can be difficult to meet with; he is gone every Friday.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. Papers handed in today will receive 20 bonus points. B. Papers that are handed in today will receive 20 bonus points.
Papers handed in today will receive 20 bonus points.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. Please join our team today, and you will be glad you did. B. It would be appreciated if you would join our team today.
Please join our team today, and you will be glad you did.
Capitalization: Jessica is from the _____, but she travels _____ from Dallas each morning. A. south south B. south West C. South west D. South West
South west
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? _____ provides excellent stock market analysis. A. "The Washington Post" B. The Washington Post C. "The Washington Post" D. The Washington Post
The Washington Post
Capitalization: Which sentence is capitalized correctly? A. The most beautiful street in Chicago is michigan avenue, which runs right past the Art Institute Of Chicago. B. The most beautiful street in Chicago is Michigan avenue, which runs right past the Art Institute of Chicago. C. The most beautiful Street in Chicago is Michigan Avenue, which runs right past the Art institute of Chicago. D. The most beautiful street in Chicago is Michigan Avenue, which runs right past the Art Institute of Chicago.
The most beautiful street in Chicago is Michigan Avenue, which runs right past the Art Institute of Chicago.
Capitalization: I'm from the west, but I travel south from Waco each afternoon. A. West B. No other words should be capitalized. C. South D. West, South
West
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. (Who, Whom) will choose the director for the project? A. Whom B. Who
Who
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following sentences does not contain a cliché? A. The coach told us this season was going to be a whole new ball game. B. You need to get a fresh start in analyzing this issue. C. Sometimes students need to think outside the box to solve a problem. D. The human resources department somehow let Matthew fall through the cracks.
You need to get a fresh start in analyzing this issue.
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following sentences does not contain a cliché? A. Anna always wants to call the shots in our project. B. Nathan feels he is fighting an uphill battle in meeting the requirements. C. You seem to be fighting a very difficult battle with your new supervisor. D. I can already see the writing on the wall in my accounting class.
You seem to be fighting a very difficult battle with your new supervisor.
Comparisons: We need to be sure we circulate the memo _____ the staff. A. between B. among
among
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The questions for this exam (is, are) in the textbook. A. is B. are
are
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The first group of _____ will be submitting a report by Monday. A. attorny's B. attornies C. attornies' D. attorneys
attorneys
Adjectives and Adverbs: Jeff felt ____ when his team project was late. A. bad B. badly
bad
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. The MIS chairperson would like to find a business writing professor who can not only write long grammar books _____ . A. but also deliver long lectures B. but also lectures for a long time C. but also giving long lectures
but also deliver long lectures
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. The sociology course in the spring is surprising, _____ . A. fun, fast-paced and holds everyone's interest B. fun, fast-paced, and holds everyone's interest C. everyone enjoys it, and is interesting D. fun, fast-paced, and interesting
fun, fast-paced, and interesting
Capitalization: My _____, Mrs. Elisa Foster, will be accepting the award for my grandfather. A. grandmother B. Grandmother
grandmother
Verb Tense: Either the president or the top two executives _____ prospective employees. A. greets B. greet
greet
Word Choice: After reading that the villain in the novel was _____ , Joy _____ the cover page on the library display. A. hanged, hanged B. hung, hanged C. hanged, hung D. hung, hung
hanged, hung
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that best completes the sentence. The (hardest/harder) part of writing the report is getting started. A. hardest B. harder
hardest
Verb Tense: Nick, along with the rest of the team, ______ well. A. have played B. has played
has played
Pronouns: Each new job candidate must be accompanied to _____ interview. A. his or her B. their
his or her
Nouns: The swim team likes to celebrate, but finally ______ on the bus. A. are B. sit C. gather D. is
is
Parallelism: In 2016, Waco's Torchy's Tacos sold 765,000 tacos. In 2017, _____ . A. 900,000 will probably be sold B. taco sales will probably reach 900,000 C. it will probably sell 900,000
it will probably sell 900,000
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. My personal goals are to win new clients, _____ . A. keeping old clients happy, and finding new opportunities B. keep old clients happy and find new opportunities C. keeping old clients happy, and find new opportunities D. keep old clients happy, and find new opportunities
keep old clients happy, and find new opportunities
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that best completes the sentence. Our ________ office handbook outlines proper document formats. A. recently revised B. recently-revised
recently revised
Adjectives and Adverbs: Our _____ office handbook outlined proper document formats. A. recently revised B. recently-revised
recently revised
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following is generally not used as a transitional word or phrase? A. nevertheless B. in conclusion C. simply D. in comparison E. second
simply
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that best completes the sentence. The traffic on I-35 over the holiday moved (slow, slowly). A. slowly B. slow
slowly
Verb Tense: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Leoncia (snuck, sneaked) into the theater last night. A. snuck B. sneaked
sneaked
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. As an accounting student, you are expected to study seven days a week, to work out five days a week, and _____ . A. must write an essay two days a week B. write an essay two times a week C. to write an essay two days a week
to write an essay two days a week
Verb Tense: If I ____ worth a million dollars, I would still enjoy working here. A. were B. was
were
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Jessica did not indicate ______ going to be at the meeting. A. their B. your C. whose D. who's
who's
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? So I ask you, _____ A. "When will we admit defeat?" B. "When will we admit defeat"? C. "When will we admit defeat."
"When will we admit defeat?"
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. John will sell this to you for the sum of $50.00. B. John will sell this to you for $50.
John will sell this to you for $50.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. During the preceding year, the company accelerated productive operations. B. Last year, the company sped up operations.
Last year, the company sped up operations.
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? Ann-Marie _____ in charge of the final announcement. A. Sanchez who is our best speaker was B. Sanchez, who is our best speaker, was C. Sanchez, who is our best speaker was
Sanchez, who is our best speaker, was
Punctuation: This _____ health benefits are available immediately. A. companies' B. company's C. companys' D. companies
company's
Punctuation: I wanted to work for a small _____ I also wanted great benefits. A. company, however, B. company, however C. company; however,
company; however,
Word Choice: The policy to _____ all company employees from theft will ____ everyone's protection. A. ensure, ensure B. ensure, insure C. insure, ensure D. insure, insure
insure, ensure
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that best completes the sentence. Our department needs an _____ person for the job. A. intelligent enterprising B. intelligent, enterprising
intelligent, enterprising
Comparisons: Maria asked Rani to put the file _____ the cabinet. A. in B. into
into
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The variety of cupcakes on display (is, are) mouth-watering. A. is B. are
is
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. When choosing a desk height, I think 12 inches (is, are) significant. A. are B. is
is
Subject-Verb Agreement: The human resources staff (is, are) located on Austin Avenue. A. are B. is
is
Subject-Verb Agreement: If you don't like your Zappos shoes, you just ______ them in the postage-paid container. A. gives B. return C. returns D. sends
return
Subject-Verb Agreement: Zappos _____ shoes by mail order only. A. make B. sell C. provide D. sells
sells
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. With (whom, who) will I go to the meeting? A. whom B. who
whom
Comparisons: _____ the six of them, Ryan runs the fastest. A. Between B. Among
Among
Modifiers: Which choice uses modifiers correctly? A. Coming into the class, strawberry cupcakes were waiting. B. Coming into the class, I wanted a chocolate and mocha cupcake. C. Coming into the class, the thing I was hungry for was a French vanilla cream cupcake.
Coming into the class, I wanted a chocolate and mocha cupcake.
Modifiers: In order to complete the research paper, the entire third section had to be reworked. A. Correct B. Dangling modifier C. Misplaced modifier
Dangling modifier
Capitalization: In the spring semester, I took both english and journalism. A. English, Journalism B. Spring, English, Journalism C. English
English
Capitalization: The office manager from the Baylor _____ stopped by our Baylor Choir booth. A. english department B. English Department C. english Department D. English department
English Department
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? Some students at Baylor text while they're eating many like to talk with their friends when they're relaxing. A. Correct B. Fused (run-on) sentence C. Fragment D. Comma splice
Fused (run-on) sentence
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The president of the firm didn't now about the report. _____ ramifications will be significant. A. Its's B. Its C. Its' D. It's
Its
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. My English class is studying _____ parables. A. Jesus B. Jesus' C. Jesus'es D. Jesuses
Jesus'
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following sentences does not show bias? A. Ben asked the stewardess for a quart of Cherry Garcia ice cream. B. Randy's chairman asked him to host the awards banquet. C. Sam is an excellent salesman. D. Mr. Nelson requires a wheelchair to get around; therefore, we will be installing a ramp by the front door.
Mr. Nelson requires a wheelchair to get around; therefore, we will be installing a ramp by the front door.
Word Choice: Which sentence is correct? A. My lawyer claimed that they could not prosecute the case because there were no precedence. B. My lawyer claimed that they could not persecute the case because there were no precedents. C. My lawyer claimed that they could not persecute the case because there were no precedence. D. My lawyer claimed that they could not prosecute the case because there were no precedents.
My lawyer claimed that they could not prosecute the case because there were no precedents.
Capitalization: Did you see the article in newsweek titled "The global consequences of using crops for fuel?" A. Newsweek, Global Consequences Of Using Crops For Fuel B. Newsweek, Global Consequences, Using Crops, Fuel C. Newsweek
Newsweek, Global Consequences, Using Crops, Fuel
Capitalization: Many sales managers and marketing directors will attend the seminar. A. Sales Managers, Marketing Directors, Seminar B. Sales, Marketing C. No other words should be capitalized.
No other words should be capitalized.
Capitalization: Our company has never had _____ McMurry visit. A. President B. president
President
Capitalization: We all believe _____ Gates will enjoy living in France for a year. A. President B. president
President
Word Choice: Which sentence is correct? A. The tax cuts have a greater impact on schools than on city services. B. The tax cuts affect schools more then city services. C. The tax cuts impact schools more than city services. D. The tax cuts effect schools more than city services.
The tax cuts have a greater impact on schools than on city services.
Word Choice: Find the mistake in the sentence. By the time the central bank moved to stabilize their currency, it had all ready dropped by ten percent. A. The words all ready should be already. B. The word to should be too. C. The word their should be they're. D. The word their should be there.
The words all ready should be already.
Nouns: Which sentence is correct? A. The workers's position is that, as employees, they have not been treated fairly. B.The worker's position is that, as employees, they have not been treated fairly. C. The workers' position is that, as employees, they have not been treated fairly. D.The worker position is that, as employees, they have not been treated fairly
The workers' position is that, as employees, they have not been treated fairly.
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. Baylor is hiring managers, programmers, and _____ . A. people who are accountants B. accountants C. people who work in accounting
accountants
Nouns: Choose the phrase that best completes the sentence. The ______ mentor attended the luncheon. A. boy's and girl's B. boys' and girls' C. boy and girls' D. boys and girls
boys and girls'
Word Choice: All the board members _____ Brett have arrived. A. accept B. except
except
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. One-half of the business school (is, are) an open space. A. are B. is
is
Pronouns: Google is an exciting company because of _______ innovations. A. their' B. its C. it's D. there
its
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The members of the sub-committee will be rendering a decision on ______ findings. A. they're B. their C. there D. its
their
Pronouns: You said to give the report to ______? A. whom B. who
whom
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? A. "My primary goal for 2017 is to install a free coffee bar, said the dean, for all the business students." B. "My primary goal for 2017 is to install a free coffee bar, said the dean, for all the business students". C. "My primary goal for 2017 is to install a free coffee bar," said the dean, "for all the business students." D. "My primary goal for 2017 is to install a free coffee bar," said the dean, "for all the business students".
"My primary goal for 2017 is to install a free coffee bar," said the dean, "for all the business students."
Subject-Verb Agreement: Which sentence contains the correct verb form? A. About 75 percent of the students plans to come to Diadeloso. B. About 75 percent of the Students plan to come to Diadeloso.
About 75 percent of the students plan to come to Diadeloso.
Capitalization: The ______ are primed to win a football championship this year. A. Baylor Bears B. baylor bears C. Baylor bears D. baylor Bears
Baylor Bears
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. Due to the fact that we are running behind our deadline, our department members will not be attending the party. B. Because we are running behind our deadline, our department members will not be attending the party.
Because we are running behind our deadline, our department members will not be attending the party.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. Prior to the start of the show, the actors will mingle with the crowd. B. Before the show, the actors will mingle with the crowd.
Before the show, the actors will mingle with the crowd.
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? Finance majors at Baylor have excellent business dining skills, however, history majors tend to chew with their mouths open. A. Correct B. Fused (run-on) sentence C. Comma Splice D. Fragment
Comma Splice
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence expresses the ideas completely without any redundant words or phrases? A. Ferdinand Magellan's voyage around the world is described in the biography of his life. B. Ferdinand Magellan's voyage to circle around the world is described in his biography. C. Ferdinand Magellan's voyage around the world is described in his biography. D. Ferdinand Magellan's voyage to circle around the world is described in the biography of his life.
Ferdinand Magellan's voyage around the world is described in his biography.
Capitalization: The human resources director is going to reconsider my plans for hiring _____ sales representatives. A. french and german B. French and german C. French and German D. french and German
French and German
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? A few companies post benefits on their Web sties many make them available to candidates and new hires only. A. Correct B. Fragment C. Fused (run-on) sentence D. Comma splice
Fused (run-on sentence
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? Marketing majors are great dancers every accounting major is good at billiards. A. Comma splice B. Complex sentence C. Compound sentence D. Fused (run-on) sentence
Fused (run-on) sentence
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? Visual learners learn by seeing auditory learners prefer to learn by hearing. A. Fused (run-on) sentence B. Complex sentence C. Compound sentence D. Comma splice
Fused (run-on) sentence
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence expresses the ideas completely without any redundant words or phrases? A. The consensus of opinion among police officials is that people should not carry guns. B. The consensus among law enforcement officials is that people should not carry guns. C. The consensus among law enforcement police officials is that people should not carry guns. D. The consensus of opinion among police officials in the field of law enforcement is that people should not carry guns.
The consensus among law enforcement officials is that people should not carry guns.
Modifiers: Chosen from the winners of the competition, _____ A. the judges decided to award Tony the top prize. B. Tony's speaking skills gained him the top prize. C. Tony was awarded the top prize because of his speaking skills.
Tony was awarded the top prize because of his speaking skills.
Capitalization: You should turn down _____ if he offers you a management position. A. uncle John B. Uncle John
Uncle John
Capitalization: David will graduate with a bachelor's degree in finance from Baylor university. A. University B. No other words should be capitalized C. Bachelor's, Finance, University
University
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? After she completes training, Tatum plans to fly to _____ find work here. A. Waco, and B. Waco and
Waco and
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. I plan to discuss the concept after Mark gives his presentation but _____ . A. before Sarah wows the audience B. before Sarah will wow the audience C. before Sarah wowing the audience
before Sarah wows the audience
Comparisons: Of the three dogs, Meeko is the _____ . A. best B. better
best
Comparisons: When I compare the vanilla flan to the chocolate silk pie, I always find I like the pie _____ . A. better B. best
better
Sentences: Which choice is a sentence? A. The love that endures without limits. B. Love endures. C. Love enduring forever without limit. D. The love that endures.
Love endures.
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. I went to HEB and bought melons, grapes, _____ . A. Oreos, and saw some organic apples B. Oreos, and I really like organic apples C. Oreos, and organic apples
Oreos, and organic apples
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. (Whom, Who) will you choose for the new position? A. Who B. Whom
Whom
Capitalization: My advisor told me I should wait to take _____ in the _____ . A. accounting, spring B. Accounting, Spring C. accounting, Spring D. Accounting, spring
accounting, spring
Word Choice: The _____ circumstances made him _____ to discussing the topic in the meeting. A. adverse, adverse B. averse, adverse C. adverse, averse D. averse, averse
adverse, averse
Word Choice: The new guidelines will not _____ our department, but they will give Christina the _____ she wants. A. affect, effect B. effect, effect C. effect, affect D. affect, affect
affect, effect
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Carson soon grew confused by the two ______ conflicting guidelines. A. agency B. agency's C. agencies' D. agencies's
agencies'
Word Choice: At Dichotomy, matters such as buying shade-grown or sun-grown coffee beans are usually settled after a thorough discussion _____ all department managers. A. between B. among
among
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Neither the staff nor the stock reports (is, are) in the conference room. A. are B. is
are
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. One-forth of the books (is, are) difficult to read. A. are B. is
are
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The staff (is, are) eating chili con queso at Torchy's Tacos. A. are B. is
are
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The stock reports and the staff (is, are) in the conference room. A. are B. is
are
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. a number of toys (is, are) being displayed in the toy museum. A. is B. are
are
Word Choice: You should not be _____ to fighting the _____ circumstances. A. averse, adverse B. adverse, averse C. adverse, adverse D. averse, averse
averse, adverse
Comparisons: Jeff plans to put the copy machine ______ Ann's office and Steve's office. A. among B. between
between
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? Daisy Mae purchased _____ at Magnolia this morning. A. dried flowers, candles, and pottery B. dried flowers, candles and pottery C. :dried flowers, candles, and pottery D. :dried flowers, candles and pottery
dried flowers, candles, and pottery
Punctuation: Joe asked me, "When will the work be _____ A. finished?" B. finished." C. finished"?
finished?"
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. One-fourth of the book store (is, are) filled with athletic clothing. A. is B. are
is
Adjectives and Adverbs: Angela finished the test ______ than she thought she would. A. quicker B. more quickly C. more quicker
more quickly
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Torchy's Tacos (offer, offers) a great place to eat outside at picnic tables. A. offer B. offers
offers
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that completes the sentence. Get rid of your _____ coat A. old, down B. old down
old down
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that best completes the sentence. The scary house is surrounded by an ______ wall. A. old, stone B. old stone
old stone
Capitalization: Our company has never had a _____ like Steve Jobs. A. president B. President
president
Comparisons: Butter maple pecan cupcakes are tasty. Mocha cupcakes are even more tasty. But of the three kinds available, chocolate mocha cupcakes are _____ . A. most tastiest B. tastiest C. tastier
tastiest
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? By focusing on one small task at a _____ will find that each large job becomes smaller. A. time, you B. time you
time, you
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that best completes the sentence. Our ______ office handbook outlined proper document formats. A. up to date B. up-to-date
up-to-date
Parallelism: Identify the sentences with parallel structure. The purchase not only was expensive but also _____ . A. it wasn't necessary B. was unnecessary C. unnecessary
was unnecessary
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or phrase that best completes the sentence. Matt said his cough was gone, so he felt (good, well). A. well B. good
well
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? Casey was expected to begin work on _____. A. February 3 2017 in El Paso Texas B. February 3, 2017, in El Paso Texas C. February 3, 2017 in El Paso, Texas D. February 3, 2017, in El Paso, Texas
February 3, 2017, in El Paso, Texas
Subject-Verb Agreement: In my experience, shoes from Zappos _________ as high in quality as any you can buy in a shoe store. A. is B. rates C. was D. are
are
Word Choice: Chick-Fil-A has become _____ and sensitive to its customers' concerns. A. aware of B. aware
aware of
Subject-Verb Agreement: At the end of the movie, the jury ________ the defendant "not guilty." A. determine B. declares C. pronounce D. declare
declares
Adjectives and Adverbs: After preparing for months, we won the contract _______. A. easily B. easy
easily
Adjectives and Adverbs: Business writers try to use _____ language. A. easy-to understand B. easy-to-understand C. easy to understand
easy-to-understand
Word Choice: The net _____ of the changes will likely _____ the final outcome. A. effect, effect B. affect, effect C. affect, affect D. effect, affect
effect, affect
Word Choice: The new requirements will _____ that all employees receive fair compensation. A. insure B. ensure C. assure
ensure
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The _______ termination point is the stomach. A. esophagus's B. esophasgus' C. esophaguses' D. esophagus
esophagus's
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Better decisions and faster response time (explain, explains) why many companies are using teams. A. explain B. explains
explain
Verb Tense: Better decisions and faster response time _____ why many companies are using teams. A. explains B. explain
explain
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Twenty days (is, are) a very long time. A. are B. is
is
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following is generally not used as a transitional word or phrase? A. otherwise B. consequently C. accordingly D. managing E. still
managing
Punctuation: The _____ is user friendly. A. manual: the new one for the whole company: B. manual-the new one for the whole company- C. manual-the new one for the whole company, D. manual; the new one for the whole company;
manual-the new one for the whole company-
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Let's get this project completed, you and (I, me). A. I B. me
me
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Thank you for taking Johnathan and (I, me) to dinner on Saturday. A. me B. I
me
Nouns: After one goose sounds the alarm, the _______ take to the air. A. goose B. gooses C. flock D. geese
geese
Comparisons: Of the four projects, I can complete these two _____ . A. fastest B. faster
fastest
Verb Tense: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Annalyse wants to (lay, lie) out in the sun this afternoon. A. lie B. lay
lie
Verb Tense: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The new business school will include a station where students can (lay, lie) down for a nap. A. lie B. lay
lie
Subject-Verb Agreement: Success in an Economics course _____ focus and dedication. A. require B. use C. requires D. take
requires
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Jason just left to withdraw some money from his _____ account. A. saving's B. savings C. savings' D. saving
savings
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. We probably all need to review the ______ report. A. secretary-treasurer's B. secretary-treasurer C. secretarty's-treasurer's D. secretaries-treasurers
secretary-treasurer's
Punctuation: Which one of the following is correctly punctuated when one is quoting the benefits coordinator? A. "Health care costs, said the benefits coordinator, will increase substantially this year." B. "Health care costs," said the benefits coordinator, "will increase substantially this year." C. "Health care costs," said the benefits coordinator, will increase substantially this year."
"Health care costs," said the benefits coordinator, "will increase substantially this year."
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence expresses the ideas completely without any unnecessary words or phrases? A. Attendance at movie theaters is in the process of declining due to the fact that many people have a tendency to watch movies at home by means of Netflix or Vudu. B. Attendance at movie theaters is declining because people tend to watch movies at home using Internet services such as Netflix, Blockbuster, or Vudu. C. Attendance at movie theaters is, in a very real way, declining due to the fact that many people have a tendency to watch movies at home by means of Netflix or Vudu. D. Attendance at movie theaters is in the process of declining due to the fact that many people have a tendency to watch movies at home.
Attendance at movie theaters is declining because people tend to watch movies at home using Internet services such as Netflix, Blockbuster, or Vudu.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence expresses the ideas completely without any unnecessary words or phrases? A. Attendance at movie theaters is in the process of declining due to the fact that many people have a tendency to watch movies at home by means of Netflix or Vudu. B. Attendance at movie theaters is, in a very real way, declining due to the fact that many people have a tendency to watch movies at home by means of Netflix or Vudu. C. Attendance at movie theaters is in the process of declining due to the fact that many people have a tendency to watch movies at home. D. Attendance at movie theaters is declining because people tend to watch movies at home using Internet services such as Netflix, Blockbuster, or Vudu.
Attendance at movie theaters is declining because people tend to watch movies at home using Internet services such as Netflix, Blockbuster, or Vudu.
Modifiers: In order to create enough space for the office, you will need to move the desk. A. Correct B. Dangling modifier C. Misplaced modifier
Correct
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? And Stacie said she loves to walk in the rain. A. Fragment B. Fused (run-on) sentence C. Comma Splice D. Correct
Correct
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence expresses the ideas completely without any unnecessary words or phrases? A. Customers are turning away from both local news broadcasts and network television news. B. Customers for the most part in fact are in the process of turning away from TV news on the whole. C. Customers for the most part are in fact turning away from TV news in a very real sense. D. Customers are in the very real process of turning away from TV news in a very real sense.
Customers are turning away from both local news broadcasts and network television news.
Modifiers: Buried in the attic, Mr. Wellesly found the lost painting. A. Misplaced modifier B. Correct C. Dangling modifier
Dangling modifier
Modifiers: To find the needed information, the whole book had to be skimmed. A. Misplaced modifier B. Dangling modifier C. Correct
Dangling modifier
Modifiers: To make the bolt hole large enough, the procedure will have to be done with a drill. A. Correct B. Misplaced modifier C. Dangling modifier
Dangling modifier
Sentence: Which choice is best? A. Dr. Caspar Wistar carefully analyzed the huge bone; however, he failed to recognize that it had belonged to a dinosaur. B. Dr. Caspar Wistar carefully analyzed the huge bone however; he failed to recognize that it had belonged to a dinosaur. C. Dr. Caspar Wistar carefully analyzed the huge bone, he however failed to recognize that it had belonged to a dinosaur. D. Dr. Caspar Wistar carefully analyzed the huge bone he failed to recognize that it had belonged to a dinosaur.
Dr. Caspar Wistar carefully analyzed the huge bone; however, he failed to recognize that it had belonged to a dinosaur.
Sentences: Which choice is a sentence? A. Making Hiram late to work three days in a row. B. Hiram, having been late three days in a row. C. Eager to start his new job, Hiram rode his bike to work. D. Hiram who was eager to start his new job at the firm.
Eager to start his new job, Hiram rode his bike to work.
Capitalization: Debra said she hailed from the _____ but wanted to head ____ on her journeys. A. East, north B. East, North C. East, north D. east, north
East, north
Capitalization: Many of the students at Baylor are of _____ descent and want to study _____ . A. Germanic, german B. Germanic, German C. germanic, German D. germanic, german
Germanic, German
Verb Tense: Identify the active sentence. A. The boards were nailed to the display by Grace. B. Grace nailed the boards to the display.
Grace nailed the boards to the display.
Nouns: ______ economic problems were largely caused by running up enormous deficits. A. Greece's B. Greece' C. Greeces' D. Greeces
Greece's
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. James Horton and Louise Sanders and (I, myself) are the top salespeople. A. I B. myself
I
Pronouns: My colleague and ______. A. me could locate all the studies except yours. B. I could locate all the studies except your's C. me could locate all the studies except your's D. I could locate all the studies except Tom's
I could locate all the studies except Tom's
Sentences: Which choice is best? A. In the 1770s, Georges-Louis Leclerc estimated that Earth might be 168,000 years old, however, Leclerc later retracted his estimate. B. In the 1770s, Georges-Louis Leclerc estimated that Earth might be 168,000 years old. Leclerc later retracted his estimate. C. In the 1770s Georges-Louis Leclerc estimated that Earth might be 168,000 years old, later Leclerc retracted his estimate. D. In the 1770s, Georges-Louis Leclerc estimated that Earth might be 168,000 years old, Leclerc however later retracted his estimate.
In the 1770s, Georges-Louis Leclerc estimated that Earth might be 168,000 years old. Leclerc later retracted his estimate.
Sentences: Which Choice is best? A. In 1787, a New Jersey farmer found an enormous bone in fact, it was a dinosaur bone. B. In 1787, a New Jersey farmer found an enormous bone that turned out to be the world's first dinosaur bone. C. In 1787, a New Jersey farmer found an enormous bone, the bone belonged to a dinosaur. D. In 1787, a New Jersey farmer found an enormous bone it turned out to be the worlds first dinosaur bone.
In 1787, a New Jersey farmer found an enormous bone that turned out to be the world's first dinosaur bone.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. At this point in time, I can't make a commitment to the sales project. B. I can't make a commitment to the sales project now.
I can't make a commitment to the sales project now.
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following shows strong and correctly punctuated transition? A. Leoncia gave an excellent presentation to the chairperson, however, the report she passed out lacked illustrations. B. Leoncia gave an excellent presentation to the chairperson. The report she passed out lacked illustrations. C. Leoncia gave an excellent presentation to the chairperson. However, the report she passed out lacked illustrations. D. Leoncia gave an excellent presentation to the chairperson; the report she passed out lacked illustrations.
Leoncia gave an excellent presentation to the chairperson. However, the report she passed out lacked illustrations.
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? During the Baylor European Business Seminar, Teddy will tour _____. A. London, England, Paris, France, and Rome, Italy B. London, England; Paris, France; and Rome, Italy C. London, England; Paris, France; and, Rome, Italy
London, England; Paris, France; and Rome, Italy
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence expresses the ideas completely without any unnecessary words or phrases? A. Many computers, in fact, have been exclusively purchased for the sole purpose of sending and receiving email only. B. Many computers have been purchased exclusively for the sole purpose of sending and receiving email. C. Many computers have been purchased for the sole purpose of sending and receiving email only. D. Many computers have been purchased for sending and receiving email only.
Many computers have been purchased for sending and receiving email only.
Modifiers: I asked him to file all the letters on the desk that had already been answered. A. Misplaced modifier B. Correct C. Dangling modifier
Misplaced modifier
Modifiers: Starbucks built an outdoor patio at Baylor for students with a new fountain. A. Correct B. Dangling modifier C. Misplaced modifier
Misplaced modifier
Modifiers: The professor asked his student assistant to print out all the files on his computer that had been saved. A. Dangling modifier B. Correct C. Misplaced modifier
Misplaced modifier
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following sentences does not show bias? A. My friend Jose Garcia makes my favorite enchiladas and chili con queso. B. It's no surprise that Shing Yau excels in math and Excel charts. C. An epileptic, Mason has no trouble completing his assignments. D. Annalyse Sparker, 24, just joined our finance department. E. Disabled workers face many barriers on the job.
My friend Jose Garcia makes my favorite enchiladas and chili con queso.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence expresses the ideas completely without any unnecessary words or phrases? A. Newspaper readership is declining, for all intents and purposes, since people are getting news on the Internet. B. Newspaper readership is declining because most people are, for the most part, getting news on the Internet. C. Newspaper readership is declining in fact because people are, in fact, getting their news on the Internet. D. Newspaper readership is declining because people are getting most of their news on the Internet or TV.
Newspaper readership is declining because people are getting most of their news on the Internet or TV.
Transitional Phrases: Which of the following shows strong and correctly punctuated transition? A. Production delays are common; our current lag time in filling orders is one month. B. Production delays are common. Our current lag time in filling orders is one month. C. Production delays are common; consequently, our current lag time in filling orders is one month. D. Production delays are common; consequently our current lag time in filling orders is one month.
Production delays are common; consequently, our current lag time in filling orders is one month.
Word Choice: Which of the following sentences is correct? A. Irregardless of the outcome, James will not be able to file a lawsuit. B. Regardless of the outcome, James will not be able to file a lawsuit.
Regardless of the outcome, James will not be able to file a lawsuit.
Nouns: Choose the phrase that best completes the sentence. _______ Paper was circulated widely in the department. A. Sams and Amandas B. Sam's and Amanda's C. Sam and Amanda's D. Sams' and Amandas'
Sam and Amanda's
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? He laughed. But I don't think he meant it. A. Two simple sentences B. Simple sentence plus fragment C. Simple sentence plus complex sentence D. Simple sentence plus compound sentence
Simple sentence plus complex sentence
Sentences: Which letter option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? Turn in the work plan by Wednesday. Because the supervisor needs to examine it before we submit it. A. Simple sentence plus complex sentence B. Correct C. Simple sentence plus simple sentence D. Simple sentence plus fragment
Simple sentence plus fragment
Sentences: Which lettered option below each group of words correctly identifies that group of words? Please have the new report to me by Thursday. Although I might be able to accept it by Friday. A. Simple sentence plus complex sentence B. Simple sentence plus simple sentence C. Simple sentence plus fragment D. Correct
Simple sentence plus fragment
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. St. John's Island, which is lovely and isolated, is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. B. St. John's Island is surrounded on all sides by the Caribbean Sea.
St. John's Island, which is lovely and isolated, is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea.
Nouns: Which sentence is correct? A. The audiences's opinion, judging from the applause, was that the show was great. B. The audiences' opinion, judging from the applause, was that the show was great. C. The audience' opinion, judging from the applause, was that the show was great. D. The audience's opinion, judging from the applause, was that the show was great.
The audience's opinion, judging from the applause, was that the show was great.
Verb Tense: Identify the passive sentence. A. Rafael didn't open the chest until after the meeting. B. The chest wasn't opened by Rafael until after the meeting.
The chest wasn't open by Rafael until after the meeting.
Sentences: Which choice is a complete sentence? A. The commission asking for a full investigation into the matter. B. When the commission asked for an investigation into the matter. C. The commission that asked for a full investigation into the matter. D. The commission asked for a full investigation into the matter.
The commission asked for a full investigation into the matter.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentence gives the most complete information? A. The window was broken and the floor was damaged. B. The dog broke the window and spilled the water that damaged the floor. C. The window was broken, water was spilled, and the floor was damaged. D. The dog broke the window, and there was a damaged floor.
The dog broke the window and spilled the water that damaged the floor.
Avoiding Wordiness: Which sentences below avoid wordiness and redundancies? A. The result of our group project was an A, and Professor Talbot said it was deserved! B. The end result of our group project was an A!
The result of our group project was an A, and Professor Talbot said it was deserved!
Word Choice: Which sentence is correct? A. The school system comprises five different districts, each of which is comprised of six or more schools. B. The school system comprises five different districts, each of which comprises six or more schools. C. The school system is composed of five different districts, each of which composes six or more schools. D. The school system composes five different districts, each of which is comprised of six or more schools.
The school system comprises five different districts, each of which comprises six or more schools.
Sentences: Which choice is not a sentence? A. Without any choice, the task force began its work. B. The task force, without any choice, made a decision. C. The task force, without any choice but to begin its work quickly. D. Without any other choice, the task force acted.
The task force, without any choice but to begin its work quickly.
Word Choice: Find the mistake in the sentence. Residence of the district disagreed with their school principal and voted the levy down. A. The word principal should be principle. B. The word levy should be levee. C. The word Residence should be Residents. D. The word their should be they're.
The word Residence should be Residents.
Word Choice: Find the mistake in the sentence. The moral of the story is: Don't accept every complement you hear. . A. The word complement should be compliment. B. The word accept should be except. C. The word hear should be here. D. The word moral should be morale.
The word complement should be compliment.
Word Choice: Find the mistake in the sentence. We were led to believe that our job performance could effect our base pay rate. A. The word base should be based. B. The word effect should be affect. C. The word led should be lead. D. The word our should be are.
The word effect should be affect.
Word Choice: Find the mistake in the sentence. The bank offered to loan us less money than last year. A. The word less should be fewer. B. The word than should be then. C. The word us should be we. D. The word loan should be lend.
The word loan should be lend.
Word Choice: Find the mistake in the sentence. As a person whose interested in the improvement of New Orleans, I think the levee is overdue to be fixed. A. The word overdue should be over due. B. The word whose should be who's. C. The word overdue should be overdo. D. The word levee should be levy.
The word whose should be who's.
Adjectives and Adverbs: Choose the word or Phrase that best completes the sentence. The fish tacos taste (bad/badly). A. bad B. badly
bad
Nouns: My Boss Expects A full day of work for a __________. A. days pays B. days pay C. day's pay D. days' pay
day's pay
Nouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. He shares his _____ love of fishing and camping. A. father's-in-law B. father-in-laws' C. fathers-in-law D. father-in-law's
father-in-law's
Subject-Verb Agreement: Both members of the duet ______ that the blues ______ the hardest kind of music to sign. (Select all options that apply.) A. feel; is B. feels; is C. feel; are D. feels; are
feel; is and feel; are
Capitalization: Today I took a tour of a _____ at a university I visited. A. Finance Department B. Finance department C. finance department
finance department
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. The appearance of letters, memos, and e-mail messages (has, have) either a positive or a negative effect on receivers. A. have B. has
has
Subject-Verb Agreement: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Olivia, along with the rest of the team, (has played, have played) well. A. have played B. has played
has played
Comparisons: My team should _____ checked with you first. A. have B. of
have
Pronouns: Sandra said that the book was ______. A. hers B. her's C. hers'
hers
Pronouns: The senior project manager and I are on a call tonight, so please direct all calls to _______. A. he or I B. him or myself C. him or me
him or me
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Each new employee must be accompanied to (his or her, their) training meeting. A. his or her B. their
his or her
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Everybody needs to contribute (their, his, his or her) tips this evening to the food drive. A. their B. his or her C. his
his or her
Pronouns: Choose the word that best completes the sentence. Neither Sam nor Evan made (their quotas, his quotas, his quota). A. his quota B. his quotas C. their quotas
his quota
Punctuation: Which of the following is correctly punctuated? The _____ is easy to follow. A. human resources guide—the complete one for the staff at Baylor, B. human resources guide: the complete one for the staff at Baylor, C. human resources guide—the complete one for the staff at Baylor—
human resources guide—the complete one for the staff at Baylor—
Word Choice: Eva _____ the masterpiece over the fireplace after her greatest enemy was _____ . A. hanged, hanged B. hung, hung C. hung, hanged D. hanged, hung
hung, hanged
Word Choice: Find the mistake in the sentence. Regardless of weather he was telling the truth, we had to set personal feelings aside and continue our defense. A. The word weather should be whether. B. The word Regardless should be Irregardless. C. The word aside should be a side. D. The word personal should be personnel.
The word weather should be whether.
