1. Text Completion [2]
Section 1: Critical Reasoning - Part A
Text Completion / Sentence Equivalence (MCQ Format)
Objective: This section tests your ability to infer meaning from incomplete information and to recognize words or phrases that produce coherent, logically sound, and stylistically consistent sentences.
Question Format (Revised for 4 options):
Text Completion: A short passage with 1-2 blanks. You must select the single best word or phrase for each blank from the four given options.
Sentence Equivalence (Adapted): A single sentence with one blank. You must select the ONE word that best completes the sentence logically and meaningfully. (The "choose two synonyms" format is less common in a 4-option MCQ.)
Sample MCQs (4 Options Each)
Question 1: Text Completion (1 Mark)
The prototype was __________ in its design; while innovative, it was far too complex and expensive for mass production.
A) flawed B) exemplary C) retrograde D) peerless
Answer & Explanation:
Correct Answer: A) flawed
Explanation: The clause after the semicolon explains the blank. "Far too complex and expensive" indicates a negative, practical weakness. "Flawed" perfectly captures this. "Exemplary" (B) is positive, "retrograde" (C) means backward-looking, and "peerless" (D) means without equal (positive).
Question 2: Sentence Completion (1 Mark)
The laboratory results were __________, contradicting the initial hypothesis and forcing the researchers to reconsider their approach.
A) inconsequential B) anomalous C) corroborative D) anticipated
Answer & Explanation:
Correct Answer: B) anomalous
Explanation: The results "contradicted the hypothesis." "Anomalous" means deviating from what is standard or expected, which fits perfectly. "Corroborative" (C) would have supported the hypothesis. "Inconsequential" (A) means unimportant, and "anticipated" (D) is the opposite of what's described.
Question 3: Text Completion (1 Mark)
To ensure the experiment's validity, the scientist maintained __________ records of every procedure and observation, leaving a clear trail for replication.
A) cursory B) meticulous C) cryptic D) obsolete
Answer & Explanation:
Correct Answer: B) meticulous
Explanation: The phrase "clear trail for replication" indicates the records were extremely detailed and careful. "Meticulous" means showing great attention to detail. "Cursory" (A) is quick and not thorough, "cryptic" (C) is mysterious, and "obsolete" (D) means outdated.
Question 4: Sentence Completion (1 Mark)
The project manager's __________ communication style minimized misunderstandings; she was always direct and unambiguous in her emails and briefings.
A) equivocal B) taciturn C) succinct D) verbose
Answer & Explanation:
Correct Answer: C) succinct
Explanation: The style is described as "direct and unambiguous," which minimizes misunderstandings. "Succinct" means expressed clearly in few words. "Equivocal" (A) means ambiguous, "taciturn" (B) means reserved/silent, and "verbose" (D) means using too many words.
Key Strategies for the MCQ Format:
Focus on Logic: The sentence itself contains all clues. Identify key trigger words (but, however, because, therefore, although).
Process of Elimination: Immediately discard any option that doesn't fit the sentence's tone (positive/negative/neutral) or logic.
Mind the Context: For technical/professional communication, the correct answer often leans towards formal, precise vocabulary.
Read the Completed Sentence: Plug your chosen answer back into the sentence to ensure it makes complete and logical sense.