Module 15: How to Eliminate Incorrect Answers in Multiple Choice English Test

    Very often in the Structure and Written Expression section of the TOEFL, especially in Part A, Structure, you will find that the questions cannot be solved simply by applying a single grammatical rule. In order to solve these questions, you should eliminate any possible answer choices which are incorrect until you arrive at the correct choices. Follow these steps in eliminating incorrect answers:

1. Check each answer for faulty grammar. Look for:

• Subject/verb agreement
• Adjective/adverb usage 
• Placement of modifiers
• Sequence of tenses
• Logical pronoun reference
• Parallel structure

2. Eliminate answers that are verbose (wordy). The sentence should convey its meaning in the most concise way.

• Avoid answers containing expressions like:
  John read the letter in a thoughtful manner. (4 words)
  There is usually a less wordy adverb such as:
  John read the letter thoughtfully. (1 word)
• Avoid answers containing two words that have the same meaning.

3. Eliminate answers which contain improper vocabulary.

• Be sure that all words show the meaning of the sentence.
• Be sure that two-word verbs are connected with the proper preposition. (These are covered in the next section, Problem Vocabulary and Prepositions.)

4. Eliminate answer choices containing slang expressions. Slang in nonstandard vocabulary that is sometimes used in speech, but not considered correct in formal English. Some examples are:

• really when it is used to mean "very"
• bunch when it is used to mean "many"
• any noun + wise when it is used to mean "in relation to___"

Example of Style Questions

1. Before we can decide on the future uses of this drug ___

(A) many more information must be reviewed

(B) is necessary to review more information 

(C) we must review much more information

(D) another information must to be reviewed

Analysis:

(A) 2 errors in grammar: many + non-count noun is not possible; a non-count noun cannot be plural (information).

(B) 1 grammar error: mo subject.

(C) Correct

(D) 2 grammar errors: another + non-count noun is not possible; a modal must be followed by the simple form (must be reviewed)

2. In this country, a growing concern the possible hazardous effects of chemical wastes___

(A) have resulted in a bunch of new laws

(B) has resulted in several new laws

(C) in causing the results of numerous new laws

(D) result in new laws

Analysis:

(A) 1 error in grammar and1 improper use of vocabulary (slang): The subject is concern, which is singular, so have should be has. The word bunch is not acceptable in formal English. 

(B) Correct.

(C) Verbose; has too many unnecessary words.

(D) 2 grammar errors: result in plural and the subject is singular; it is not possible to have a plural adjective (new laws)