Your FREE ACCUPLACER Practice Test 2026 – 450+ Q&A

Correct answer: Hardworking

Hardworking is correct because finishing every assignment early demonstrates steady, persistent effort, which is what diligent means. Careless and reluctant contradict that effort, and occasional does not fit someone who completes all work ahead of schedule.

Correct answer: Find a way around

Find a way around is correct because quietly reassigning the account instead of confronting the issue shows the manager avoided it by going around it, which is what circumvent means. Solving it directly and announcing it contradict the quiet avoidance, and making it worse is not implied.

Correct answer: Boring

Boring is correct because chapters that "dragged on without purpose" and drew a complaint describe dull, wearisome reading, which is what tedious means. Thrilling and elegant would invite praise, not a lament, and brief contradicts chapters that dragged on.

Correct answer: Complete ruin and emptiness

Complete ruin and emptiness is correct because no building left standing signals total devastation, which is what desolation means. Celebration and rebuilding contradict the destruction, and mild damage understates a scene where nothing remains.

Correct answer: Thrifty

Thrifty is correct because wasting nothing and stretching every dollar describes careful, economical use, which is what frugal means. Wasteful, lavish, and reckless all describe the opposite of someone who avoids waste.

Correct answer: Done with little care

Done with little care is correct because a flat, unfeeling apology lacking genuine remorse is one offered as a routine gesture, which is what perfunctory means. Heartfelt contradicts the lack of remorse, and the sentence does not suggest the apology was lengthy or angry.

Correct answer: Doubtful

Doubtful is correct because a story that changes with each retelling would prompt doubt, and skeptical means inclined to question or disbelieve. Convinced is the opposite, and amused or fearful are not supported by the detective's questioning attitude.

Correct answer: Absolutely essential

Absolutely essential is correct because efforts that the relief effort's success depended on could not be done without, which is the meaning of indispensable. Optional is the opposite, and the sentence gives no sense that the efforts were harmful or temporary.

Correct answer: Abandoned and run-down

Abandoned and run-down is correct because dry fountains and broken benches describe a neglected, deteriorating space, which is what derelict means. Crowded contradicts the emptiness, and newly built or restored conflict with the decay described.

Correct answer: Open to more than one interpretation

Open to more than one interpretation is correct because listeners' disagreement about her meaning shows the remarks could be understood in different ways, which is what ambiguous means. Perfectly clear is the opposite, and the sentence does not address length or rudeness.

Correct answer: Persistence

Persistence is correct because refusing to quit when the game seemed lost shows determined, unyielding effort, which is what tenacity means. Talent, speed, and luck describe other qualities not implied by the refusal to give up.

Correct answer: Convincing

Convincing is correct because an argument that draws doubtful jurors toward a conclusion is persuasive and forceful, which is what compelling means. Confusing would push jurors away, and the sentence says nothing about length or humor.

Correct answer: Self-produced light serves practical survival purposes for these animals

Self-produced light serves practical survival purposes for these animals is correct because the sentence states the light is used to lure prey and attract mates, both survival functions. The other choices add unsupported claims about blindness, sunlight reaching the depths, or animals not needing to eat.

Correct answer: Removing the weekend fee likely increased visitor numbers

Removing the weekend fee likely increased visitor numbers is correct because attendance tripled right after free weekend admission began, linking the change to higher turnout. The passage provides no evidence of lost money, disliked exhibits, or an upcoming closure.

Correct answer: Anxious

Anxious is correct because repeatedly checking locks, watching the window, and keeping the phone close are protective behaviors that reveal worry or fear. Boredom, joy, and confidence do not match such cautious, on-edge actions.

Correct answer: The filters were installed

The filters were installed is correct because the passage places the March installation before the June improvement, making it the earlier event. Air quality improving comes afterward, and the passage never mentions a closure or complaints.

Correct answer: A single species can influence an entire ecosystem

A single species can influence an entire ecosystem is correct because the passage traces how reintroducing wolves changed grazing, trees, and riverbanks throughout the forest. The other choices focus on danger, deny any effect, or overstate the role of deer.

Correct answer: Learning another language offers several wide-ranging benefits

Learning another language offers several wide-ranging benefits is correct because it unites the cognitive and career advantages the passage lists. The other options limit the value to travel, deny that memory can improve, or claim languages are impossible, none of which is the passage's point.

Correct answer: Renewal and the persistence of life

Renewal and the persistence of life is correct because seeds, buds breaking through snow, and a shoot rising from ash all suggest new life emerging despite harsh conditions. Failure, cold-weather danger, and farming are not the unifying idea behind these images of growth.

Correct answer: The city used several coordinated strategies to ease traffic

The city used several coordinated strategies to ease traffic is correct because it ties together the three measures the passage credits with reducing congestion. The other options dismiss alternatives to cars, call transit unaffordable, or raise a danger the passage does not discuss.

Correct answer: A linked chain in which each event triggers the next

A linked chain in which each event triggers the next is correct because rising temperatures lead to melting, which leads to higher seas, which leads to flooding. The passage is not a comparison, a set of definitions, or a relocation argument.

Correct answer: Contrast between two rates of change

Contrast between two rates of change is correct because the word "unlike" sets slow, centuries-long erosion against a tsunami's near-instant reshaping. The sentence does not trace a cause to an effect, lay out steps, or list examples.

Correct answer: It lists ordered steps for preparing a dish

It lists ordered steps for preparing a dish is correct because "then" and "finally" mark a sequence of actions for making the food. The passage does not compare baking methods, make an argument, or define a term.

Correct answer: A similarity in goals alongside a difference in resources

A similarity in goals alongside a difference in resources is correct because the sentence pairs a shared aim ("the same discovery") with contrasting means (lavish funding versus borrowed equipment). It does not describe a method, define a term, or issue a warning.

Correct answer: Convey how painfully cold the air felt

Convey how painfully cold the air felt is correct because "bite" is figurative, comparing the sting of cold air to a physical bite to stress its intensity. It is not a literal attack, an explanation of snow, or praise for winter's beauty.

Correct answer: Suggest the promises were sold cheaply and dishonestly

Suggest the promises were sold cheaply and dishonestly is correct because "peddled," paired with "empty promises," casts the politician as hawking worthless goods, a critical word choice. It does not praise generosity, depict a real market, or explain procedures.

Correct answer: Create a vivid, graceful image of the stream

Create a vivid, graceful image of the stream is correct because comparing the water to a silver ribbon threading the valley paints an elegant visual picture. The phrase gives no measurements, no warning, and no list of wildlife.

Correct answer: The vast number of tired passengers

The vast number of tired passengers is correct because comparing the faces to a "sea" stresses how many people there are, and "weary" stresses their tiredness. The phrase says nothing about cleanliness, speed, or fares.

Correct answer: Explaining two processes and then comparing them

Explaining two processes and then comparing them is correct because the passage presents each process and concludes by examining how they relate. It is not arranged by chronological time, by a problem-solution argument, or by spatial location.

Correct answer: Grab the reader's attention and introduce the topic

Grab the reader's attention and introduce the topic is correct because a striking statistic at the start of a passage draws readers in and frames the issue to follow. It does not conclude the passage, list steps, or contradict the later solution.

Correct answer: Spatial order that follows a physical path

Spatial order that follows a physical path is correct because the passage moves along the river's course from source to delta, organizing by location. It is not based on time, on comparing items, or on solving a problem.

Correct answer: Provide a specific example supporting the claim

Provide a specific example supporting the claim is correct because "for instance" introduces an illustration of the preceding general statement. The transition does not signal contradiction, a topic change, or a summary.

Correct answer: Experience events through the narrator's personal perspective

Experience events through the narrator's personal perspective is correct because first-person narration filters the story through one individual's experiences and reflections. It does not give equal access to every character's mind, an objective report, or an outsider's distant view.

Correct answer: Motivate readers to recycle

Motivate readers to recycle is correct because framing sorting bottles as a gift to future generations is meant to inspire action. The sentence is not a joke, a chemistry lesson, or a description of a plant's layout.

Correct answer: Mixed, with both praise and criticism

Mixed, with both praise and criticism is correct because the reviewer admires the cinematography yet faults the hollow script. The attitude is neither wholly enthusiastic nor completely hostile, and indifference is ruled out by the strong opinions expressed.

Correct answer: Instruct readers how to complete a task

Instruct readers how to complete a task is correct because numbered commands walking through each step are meant to guide readers through changing a tire. The article is not a sales pitch, a story, or an argument about danger.

Correct answer: Inform readers about a natural process

Inform readers about a natural process is correct because neutral, definition-based explanation of the water cycle aims to teach rather than argue or amuse. The passage offers no persuasion, fiction, or criticism.

Correct answer: Entertain readers by recounting a funny experience

Entertain readers by recounting a funny experience is correct because the exaggerated mishaps and joking closing line are meant to amuse. The passage is not a safety lesson, a sales pitch, or a weather report.

Correct answer: Evidence backing the author's recommendation

Evidence backing the author's recommendation is correct because the cooling and cost data are offered to justify planting more trees. They are not a dismissed counterargument, an unrelated anecdote, or a definition.

Correct answer: Concede a point before reinforcing the main claim

Concede a point before reinforcing the main claim is correct because the author admits practice has value, then uses "but" to return to the argument against excessive homework. The concession does not abandon the argument, give statistics, or introduce a new topic.

Correct answer: Beauty does not by itself prove improved health

Beauty does not by itself prove improved health is correct because an attractive appearance is not evidence that residents became healthier, leaving the claim unsupported. The argument is not weak because parks never matter, because of excess statistics, or because of a different town.

Correct answer: Acknowledging their concern while arguing the benefits outweigh it

Acknowledging their concern while arguing the benefits outweigh it is correct because the author grants that the cost is high, then claims the jobs and commerce justify it. The author does not deny the cost, agree against building, or ignore the concern.

Correct answer: Two passages presenting conflicting views on the same issue

Two passages presenting conflicting views on the same issue is correct because both address standardized testing but disagree about its fairness. Neither restates nor supplies data for the other, and they share a subject rather than being unrelated.

Correct answer: Understand the battle through both personal experience and factual record

Understand the battle through both personal experience and factual record is correct because the diary supplies a human viewpoint while the textbook supplies verified facts, together giving a fuller picture. The other choices misuse the pairing by judging talent, disproving, or discarding information.

Correct answer: Identifying a limitation of the findings in Passage 1

Identifying a limitation of the findings in Passage 1 is correct because Passage 2 points out a gap, the lack of testing on older patients, that qualifies the first passage's positive results. It does not repeat, fictionalize, or merely simplify Passage 1.

Correct answer: Uneasy and worried

Uneasy and worried is correct because gathering dark clouds and a howling wind would create anxious anticipation of trouble, which is what apprehensive means. Delighted and indifferent contradict that worry, and exhausted describes tiredness rather than dread.

Correct answer: Using too many words

Using too many words is correct because listeners lost the proposal "amid the endless words," showing the speech was wordy, which is what verbose means. Extremely brief is the opposite, and the sentence says nothing about organization or volume.

Correct answer: Optimistic

Optimistic is correct because being "certain that the next season would bring victory" despite a loss shows a hopeful outlook, which is what sanguine means. Furious and confused contradict that calm hope, and indifferent conflicts with the coach's certainty about success.

Correct answer: Agreed upon by everyone

Agreed upon by everyone is correct because "every single member voting the same way without objection" describes total agreement, which is what unanimous means. Decided by one person and filled with arguments contradict that agreement, and the vote was not delayed.

Correct answer: Impossible to satisfy

Impossible to satisfy is correct because no answer ever satisfied her endless questions, showing a hunger that cannot be filled, which is what insatiable means. Easily satisfied is the opposite, and occasional and quickly tired contradict the endless, persistent curiosity.

Correct answer: No longer useful or current

No longer useful or current is correct because new technology made the contract's methods "completely outdated," which is what obsolete means. Brand new is the opposite, and the sentence does not mention cost or secrecy.

Correct answer: Kind and generous

Kind and generous is correct because donating countless hours to help strangers shows goodwill toward others, which is what benevolent means. Selfish is the opposite, and shy and wealthy describe traits the sentence does not support.

Correct answer: Give up

Give up is correct because neither side would let go of its demands, causing the talks to collapse, and relinquish means to surrender or release something. Increase contradicts the idea of yielding, and writing down or celebrating do not fit the failed negotiation.

Correct answer: Understood by only a few

Understood by only a few is correct because just a handful of specialists could follow the lecture, showing it was meant for a small, knowledgeable group, which is what esoteric means. Widely popular is the opposite, and the sentence does not address volume or truthfulness.

Correct answer: Calm or soothe

Calm or soothe is correct because offering refunds and apologies to angry customers is an effort to pacify them, which is what placate means. Anger further is the opposite, and the sentence describes action rather than ignoring or investigating.

Correct answer: Honest and open

Honest and open is correct because admitting her own mistakes without hiding anything shows frankness, which is what candid means. Dishonest is the opposite, and frightened and rehearsed are not supported by her willingness to be truthful.

Correct answer: Only average or ordinary

Only average or ordinary is correct because a work that is neither bad enough to mock nor good enough to praise is unremarkable, which is what mediocre means. Outstanding, original, and deeply moving all describe quality the reviewer denies the sequel.

Correct answer: Dangerously unstable

Dangerously unstable is correct because a single wrong step risking a fall off the cliff describes a risky, insecure trail, which is what precarious means. Perfectly safe is the opposite, and the sentence says nothing about width or lighting.

Correct answer: Careful to avoid giving offense

Careful to avoid giving offense is correct because the reply avoided offending anyone while still being clear, which is exactly what tactful means. Rude and easily angered are opposites, and the sentence does not comment on length.

Correct answer: The bakery's changes reduced its waste

The bakery's changes reduced its waste is correct because the sentence directly links composting and reusable containers to a sharp drop in landfill trash. The passage gives no evidence the bakery closed, that trash rose, or that customers complained.

Correct answer: Struggling with money troubles

Struggling with money troubles is correct because hiding bills, dodging the phone, and avoiding the landlord all point to debt he cannot pay. Celebrating fortune contradicts the avoidance, and nothing suggests a vacation or a job search.

Correct answer: Record checkouts were reported

Record checkouts were reported is correct because the passage places November, the month of record checkouts, after the September and October events. Extending hours and hiring staff came earlier, and a closure is never mentioned.

Correct answer: Modern technology can reach places without traditional infrastructure

Modern technology can reach places without traditional infrastructure is correct because the village had smartphones and solar power despite lacking paved roads. The other choices contradict the smartphones, solar panels, and communication the passage describes.

Correct answer: A community art project produced several positive effects

A community art project produced several positive effects is correct because it unites the social, civic, and economic benefits the passage credits to the mural. The other choices focus on painting's difficulty, doubt tourism, or raise fading, none of which is the main point.

Correct answer: Adequate sleep supports several aspects of health

Adequate sleep supports several aspects of health is correct because it gathers the immune, mental, and emotional benefits the passage lists. The other options limit sleep to athletes, minimize how much is needed, or deny that rest aids focus.

Correct answer: The value of working together

The value of working together is correct because the farmer's solitary failure followed by success in a cooperative shows the benefits of cooperation. The other choices praise isolation, warn against change, or focus on machinery, none of which the story endorses.

Correct answer: The hospital combined several measures to shorten patient waits

The hospital combined several measures to shorten patient waits is correct because it ties together the three steps the passage credits with reducing waits. The other options deny progress, criticize online tools, or focus narrowly on cost.

Correct answer: A chain in which each event leads to the next

A chain in which each event leads to the next is correct because the released water causes flooding, which ruins the fields, which fails the harvest. The passage is not a comparison, an unrelated list, or a how-to procedure.

Correct answer: Contrast between two devices

Contrast between two devices is correct because "whereas" sets the slow manual older model against the fast self-configuring newer one. The sentence does not trace a cause to an effect, give numbered steps, or define a word.

Correct answer: It lists ordered steps for completing a task

It lists ordered steps for completing a task is correct because "first," "next," "then," and "finally" mark a sequence of actions. The passage makes no argument, comparison, or definition.

Correct answer: Cause and effect

Cause and effect is correct because the drought reducing supply is the cause and the phrase "as a result" introduces the climbing bread prices as the effect. The sentence does not compare crops, describe locations, or list unrelated items.

Correct answer: Convey the sudden, overwhelming burst of ringing

Convey the sudden, overwhelming burst of ringing is correct because "erupted" is figurative, likening the phones' sudden noise to an explosion to stress its intensity. It is not a literal volcano, an explanation of phone design, or praise for quiet.

Correct answer: Emphasize how eagerly and quickly he read them

Emphasize how eagerly and quickly he read them is correct because "devoured," applied to reports, figuratively compares his fast, hungry reading to eating. It does not describe a real meal, explain business rules, or comment on manners.

Correct answer: Create a vivid image of the glowing colors

Create a vivid image of the glowing colors is correct because comparing the sunset to a slow-spreading fire paints a striking picture of its warm, blazing hues. The phrase is not a wildfire warning, a temperature, or a list of plants.

Correct answer: The dry, tedious, drawn-out nature of the meeting

The dry, tedious, drawn-out nature of the meeting is correct because comparing it to an endless desert stresses how dull and seemingly unending it felt. The phrase does not address comfort, cost, or speed.

Correct answer: Stating a problem and then offering a solution

Stating a problem and then offering a solution is correct because the passage names the ocean plastic problem and follows it with biodegradable packaging as a fix. It is not arranged by chronology, by spatial location, or by comparing unrelated topics.

Correct answer: Sum up the main points of the passage

Sum up the main points of the passage is correct because "in short" signals a wrap-up that pulls the three reforms together into a closing statement. It does not introduce a new topic, list experiment steps, or contradict the passage.

Correct answer: Spatial order that moves through the house

Spatial order that moves through the house is correct because the article guides readers room by room according to physical location. It is not based on time, on cause and effect, or on solving a problem.

Correct answer: Introduce a contrasting point or drawback

Introduce a contrasting point or drawback is correct because "however" signals a shift away from the preceding praise toward an opposing idea. It does not repeat the praise, summarize the essay, or list car parts.

Correct answer: Third-person omniscient, with access to all characters' minds

Third-person omniscient, with access to all characters' minds is correct because the narrator knows every character's private thoughts across scenes. It is not limited first person, second-person address, or a thought-free objective report.

Correct answer: Urge readers to vote

Urge readers to vote is correct because the direct commands to mark the calendar, find the polling place, and be heard are meant to spur readers to action. The passage is not a history, a description of machinery, or a comic story.

Correct answer: Mixed, blending praise with disappointment

Mixed, blending praise with disappointment is correct because the critic praises the service and dessert but faults the bland main course. The attitude is neither entirely glowing nor completely negative, and the strong reactions rule out being uninterested.

Correct answer: Instruct readers how to stay safe

Instruct readers how to stay safe is correct because the directives walk readers through specific safety actions to take. The pamphlet is not a story, a sales pitch, or an argument about danger.

Correct answer: Inform readers about the planet's structure

Inform readers about the planet's structure is correct because the neutral, definition-based description of Earth's layers aims to teach rather than persuade or amuse. The passage contains no persuasion, fiction, or complaint.

Correct answer: Amuse readers with a playful story

Amuse readers with a playful story is correct because the exaggerated, joking account of a cat ruling the house is meant to entertain. It is not a care guide, an adoption appeal, or a scientific report.

Correct answer: Evidence supporting the author's recommendation

Evidence supporting the author's recommendation is correct because the studies link more sleep to better grades, backing the call for later start times. They are not an anecdote, a rejected counterargument, or a definition.

Correct answer: Concede a point before reasserting the main claim

Concede a point before reasserting the main claim is correct because the author grants a benefit, then uses "but" to return to the case against leaf blowers. The concession does not abandon the argument, supply statistics, or change the subject.

Correct answer: Downloading an app does not prove it makes users happier

Downloading an app does not prove it makes users happier is correct because download numbers measure interest, not emotional impact, leaving the happiness claim unsupported. The flaw is not that apps never affect emotions, that there was too much data, or that a different app was discussed.

Correct answer: Two passages offering opposing views on the same issue

Two passages offering opposing views on the same issue is correct because both discuss working from home but disagree about its effects. Neither restates nor supplies data for the other, and they share a topic rather than differing.

Correct answer: Understand the festival through both vivid experience and hard data

Understand the festival through both vivid experience and hard data is correct because the report gives a sensory account while the document supplies numbers, together forming a fuller picture. The other choices misuse the pairing by judging humor, disproving, or discarding data.

Correct answer: Pointing out a potential drawback of the finding in Passage 1

Pointing out a potential drawback of the finding in Passage 1 is correct because Passage 2 raises a pollution concern that qualifies the first passage's positive yield results. It does not repeat, fictionalize, or merely simplify Passage 1.

Correct answer: Contains a subject and verb and can stand alone as a complete sentence

Containing a subject and verb that can stand alone is correct because an independent clause expresses a complete thought without needing another clause. A relative pronoun begins a dependent clause, attachment punctuation is a separate matter, and a group lacking a finite verb is a phrase, not a clause.

Correct answer: Because the trail was steep, the hikers paused often.

Beginning with "Because the trail was steep" is correct because it turns the first clause into a dependent clause, eliminating the splice and showing cause. Adding "as a result" leaves the splice intact, removing the comma creates a run-on, and "however" without a semicolon still splices the clauses.

Correct answer: To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must submit an essay by March.

Naming "applicants" right after the opening phrase is correct because the action "to qualify" must attach to people who can qualify, not to an essay. The other versions leave the phrase modifying the deadline or the essay, or merely shift word order without supplying a logical subject.

Correct answer: A scientist who studies coral reefs in warm waters.

"A scientist who studies coral reefs in warm waters" is correct because the relative clause leaves the noun without a main verb, making it a fragment. The other three each pair a subject with a complete predicate and express a full thought on their own.

Correct answer: The intern was responsible for sorting mail, answering phones, and greeting visitors.

Listing "sorting," "answering," and "greeting" is correct because all three duties appear as gerunds, keeping the series parallel. The other versions mix a gerund with an infinitive or substitute a noun phrase, breaking the grammatical balance.

Correct answer: Rushing to catch the bus, he felt his wallet slip from his pocket.

Naming "he" after the introductory phrase is correct because the person, not the wallet, was rushing to catch the bus. The versions tied to "his wallet" still let the phrase modify the wallet, and moving or unpunctuating the phrase does not give it a logical subject.

Correct answer: When the river flooded, several roads were closed.

Opening with "When the river flooded" is correct because it subordinates the cause and leaves the road closures as the emphasized main clause. The comma-only version is a splice, the third choice is incomplete, and the semicolon version strands a dependent clause after it.

Correct answer: The professor explained the theory clearly and then answered questions from the class.

Pairing "explained" with "answered" is correct because both actions happened in the past and must share the past tense. Mixing present with past, using a participle, or leaving an unconjugated "answer" all break the tense agreement between the two verbs.

Correct answer: The manager returned the incomplete report to the analyst.

Placing "incomplete" directly before "report" is correct because a modifier belongs next to the noun it describes, making clear the report was incomplete. The other versions let the modifier attach to the analyst or the manager, distorting the intended meaning.

Correct answer: The deadline approached, so the team worked through the weekend.

Using a comma plus "so" is correct because a coordinating conjunction with a comma properly joins two independent clauses. Omitting punctuation creates a run-on, a comma alone makes a splice, and misplacing the comma after "so" disrupts the join.

Correct answer: The new method is not only faster but also less expensive.

Pairing "faster" with "less expensive" is correct because the correlative "not only...but also" must join matching adjective phrases. The other versions follow the second half with a clause or an unconjugated form, breaking the parallel structure the construction requires.

Correct answer: There

Choosing "there" is correct because the sentence needs the word that signals existence in "there is one clear leader." "Their" is possessive, "they're" means "they are," "theyre" is a misspelling, and "theirs" is a possessive pronoun that does not fit.

Correct answer: Number of

Choosing "number of" is correct because "students" are countable, and countable nouns take "number" rather than "amount." "Amount" and "quantity" suit uncountable masses, "amounts of" repeats the error, and "sum of" applies to figures being added.

Correct answer: She laid the blanket on the grass before the picnic.

"She laid the blanket on the grass" is correct because "laid" is the past tense of "lay," the transitive verb that takes an object such as "blanket." The other sentences misuse "lay" where the intransitive "lie" (to recline, with no object) is required.

Correct answer: Is the better speaker

Keeping "the better speaker" is correct because the comparative form is used when comparing exactly two people. The superlative "best" applies to three or more, "more better" doubles the comparative, and "better speaker than" leaves the comparison without its second element.

Correct answer: Neither of the proposals was

Choosing "Neither of the proposals was" is correct because "neither" is singular and governs the verb, regardless of the plural "proposals" in the prepositional phrase. The plural "are" and "were" disagree, "being" leaves no finite verb, and "proposal" creates a new mismatch.

Correct answer: Will have worked

Keeping "will have worked" is correct because the future perfect shows an action that will be completed before a future point, "next June." The simple future loses the completion, while "had worked" and "has worked" place the action in the past rather than the future.

Correct answer: Really hard

Choosing "really hard" is correct because the adverb "really" is needed to modify "hard," not the adjective "real." "Real hardly" changes the meaning, while "real harder" and "realer hard" are nonstandard forms.

Correct answer: Right

Choosing "right" is correct because the sentence needs the word meaning correctly or properly. "Write" means to put words on paper, while "rite," "wright," and "writ" are unrelated words that do not fit the meaning.

Correct answer: Each student must submit his or her own project

Choosing "his or her" is correct because the singular "each student" takes a singular possessive in formal usage. "There" indicates place, "our" shifts to first person, and "its" is used for things, none of which agrees with a singular person.

Correct answer: Accepted

Choosing "accepted" is correct because the sentence needs the verb meaning to receive or approve. "Excepted" means left out, "expected" means anticipated, "exempted" means freed from a rule, and "acception" is not a standard word.

Correct answer: Of all the routes we tried, the coastal road was the most scenic.

Choosing "the most scenic" is correct because the superlative is used when comparing more than two items, here "all the routes." The comparative "more scenic" suits only two, the third choice is illogical, and "scenicest" is a nonstandard form.

Correct answer: The principal reason for the policy change was budget pressure.

Choosing "principal" is correct because here it means main or primary, the adjective the sentence needs. "Principle" means a rule or belief, "principled" means having strong morals, "principals" is a plural noun, and "principel" is a misspelling.

Correct answer: Might have

Choosing "might have" is correct because the standard form combines the modal "might" with "have," not the sound-alike "of." "Might had," "might off," and "may of" are all nonstandard substitutions for "might have."

Correct answer: The river, the longest in the region, floods every spring.

Enclosing "the longest in the region" in two commas is correct because a nonrestrictive appositive that renames the noun is set off on both sides. Using one comma or none fails to mark the appositive and runs the elements together.

Correct answer: Remember to pack three essentials: sunscreen, a hat, and water.

Placing the colon after "Remember to pack three essentials" is correct because a colon introduces a list only after a complete independent clause. Putting the colon right after "pack," after "Remember," or at the end of the sentence misplaces it.

Correct answer: The boss's schedule was posted on Monday.

Writing "boss's" is correct because a singular noun, even one ending in s, typically forms the possessive by adding an apostrophe plus s. "Boss" shows no possession, "bosss" is not a valid form, and "bosses" is a plural with no apostrophe.

Correct answer: Attendance was low; therefore, the event was rescheduled.

Placing a semicolon before "therefore" and a comma after it is correct because a conjunctive adverb joining two independent clauses takes that punctuation. A comma alone creates a splice, and the other versions misplace the semicolon or drop the comma.

Correct answer: Students who fail to register will lose their seats.

Leaving "who fail to register" without commas is correct because the clause is essential to identify which students lose their seats. Setting it off with commas would wrongly mark it as nonessential, implying all students fail to register.

Correct answer: "Have you finished the report?" she asked.

Placing the question mark inside the closing quotation mark and following with "she asked" is correct because the question mark belongs to the quoted question. The other versions put the mark outside, add an extra comma, or enclose the speaker tag inside the quotation.

Correct answer: After "week"

Adding a comma after "week" is correct because it precedes the coordinating conjunction "and" that joins two independent clauses. A comma after "sister," "Denver," or "visiting" would fall inside the first clause and fail to mark the join between the two clauses.

Correct answer: The employees' lounge was renovated over the weekend.

Writing "employees'" is correct because a plural noun ending in s forms the possessive by adding only an apostrophe after the s. "Employees" shows no possession, "employee's" is singular possessive, and "employees's" doubles the marking.

Correct answer: The novel, despite mixed reviews, became a bestseller.

Enclosing "despite mixed reviews" in two commas is correct because the interrupting nonessential phrase is set off on both sides. Using one comma or none fails to separate the phrase from the main clause and disrupts the sentence.

Correct answer: The mayor closed with these words: "Our city will rebuild stronger than before."

Placing the colon after the complete clause "The mayor closed with these words" is correct because a colon introduces a formal quotation after an independent clause. The other versions split the clause or strand the colon at the end, where it introduces nothing.

Correct answer: She wore a bright, cheerful scarf to the party.

Placing the comma between "bright" and "cheerful" is correct because two coordinate adjectives that each modify the noun are separated by a comma. The other versions misplace the comma between an adjective and the noun or after the phrase.

Correct answer: Average math grades rose by a full letter among students who attended weekly.

Citing the full-letter rise in grades is correct because the specific result directly supports the claim that grades improved. The center's location, students' enjoyment, and the general fact about other colleges do not show an effect on grades.

Correct answer: The company's parking lot was repaved last summer.

Removing the sentence about the repaved parking lot is correct because it has nothing to do with telecommuting and productivity, breaking the paragraph's focus. The sentences on fewer interruptions, faster task completion, and eliminated commutes all support the productivity claim.

Correct answer: Expanding public parks improves residents' health, strengthens communities, and raises property values.

Stating that expanding parks improves health, strengthens communities, and raises property values is correct because it offers a focused, arguable claim with clear supporting points. The other sentences give background facts or personal details that do not establish a thesis.

Correct answer: Organizers counted more than twelve thousand visitors over the weekend.

Reporting more than twelve thousand visitors is correct because the specific count directly supports the claim of a large crowd. The general remark about festivals, the list of features, and the planning detail do not provide evidence of crowd size.

Correct answer: The new app loads quickly, organizes notes clearly, and syncs across devices.

Naming that the app loads quickly, organizes notes, and syncs across devices is correct because it gives specific reasons for the paragraph to develop. The other revisions remain vague, mention mixed feelings, or shift to general opinions.

Correct answer: Reported litter complaints fell by half within three months of the program's start.

Reporting that litter complaints fell by half is correct because the detail directly develops the claim that litter was reduced. The volunteers' shirts, the announcement, and the general fact about cities do not show a change in litter.

Correct answer: Year-round schooling reduces summer learning loss, eases family scheduling, and uses buildings efficiently.

Listing reduced learning loss, easier scheduling, and efficient building use is correct because it previews three concrete reasons the body will develop. The other sentences offer vague promises or background that does not preview specific points.

Correct answer: Fortunately, several practical steps can address these difficulties.

Writing that several practical steps can address these difficulties is correct because it links the established problem to the upcoming solutions. The other sentences are too general or unrelated to bridge the two paragraphs.

Correct answer: Indeed

Beginning with "Indeed" is correct because it emphasizes and strengthens the preceding point about cutting costs. "Otherwise," "conversely," and "instead" all signal contrast or an alternative, which does not fit reinforcing the same idea.

Correct answer: 2, 3, 1

The order complaint, then testing, then installing filters is correct because it follows cause and effect: residents complained, tests found the cause, and the city responded "therefore." Any other order places a response before the problem it addresses, contradicting the logical cues.

Correct answer: For example

Beginning with "For example" is correct because it introduces a specific instance of the general statement about hands-on exhibits. "However" and "nevertheless" signal contrast, and "in conclusion" signals a closing, none of which fits an example.

Correct answer: Begin by deciding what question the survey should answer.

Leading with deciding the survey's question is correct because "begin" marks the first logical action before distributing or analyzing anything. The steps beginning with "next," "then," and "finally" all signal later stages of the process.

Correct answer: To begin, the policy lowers waiting times for patients.

Beginning with "To begin, the policy lowers waiting times" is correct because "to begin" clearly introduces the first reason in an organized list. "In conclusion" signals a close, "on the other hand" introduces opposition, and "meanwhile" shifts to a different subject.

Correct answer: Although

Beginning with "Although" is correct because it concedes the benefits while setting up the contrasting drawback in the main clause. "Because" signals cause, "therefore" signals result, and "likewise" signals similarity, none of which fits a concession and counter.

Correct answer: Years later, it operated factories on three continents.

Choosing "Years later, it operated factories on three continents" is correct because it marks the latest point in the chronological sequence. "At first," "shortly afterward," and "in its earliest days" all point to earlier stages and would not signal the final event.

Correct answer: The two ideas are similar in many ways.

Reducing it to "The two ideas are similar in many ways" is correct because "similar," "alike," and "the same" repeat one idea, so keeping a single term removes the redundancy. The other revisions retain or rearrange the duplicated words.

Correct answer: Water seeped through the crack in the foundation.

Choosing "seeped" is correct because it precisely conveys slow movement through a small opening. "Went" is vague, while "happened" and "did stuff" are imprecise and do not describe the manner of movement.

Correct answer: The experiment did not produce the expected results.

Writing "The experiment did not produce the expected results" is correct because it reports the outcome in measured, formal language suited to an essay. "Flop," "bust," "bombed," and "failed bad" are casual and imprecise expressions.

Correct answer: The team worked intensely to finish the project.

Replacing the cliché with "worked intensely" is correct because it states the idea directly without a worn-out expression. The other revisions substitute another cliché or pile on additional stock phrases.

Correct answer: To

Replacing "In order to" with "To" is correct because the single word conveys the same purpose concisely. The other choices are longer, roundabout phrasings that add words without adding meaning.

Correct answer: The mayor approved a budget that drew criticism over its spending.

Writing that the budget "drew criticism over its spending" is correct because it reports the situation without emotionally charged judgments. "Careless," "wasteful," "reckless," and "questionable" all inject bias unsuited to an objective report.

Correct answer: She decided to postpone the meeting.

Writing "She decided to postpone the meeting" is correct because "decided" replaces "made the decision to" and "postpone" already means to move to a later date, making "until a later date" redundant. The other versions keep the wordy phrase or the redundant time reference.

Correct answer: The remark drew a chuckle from the audience.

Choosing "chuckle" is correct because it precisely names a brief, quiet burst of laughter. "Noise," "reaction," and "thing" are vague and do not specify laughter at all.

Correct answer: The waiter served a steak cooked rare to the customer.

Placing "cooked rare" right after "steak" is correct because a modifier belongs next to the noun it describes, making clear the steak, not the customer, was cooked rare. The other versions leave the phrase attached to the customer or the waiter.

Correct answer: The course covers reading, writing, and public speaking.

Listing "reading," "writing," and "public speaking" is correct because all three items appear as nouns, keeping the series parallel. The other versions mix a clause or an infinitive into the list, breaking the grammatical balance.

Correct answer: The museum closed early; the staff needed to install a new exhibit.

Placing a semicolon between the two independent clauses is correct because a semicolon can join closely related clauses that could each stand alone. The other versions add a subordinator after the semicolon or misplace it inside a clause.

Correct answer: The recipe calls for fresh herbs, and it requires careful timing.

Using "requires" is correct because the second clause needs a finite verb that agrees with the singular "it." The participle "requiring" leaves no main verb, "require" disagrees in number, and the last choice removes the finite verb from both clauses.

Correct answer: The conductor signaled the departure.

"The conductor signaled the departure" is correct because it pairs the subject "conductor" with the verb "signaled" and expresses a complete thought. The other choices are a dependent clause or phrases that lack a finite verb and a complete idea.

Correct answer: Although the forecast predicted rain, the afternoon stayed dry.

Opening with "Although" is correct because it subordinates the first clause and signals the contrast between the prediction and the outcome. The comma-only version is a splice, the third is a run-on, and "so" wrongly implies cause and effect.

Correct answer: The library extended its hours so students could study later into the night.

Using "so" to link the clauses is correct because it joins the ideas smoothly and shows the purpose of the extended hours. The comma-only version splices the clauses, and the other two misplace punctuation that fractures the sentence.

Correct answer: She likes hiking, swimming, and riding her bike on weekends.

Listing "hiking," "swimming," and "riding" is correct because all three activities appear as gerunds, keeping the series parallel. The other versions mix gerunds with infinitives or a conjugated verb, breaking the grammatical balance.

Correct answer: Effect

Keeping "effect" is correct because the sentence needs the noun meaning a result, the thing the schedule produced. "Affect" is usually a verb meaning to influence, and the plural forms do not fit the singular subject of the sentence.

Correct answer: Each of the volunteers has

Choosing "Each of the volunteers has" is correct because "each" is singular and governs the verb despite the plural "volunteers" in the prepositional phrase. The plural "have" and "are" disagree, "having" leaves no finite verb, and "volunteer" creates a new mismatch.

Correct answer: To Marco and me

Choosing "to Marco and me" is correct because the pronoun is the object of the preposition "to" and requires the objective form "me." The subjective "I" is wrong as an object, "myself" needs an antecedent, and reordering does not fix the case.

Correct answer: There were fewer cars on the road and less traffic this morning.

Pairing "fewer cars" with "less traffic" is correct because "fewer" modifies the countable "cars" and "less" modifies the uncountable "traffic." The other versions misapply one or both words to nouns of the wrong type.

Correct answer: Effect

Choosing "effect" is correct because the sentence needs the noun meaning a result, the impact the drought had. "Affect" is normally a verb, "affects" and "effects" are plural, and "affecting" is a participle that does not fit after "a serious."

Correct answer: Equally

Choosing "equally" is correct because an adverb is needed to modify the verb "shared," describing how they divided the prize. "Equal" is an adjective, "equality" is a noun, and the comparative and superlative forms do not fit the action.

Correct answer: The coach and the captain disagree about the lineup.

Choosing "disagree" is correct because two subjects joined by "and" form a plural that takes a plural verb. The singular "disagrees" and "has disagreed" do not match the plural subject, and "disagreeing" leaves no finite verb.

Correct answer: Would have

Choosing "would have" is correct because the standard form combines the modal "would" with "have," not the sound-alike "of." "Would had," "would of had," and "would off" are all nonstandard substitutions for "would have."

Correct answer: The final score - an unexpected upset - shocked the crowd.

Setting off "an unexpected upset" with a dash on each side is correct because a pair of dashes marks an interrupting explanation. Using one dash or commas inconsistently fails to enclose the inserted element on both sides.

Correct answer: The bridge, which was built in 1920, is closed for repairs.

Enclosing "which was built in 1920" in two commas is correct because a nonessential clause adding extra information is set off on both sides. Using one comma or none fails to mark the clause as nonessential.

Correct answer: When the alarm sounded, the workers calmly left the building.

Placing the comma after "sounded" is correct because an introductory dependent clause is followed by a comma before the main clause. Omitting it or misplacing it inside a clause fails to mark the boundary between the two clauses.

Correct answer: The kit includes bandages, scissors, tape, and gloves.

Separating each item with a comma is correct because items in a series are divided by commas, including before the final conjunction. The other versions omit needed commas or add commas where no separation belongs.

Correct answer: It's going to rain before the parade begins.

Writing "It's" is correct because the contraction of "it is" takes an apostrophe before the s. "Its" is the possessive form, "its'" is not a valid word, and "Its is" is redundant.

Correct answer: After "credit"

Adding a comma after "credit" is correct because it precedes the coordinating conjunction "and" that joins two independent clauses. A comma after "coworker," "fundraiser," or "thank" would fall inside a clause and fail to mark the join.

Correct answer: The reason for the delay was simple: a key supplier missed its deadline.

Placing the colon after the complete clause "The reason for the delay was simple" is correct because a colon introduces an explanation after an independent clause. The other versions split the clause or strand the colon where it introduces nothing.

Correct answer: Finally, water the seedling thoroughly to help it settle.

Ending with watering the seedling is correct because "finally" marks the last logical action after digging, placing, and filling. The steps beginning with "first," "next," and "then" all signal earlier stages of the process.

Correct answer: 2, 3, 1

The order review, then the owner falling behind, then hiring is correct because it follows cause and effect: the review brought customers, the owner could not keep up, and so she hired help. Any other order places the hiring before the demand that caused it.

Correct answer: Clearly

Beginning with "Clearly" is correct because it draws a conclusion from the listed evidence of success. "Nevertheless" and "in contrast" signal opposition, and "meanwhile" signals a simultaneous event, none of which fits a conclusion.

Correct answer: These causes, in turn, lead to several troubling consequences.

Writing that the causes lead to several troubling consequences is correct because it links the established causes to the upcoming discussion of consequences. The other sentences are too general or unrelated to bridge the two paragraphs.

Correct answer: However

Beginning with "However" is correct because it signals the contrast between the low cost and the early breakdown. "Therefore" shows result, "likewise" shows similarity, and "furthermore" adds a related point, none of which fits a contrast.

Correct answer: In addition

Beginning with "In addition" is correct because it introduces a second supporting reason alongside the first. "On the contrary" and "by contrast" signal opposition, and "until then" signals time, none of which fits adding a reason.

Correct answer: The data showed considerable variation and lacked a clear pattern.

Writing "The data showed considerable variation and lacked a clear pattern" is correct because it describes the results in precise, formal language suited to a research paper. "All over the place," "messy," and "super confusing" are casual and imprecise.

Correct answer: Because

Replacing the phrase with "Because" is correct because the single word conveys the same cause concisely. The other choices are longer, roundabout phrasings that add words without adding meaning.

Correct answer: An aroma drifted from the kitchen.

Choosing "aroma" is correct because it precisely names a faint, pleasant smell, especially of food. "Smell" is neutral and vague, while "thing" and "something" do not name a scent at all.

Correct answer: The company reduced its employees' pay.

Writing that the company "reduced its employees' pay" is correct because it reports the action without emotionally charged judgments. "Greedy," "ruthlessly," "loyal," and "heartless" all inject bias unsuited to an objective report.

Correct answer: The outcome of the vote was a complete victory.

Reducing it to "The outcome of the vote was a complete victory" is correct because "final" repeats the idea in "outcome" and "total" repeats "complete," so trimming both removes the redundancy. The other revisions keep or rearrange the duplicated words.

Correct answer: The crowd surged toward the exits.

Choosing "surged" is correct because it precisely conveys a forceful, rushing movement of a crowd. "Moved" is vague, "was by" describes position rather than motion, and "did things" is imprecise.

Correct answer: The program cut landfill fees by two hundred thousand dollars last year.

Citing the two-hundred-thousand-dollar cut in landfill fees is correct because the specific savings directly support the claim that the city saved money. The bins, residents' feelings, and the general trend do not show a financial effect.

Correct answer: The grocery store nearby recently changed its logo.

Removing the sentence about the store's logo is correct because it has nothing to do with the benefits of a balanced diet, breaking the paragraph's focus. The sentences on vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins all support the diet's benefits.

Correct answer: Teaching financial literacy helps students avoid debt, build savings, and make informed choices.

Stating that financial literacy helps students avoid debt, build savings, and make informed choices is correct because it offers a focused, arguable claim with clear supporting points. The other sentences give background or vague observations that do not establish a thesis.

Correct answer: The new policy raises overtime pay, shortens shifts, and adds paid sick days.

Naming that the policy raises overtime pay, shortens shifts, and adds sick days is correct because it gives specific effects for the paragraph to develop. The other revisions remain vague or shift to general feelings without concrete detail.

Correct answer: Within two months, more than three hundred people joined its rewards program.

Reporting that more than three hundred people joined the rewards program is correct because the specific number directly supports the claim of loyal customers gained quickly. The general remark, the product list, and the planning detail do not show customer loyalty.

Correct answer: The collection of rare coins is kept in a locked vault downtown.

Choosing "collection ... is kept" is correct because the singular subject "collection" governs the verb, not the plural "coins" inside the prepositional phrase. "Are" and "were" agree with the wrong noun, and "being" leaves no finite verb in the clause.

Correct answer: The verdict was finally announced—and the courtroom fell silent.

Placing the em dash before "and the courtroom fell silent" is correct because the dash marks a dramatic break while keeping the clauses readable. The first version omits punctuation, and the others insert a comma or dash that interrupts the sentence mid-thought.

Correct answer: Cities with protected bike lanes report sharply fewer cycling injuries.

Citing fewer cycling injuries in cities with protected lanes is correct because the specific outcome directly backs the claim that the city should add bike lanes. The bicycle styles, the mayor's habit, and the lane colors give no evidence about the benefit of building lanes.

Correct answer: Effect

Choosing "effect" is correct because the sentence needs the verb meaning to bring about or accomplish the climb. "Affect" usually means to influence, "affecting" and "effected" are wrong forms here, and "afect" is a misspelling.

Correct answer: Consequently

Beginning with "Consequently" is correct because it shows that the alternate routes resulted from the bridge closure. "Similarly" signals likeness, "in contrast" signals opposition, and "meanwhile" signals simultaneous action, none of which conveys cause and effect.

Correct answer: Caused widespread flooding and downed power lines along the coast

Choosing "widespread flooding and downed power lines" is correct because it names concrete damage in place of the vague "a lot of bad stuff." The other revisions keep imprecise terms like "things," "some issues," and "various problems" that fail to specify the damage.

Correct answer: The recipe looked complicated; the result was surprisingly simple to make.

Placing a semicolon between the two clauses is correct because a semicolon joins closely related independent clauses without a conjunction. A comma alone creates a splice, the third choice misplaces the semicolon, and pairing a semicolon with "and" is redundant.

Correct answer: 2, 1, 3

The order planting, then shoots, then full sunflowers is correct because it follows the time cues from "early spring" to "within a week" to "by summer." Any other arrangement places a later stage of growth before the planting that must come first.

Correct answer: The child eagerly reached for the strawberries covered in chocolate.

Placing "covered in chocolate" next to "strawberries" is correct because the modifier should describe the strawberries, not the child. The opening-phrase versions still attach the phrase to the child, and the last revision states the child, not the fruit, was covered in chocolate.

Correct answer: 42

The value is $42$. Multiplication is performed before addition, so $6 \times 5 = 30$ is computed first, then $12 + 30 = 42$. Adding $12 + 6$ to get $18$ and then multiplying by $5$ ignores the precedence of multiplication and gives $90$.

Correct answer: The multiplication $8 \times 2$

The multiplication $8 \times 2$ is performed first. Order of operations places multiplication ahead of addition and subtraction, so $8 \times 2 = 16$ is evaluated before the expression becomes $40 - 16 + 3$. Doing the subtraction or addition first violates the precedence rule.

Correct answer: 3,408

There are $3{,}408$ pencils left. The total is $32 \times 144 = 4{,}608$ pencils, and subtracting the $1{,}200$ handed out gives $4{,}608 - 1{,}200 = 3{,}408$. Stopping at the total of $4{,}608$ ignores the pencils that were distributed.

Correct answer: 16

The result is $16$. The parentheses are evaluated first $(10 - 4 = 6)$, and then division and multiplication are done left to right: $48 \div 6 = 8$, then $8 \times 2 = 16$. Multiplying before dividing, or dividing by $10$ first, produces an incorrect value.

Correct answer: 13

The value is $13$. The exponent is evaluated first, so $5^2 = 25$, then the multiplication $3 \times 4 = 12$, and finally $25 - 12 = 13$. Subtracting $3$ from $25$ before multiplying, or multiplying before the exponent, gives the wrong result.

Correct answer: 273

The factory fills $273$ full crates. Dividing $2{,}184$ by $8$ gives exactly $273$ with no remainder, so all parts fit into $273$ crates. Subtracting $8$ from $2{,}184$ or adding instead of dividing produces the incorrect choices.

Correct answer: 12

The value is $12$. The parentheses give $7 + 5 = 12$, the exponent gives $2^3 = 8$, then the division $12 \div 3 = 4$, and finally $4 + 8 = 12$. Adding before dividing or skipping the exponent step leads to incorrect totals.

Correct answer: $\frac{11}{12}$

The sum is $\frac{11}{12}$. Using a common denominator of $12$ gives $\frac{3}{4} = \frac{9}{12}$ and $\frac{1}{6} = \frac{2}{12}$, so $\frac{9}{12} + \frac{2}{12} = \frac{11}{12}$. Adding the numerators and denominators directly to get $\frac{4}{10}$ is not a valid way to add fractions.

Correct answer: Multiply $\frac{5}{8}$ by $\frac{4}{3}$

The correct first step is multiplying $\frac{5}{8}$ by $\frac{4}{3}$, the reciprocal of $\frac{3}{4}$. Dividing by a fraction is equivalent to multiplying by its reciprocal, giving $\frac{5 \times 4}{8 \times 3} = \frac{20}{24} = \frac{5}{6}$. Multiplying by $\frac{3}{4}$ without flipping, or flipping the wrong fraction, gives an incorrect quotient.

Correct answer: $1\tfrac{5}{6}$ cups

The remaining juice is $1\tfrac{5}{6}$ cups. Converting to sixths gives $3\tfrac{2}{6} - 1\tfrac{3}{6}$; borrowing one whole turns $3\tfrac{2}{6}$ into $2\tfrac{8}{6}$, and $2\tfrac{8}{6} - 1\tfrac{3}{6} = 1\tfrac{5}{6}$. Subtracting without borrowing leads to the incorrect choices.

Correct answer: $\frac{5}{12}$

The product is $\frac{5}{12}$. Multiplying numerators and denominators gives $\frac{10}{24}$, which reduces by dividing both by $2$ to reach $\frac{5}{12}$. The unreduced $\frac{10}{24}$ has the right value but is not in lowest terms, and $\frac{7}{11}$ comes from incorrectly adding.

Correct answer: $\frac{31}{7}$

The equivalent improper fraction is $\frac{31}{7}$. Multiplying the whole number $4$ by the denominator $7$ gives $28$, and adding the numerator $3$ gives $31$ over the original denominator $7$. Attaching the digits to form $\frac{43}{7}$ or adding $4$ and $3$ are both incorrect conversions.

Correct answer: $4\tfrac{1}{3}$

The sum is $4\tfrac{1}{3}$. Adding the whole numbers gives $3$, and converting the fractions to sixths gives $\frac{5}{6} + \frac{3}{6} = \frac{8}{6} = 1\tfrac{2}{6}$; combining $3 + 1\tfrac{2}{6} = 4\tfrac{2}{6}$, which reduces to $4\tfrac{1}{3}$. Adding numerators and denominators separately gives the invalid result $3\tfrac{6}{8}$.

Correct answer: 10

Ten pieces are made. Dividing $\frac{5}{6}$ by $\frac{1}{12}$ means multiplying $\frac{5}{6}$ by $\frac{12}{1}$, giving $\frac{5 \times 12}{6} = \frac{60}{6} = 10$. Multiplying $\frac{5}{6}$ by $\frac{1}{12}$ instead of dividing gives a tiny fraction rather than a count of pieces.

Correct answer: 16.05

The sum is $16.05$. Aligning the decimal points and adding gives $12.60 + 3.45 = 16.05$. Failing to line up the place values, such as treating $12.6$ as $12.06$, produces the incorrect totals.

Correct answer: Three

The product will have three decimal places. The factor $0.07$ has two decimal places and $0.6$ has one, and the number of decimal places in the product equals their sum, so $0.07 \times 0.6 = 0.042$ has three. Reporting fewer places would misplace the decimal point.

Correct answer: 2.125 liters

The total volume is $2.125$ liters. Aligning the decimals and adding $0.850 + 1.200 + 0.075$ gives $2.125$. Misaligning the place values when adding numbers with different lengths leads to the other results.

Correct answer: 24

The quotient is $24$. Multiplying both numbers by $10$ clears the decimal in the divisor, turning the problem into $96 \div 4 = 24$. Dividing without adjusting the divisor gives $2.4$, which misplaces the decimal point.

Correct answer: 5.45

The difference is $5.45$. Writing $14.2$ as $14.20$ and aligning place values gives $14.20 - 8.75 = 5.45$. Subtracting the digits without aligning the decimal points produces incorrect results.

Correct answer: $129.60

The total cost is $129.60. Multiplying $32.40 by $4$ gives $32.40 \times 4 = 129.60$. Adding $32.40 and $4$ instead of multiplying gives $36.40, and rounding errors produce the other amounts.

Correct answer: 0.1

The product is $0.1$. Multiplying $25 \times 4$ gives $100$, and since the factors together have three decimal places, the decimal point is placed to yield $0.100$, which is written as $0.1$. Misplacing the decimal point produces $0.01$ or $1.0$.

Correct answer: 60

The result is $60$. Finding $40\%$ means multiplying $0.40 \times 150$, which equals $60$. Subtracting $40$ from $150$ to get $110$ confuses a percent of a number with a difference.

Correct answer: $0.80$

You multiply by $0.80$. A $20\%$ decrease leaves $100\%$ minus $20\%$, which is $80\%$ or the factor $0.80$, of the original amount. Multiplying by $0.20$ finds only the amount removed, and $1.20$ represents a $20\%$ increase.

Correct answer: $260

The sale price is $260. A $35\%$ discount removes $0.35 \times 400 = 140$ dollars, leaving $400 - 140 = 260$ dollars, or equivalently $0.65 \times 400 = 260$ dollars. The value $140 is only the discount, not the final price.

Correct answer: $30\%$

The player got a hit in $30\%$ of at-bats. Dividing $51$ by $170$ gives $0.30$, which equals $30\%$. Subtracting $51$ from $170$ to get $119$ mistakes the number of outs for a percent.

Correct answer: $15\%$

The percent decrease is $15\%$. The decrease is $800 - 680 = 120$, and dividing the change by the original amount gives $120 \div 800 = 0.15$, or $15\%$. Dividing by the new balance instead of the original produces an incorrect percent.

Correct answer: $60$

The number is $60$. Since $45$ represents $75\%$ of the whole, dividing $45$ by $0.75$ recovers the whole: $45 \div 0.75 = 60$. Multiplying $45$ by $0.75$ instead of dividing gives $33.75$, which reverses the operation.

Correct answer: $636

The account will hold $636. The interest is $0.06 \times 600 = 36$ dollars, and adding it to the original $600 gives $600 + 36 = 636$ dollars. Reporting $36 gives only the interest, while adding $6$ instead of the computed interest gives $606.

Correct answer: $81

The final price is $81. The $25\%$ discount leaves $0.75 \times 120 = 90$ dollars, and then the additional $10\%$ off leaves $0.90 \times 90 = 81$ dollars. Adding the two percents to take $35\%$ off at once gives $78, which does not match successive discounts.

Correct answer: >

The correct symbol is the greater-than sign. Converting $\frac{5}{8}$ to a decimal gives $0.625$, and $0.625$ is greater than $0.6$, so $\frac{5}{8} > 0.6$. Assuming the decimal must be larger because it is written as a decimal leads to the wrong choice.

Correct answer: $0.68$

The least value is $0.68$. Converting all to decimals gives $\frac{3}{4} = 0.75$, $0.7$, $\frac{7}{10} = 0.70$, and $0.68$, so $0.68$ is the smallest. Note that $0.7$ and $\frac{7}{10}$ are equal, while $0.68$ falls just below both.

Correct answer: $0.5$

The value $0.5$ lies between them. Since $\frac{2}{5} = 0.4$ and $\frac{3}{5} = 0.6$, a number between them must be greater than $0.4$ and less than $0.6$, and $0.5$ satisfies both conditions. The values $0.3$ and $0.35$ are too small, while $0.7$ is too large.

Correct answer: $0.36$

The equivalent decimal is $0.36$. Dividing $9$ by $25$ gives $0.36$, or equivalently scaling $\frac{9}{25}$ to $\frac{36}{100}$. Reading the numerator and denominator as digits to form $0.925$ ignores the actual division.