Multiple choice

Directions: The following sentences test correctness and effectiveness of expression. Part of each sentence or the entire sentence is underlined; beneath each sentence are five ways of phrasing the underlined material. Choice A repeats the original phrasing; the other four choices are different. If you think the original phrasing produces a better sentence than any of the alternatives, select choice A. If not, select one of the other choices.

In making your selection, follow the requirements of standard written English; that is pay attention to grammar, choice of words, sentence construction, and punctuation. Your selection should result in the most effective sentence - clear and precise, without awkwardness or ambiguity.

Three years have passed since the author of the present work ventured to lay them before the public, not without the unusual anxiety.

  1. since the author of the present work ventured to lay them before the public

  2. since the author of the present work ventured to lay it before the public

  3. since the author of the present work laid them before the public

  4. for the author of the present work to lay it before the public

  5. for the author of the present work to venture to lay it before the public
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Error of pronoun agreement. Antecedent 'work' is singular and the pronoun following it should also be singular (it) not plural (them). The option rectifies the error.

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