PSAT Writing and Language Question 13: Answer and Explanation

Question: 13

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. encompasses
• C. do encompass
• D. are encompassing

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

Verbs change in the answer choices, so this question tests consistency of verbs. A verb must be consistent in number with its subject. Locate the subject of the verb: the array. Notice that of lectures that would become Pragmatism is a phrase describing the array, so the subject cannot be found in that describing phrase. Furthermore, the sentence contains another verb, adds, that is singular. This can be tested by substituting the pronouns "it" and "they." The correct phrase is "it adds," not "they adds," so adds is singular because it goes with "it." Because array and adds are singular, the verb must also be singular to be consistent. Eliminate (A), (C), and (D) because they are all plural. Only (B), encompasses, is singular. The correct answer is (B).