PSAT Writing and Language Question 15: Answer and Explanation

Question: 15

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. has been attacking
• C. attacks
• D. could be said to attack

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Verbs change in the answer choices, so this question tests consistency of verbs. A verb must be consistent with its subject and with the other verbs in the sentence. The subject of the verb is pragmatism, which is singular. To be consistent, the underlined verb must also be singular. The other verb in the sentence is turns, which is in the present tense. To be consistent, the underlined verb must also be in the present tense. Eliminate (A) and (B) because they are not in the present tense. Eliminate (D) because the phrase could be said to is not concise. The correct answer is (C).