Correcting Verb Mood Errors - PSAT Writing

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Question

Replace the underlined portion with the answer choice that results in a sentence that is clear, precise, and meets the requirements of standard written English.

Victory is the ultimate goal of any general, but too precise a focus can clouds a leader's judgement.

Answer

The phrase underlined in the sentence uses the modal verb "can," which conditions what might happen in the future. The verb form "clouds" is incorrect as the verb after "can" still needs to feature the singular form necessary with the subject "focus." "Can cloud a leader's judgement" is the best choice among the answer.

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Question

Replace the underlined portion with the answer choice that results in a sentence that is clear, precise, and meets the requirements of standard written English.

I would make it a priority to visit Rome if I was able to travel to Europe.

Answer

To talk about a hypothetical situation, you must use a verb that employs the subjunctive mood—"if I were" instead of "if I was," in the case of this specific sentence. “I was” is the simple past tense.

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