9Let’s assume you did NOT catch the Subject Verb Agreement error when you read the sentence. But you do
believe there is an error. Skim the answer choices for a visual tip off. Notice that (A), (B), and (C) start with “is”
and (D) and (E) start with “are.” There’s your error. Before reading the answer choices, ask: What “is” or “are”?
Challenges. “Challenges” is plural, so it needs to be partnered with a plural verb, are. Eliminate (A), (B), and
(C), which all have “is.” No sense in wasting time reading them.
Step 2: Compare the answers you have left.
In this case, (D) and (E).
(D) “are many challenges associated...” fixes the error and doesn’t create any new errors.
I like it.
(E) “are many challenges” works but “which associate” changes the intended meaning of
the sentence. Now instead of challenges BEING associated with, the challenges are
DOING the associating.
Correct Answer: (D)
When you look at the answer choices for similarities and differences, don’t just look
at the beginning of the underlined phrase. The error might be in the middle and is
very often at the end of the underlined portion of the sentence.
One of those three approaches should be used on every Sentence Correction question.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when dealing with Sentence Corrections:
Beware of answers that fix an error, but create a new error!
- ETS loves to fix an error in an answer choice, but create a new one. Don’t fall for it!
The shortest, most concise answers are the best!
- Stay away from wordy, long answer choices.
Beware of “ing” words, especially “having” and “being!”
- “ing” words are notorious for creating sentence fragments and wordy, confusing sentences.
There is many challenges associated with living
with someone for the first time.(A) is many challenges associated
(B) is many challenges to associate
(C) is many challenges associating
(D) are many challenges associated
(E) are many challenges which associate