ENGLISH GRAMMAR – A COMPLETE & COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
1. INTRODUCTION TO ENGLISH GRAMMAR
English grammar is the foundation of effective communication. Whether you are preparing for competitive exams, writing emails, speaking in interviews, or improving general communication, understanding grammar gives clarity, correctness, and confidence.
Grammar is not about memorizing rules—it is about learning how language works.
Think of grammar as the operating system of English.
Just like a mobile phone needs an OS like Android or iOS, English needs grammar to work smoothly.
Why Is English Grammar Important?
-
It helps you speak and write correctly.
-
It avoids misunderstandings.
-
It improves professional communication.
-
It increases exam scores (SSC, UPSC, banking, IELTS, TOEFL).
-
It boosts confidence during speaking.
Grammar in Real Life
You use grammar when you:
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Ask questions
-
Explain ideas
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Write social media posts
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Talk to friends
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Send emails
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Give presentations
So learning grammar is useful for everyone—students, professionals, teachers, and job seekers.
2. PARTS OF SPEECH (DETAILED)
English has 8 major parts of speech, sometimes 9 including determiners.
They are:
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Noun
-
Pronoun
-
Verb
-
Adjective
-
Adverb
-
Preposition
-
Conjunction
-
Interjection
-
Determiner (extra category)
We will deeply understand each category with simple explanations and examples.
2.1 NOUN
A noun is the name of a person, place, thing, idea, or feeling.
Examples:
-
Rohan, India, laptop, honesty, happiness, city, teacher, car, water
Types of Nouns
1. Proper Noun
Specific names
-
Delhi, Amazon, Monday, Taj Mahal
Rule:
✔ Always begins with a capital letter.
2. Common Noun
General names
-
city, river, girl, doctor, country
3. Collective Noun
Names of groups
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team, bunch, crowd, army, flock
4. Abstract Noun
Qualities, feelings, ideas
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love, anger, bravery, truth, kindness
5. Material Noun
Substances
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gold, water, cotton, sugar, wood
6. Countable and Uncountable Noun
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Countable: book, apple, chair
-
Uncountable: milk, sand, information
Plural Rules (Important)
| Rule | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Add s | book | books |
| Add es | bus | buses |
| Words ending in y → ies | baby | babies |
| Words ending in f/fe → ves | leaf | leaves |
| Irregular plurals | child | children |
2.2 PRONOUN
A pronoun replaces a noun to avoid repetition.
Examples:
-
he, she, it, they, you, we, this, that
Types of Pronouns
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Personal pronoun — I, you, he, she, we, they
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Reflexive pronoun — myself, yourself, himself
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Demonstrative pronoun — this, that, these, those
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Interrogative pronoun — who, what, which
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Possessive pronoun — mine, yours, theirs
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Relative pronoun — who, which, that
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Indefinite pronoun — someone, anybody, few
2.3 VERB
A verb is an action or state of being.
Examples:
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Action: run, eat, write, jump
-
State: is, am, are, was, were
Types of Verbs
1. Main Verb
Shows action
-
go, play, write
2. Helping (Auxiliary) Verb
Supports main verb
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is, am, are, was, were, has, have, had
3. Modal Verb
Shows possibility, permission, ability
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can, could, may, might, must, should, will, would
2.4 ADJECTIVE
An adjective describes a noun.
Examples:
-
beautiful girl, tall building, hot coffee
Types of Adjectives
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Quality — big, smart, heavy
-
Quantity — some, many, few
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Number — first, second, ten
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Demonstrative — this, that
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Possessive — my, your
2.5 ADVERB
An adverb describes a verb, adjective, or another adverb.
Examples:
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He runs quickly.
-
She is very smart.
Types:
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Manner: slowly, nicely
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Time: yesterday, now
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Place: here, there
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Frequency: always, never
2.6 PREPOSITION
A preposition shows the relationship between words.
Examples:
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in, on, at, under, between, behind, near
Sentences:
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The cat is under the table.
-
He lives in Mumbai.
2.7 CONJUNCTION
Conjunctions join words, phrases, or clauses.
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Coordinating: and, but, or, so
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Subordinating: because, although, if, when
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Correlative: either…or, neither…nor
2.8 INTERJECTION
Shows sudden emotion.
-
Wow! Oh! Hey! Alas!
2.9 DETERMINERS
Determiners come before nouns.
Types:
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Articles: a, an, the
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Demonstratives: this, that
-
Quantifiers: some, many, few
-
Possessives: my, your
3. TENSES IN ENGLISH GRAMMAR
Tenses tell us when an action happened—in the past, present, or future.
Every English sentence uses a tense, so mastering tenses is essential for correct speaking and writing.
3.1 WHAT IS TENSE?
Tense shows time of an action.
| Time | Tense |
|---|---|
| Now | Present Tense |
| Past | Past Tense |
| Later / Future | Future Tense |
3.2 THE THREE MAIN TENSES
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Present Tense – Action happening now or regularly.
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Past Tense – Action happened in the past.
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Future Tense – Action will happen later.
3.2.1 PRESENT TENSE
1. Present Simple
Usage: Facts, habits, repeated actions
Structure: Subject + base verb (s/es for 3rd person singular)
-
Examples:
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I eat rice every day.
-
She plays cricket.
-
The sun rises in the east.
-
Signal words: always, every day, usually, often, sometimes
2. Present Continuous (Progressive)
Usage: Action happening now or around now
Structure: Subject + am/is/are + verb + ing
-
Examples:
-
I am reading a book.
-
They are playing football.
-
She is cooking dinner.
-
Signal words: now, at the moment, currently
3. Present Perfect
Usage: Past action with present result
Structure: Subject + has/have + past participle
-
Examples:
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I have finished my homework.
-
She has gone to school.
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They have lived here for 5 years.
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Signal words: already, yet, just, ever, never, so far
4. Present Perfect Continuous
Usage: Action started in the past and is still continuing
Structure: Subject + has/have + been + verb + ing
-
Examples:
-
I have been reading for 2 hours.
-
They have been working since morning.
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She has been studying English for 5 years.
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Signal words: for, since, all day, recently
3.2.2 PAST TENSE
1. Past Simple
Usage: Completed action in the past
Structure: Subject + past verb
-
Examples:
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I visited Delhi last year.
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She cooked dinner yesterday.
-
They played cricket yesterday.
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Signal words: yesterday, last week, in 2019, ago
2. Past Continuous
Usage: Action ongoing at a specific time in the past
Structure: Subject + was/were + verb + ing
-
Examples:
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I was reading when he called.
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They were playing football at 5 pm.
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She was cooking when I arrived.
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Signal words: while, when, at that time
3. Past Perfect
Usage: Action completed before another past action
Structure: Subject + had + past participle
-
Examples:
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I had finished my work before he came.
-
She had gone to school before it started raining.
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They had eaten dinner before we arrived.
-
Signal words: before, after, by the time
4. Past Perfect Continuous
Usage: Action ongoing before another past action
Structure: Subject + had + been + verb + ing
-
Examples:
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I had been reading for two hours before she came.
-
They had been working all day when it started raining.
-
She had been studying English before moving to London.
-
Signal words: for, since, all day, before
3.2.3 FUTURE TENSE
1. Future Simple
Usage: Action that will happen in the future
Structure: Subject + will + base verb
-
Examples:
-
I will go to school tomorrow.
-
She will call you later.
-
They will play cricket next week.
-
Signal words: tomorrow, next week, soon, in the future
2. Future Continuous
Usage: Action ongoing at a future time
Structure: Subject + will + be + verb + ing
-
Examples:
-
I will be reading at 7 pm.
-
They will be playing football at this time tomorrow.
-
She will be cooking dinner when you arrive.
-
Signal words: at this time tomorrow, at 5 pm next week
3. Future Perfect
Usage: Action will be completed before a future time
Structure: Subject + will + have + past participle
-
Examples:
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I will have finished work by 5 pm.
-
She will have left before you come.
-
They will have completed the project by Monday.
-
Signal words: by, before, by the time
4. Future Perfect Continuous
Usage: Action will be ongoing before a future time
Structure: Subject + will + have + been + verb + ing
-
Examples:
-
I will have been studying for 3 hours by 7 pm.
-
They will have been working for 5 hours by lunchtime.
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She will have been teaching for 10 years by next year.
-
Signal words: for, by, since
3.3 TENSES MADE EASY WITH TABLE
| Tense | Structure | Example | Signal Words |
|---|---|---|---|
| Present Simple | S + V(s/es) | I eat rice | always, usually |
| Present Continuous | S + am/is/are + V-ing | I am reading | now, at the moment |
| Present Perfect | S + has/have + V3 | I have finished | already, yet |
| Present Perfect Continuous | S + has/have + been + V-ing | I have been reading | for, since |
| Past Simple | S + V2 | I visited Delhi | yesterday, ago |
| Past Continuous | S + was/were + V-ing | I was reading | when, while |
| Past Perfect | S + had + V3 | I had finished | before, by the time |
| Past Perfect Continuous | S + had + been + V-ing | I had been reading | for, since |
| Future Simple | S + will + V | I will go | tomorrow, soon |
| Future Continuous | S + will + be + V-ing | I will be reading | at this time tomorrow |
| Future Perfect | S + will + have + V3 | I will have finished | by, before |
| Future Perfect Continuous | S + will + have + been + V-ing | I will have been reading | for, by |
3.4 COMMON MISTAKES IN TENSES
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Using present instead of past
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❌ I go to school yesterday.
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✅ I went to school yesterday.
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Using past instead of present perfect
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❌ I have finished my homework yesterday.
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✅ I finished my homework yesterday.
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Forgetting -ing in continuous tense
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❌ She is cook dinner.
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✅ She is cooking dinner.
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Confusing future tenses
-
❌ I will be finish work by 5 pm.
-
✅ I will have finished work by 5 pm.
3.5 TIPS TO MASTER TENSES
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Always look for time signals like yesterday, now, tomorrow, already, since, for.
-
Practice simple sentences first, then move to complex sentences.
-
Make daily sentences in all tenses to get used to patterns.
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Remember that continuous tenses always need -ing form.
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Use present perfect for experiences or actions affecting the present.
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Use future perfect for actions completed before a certain time in future.
4. SENTENCE STRUCTURE
A sentence is a group of words that expresses a complete thought.
Every sentence must have a subject and a predicate (verb).
4.1 TYPES OF SENTENCES BASED ON STRUCTURE
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Simple Sentence
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Contains one independent clause (one subject + one verb)
-
Example:
-
I read a book.
-
She plays football.
-
-
-
Compound Sentence
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Contains two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, so, yet)
-
Example:
-
I read a book, and she watched TV.
-
He is tired, but he is still working.
-
-
-
Complex Sentence
-
Contains one independent clause + at least one dependent clause
-
Dependent clauses use subordinating conjunctions (because, although, since, if, when)
-
Example:
-
I stayed home because it was raining.
-
She went to school although she was sick.
-
-
-
Compound-Complex Sentence
-
Contains two or more independent clauses + one or more dependent clauses
-
Example:
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I wanted to go to the park, but it was raining because the weather was bad.
-
-
4.2 CLAUSES AND PHRASES
Clause
A clause has a subject and verb.
-
Independent clause → can stand alone
-
Dependent clause → cannot stand alone
Examples:
-
Independent: She sings beautifully.
-
Dependent: because she practiced daily
Phrase
A phrase is a group of words without a subject-verb pair
-
Examples:
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on the table
-
after the movie
-
very quickly
-
4.3 SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT
The verb must agree with the subject in number (singular/plural) and person (1st, 2nd, 3rd).
Rules & Examples:
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
| Singular subject → singular verb | He plays cricket. |
| Plural subject → plural verb | They play cricket. |
| Collective noun singular/plural depends on meaning | The team is winning. / The team are wearing different jerseys. |
| Indefinite pronouns | Everyone is happy. / Many are waiting. |
Common mistakes:
-
❌ The people is happy.
-
✅ The people are happy.
4.4 ACTIVE AND PASSIVE VOICE
Active Voice
-
Subject performs the action
-
Structure: Subject + Verb + Object
-
Example:
-
The cat (S) chased (V) the mouse (O).
-
Passive Voice
-
Subject receives the action
-
Structure: Object + Auxiliary Verb + Past Participle + (by Subject)
-
Example:
-
The mouse (S) was chased (V) by the cat (Agent).
-
Rules for Conversion
-
Object of active becomes subject in passive
-
Verb changes according to tense
-
Subject of active becomes agent (optional)
Tense Conversion Table (Active → Passive)
| Active | Passive |
|---|---|
| Simple Present | am/is/are + V3 |
| Present Continuous | am/is/are + being + V3 |
| Present Perfect | has/have + been + V3 |
| Simple Past | was/were + V3 |
| Past Continuous | was/were + being + V3 |
| Past Perfect | had + been + V3 |
| Simple Future | will + be + V3 |
| Future Perfect | will + have + been + V3 |
Examples:
-
Active: She writes a letter. → Passive: A letter is written by her.
-
Active: They have completed the work. → Passive: The work has been completed by them.
4.5 DIRECT AND INDIRECT SPEECH
Direct speech: Exact words spoken
-
Example: She said, “I am happy.”
Indirect speech: Reporting someone’s words
-
Example: She said that she was happy.
Rules for Conversion
-
Pronoun Changes
-
“I” → “he/she” (according to context)
-
“We” → “they”
-
Tense Changes (Backshifting)
| Direct | Indirect |
|---|---|
| Present Simple → Past Simple | She says, “I like ice cream.” → She said that she liked ice cream. |
| Present Continuous → Past Continuous | “I am reading.” → He said that he was reading. |
| Present Perfect → Past Perfect | “I have finished my homework.” → He said that he had finished his homework. |
| Past Simple → Past Perfect | “I went to school.” → He said that he had gone to school. |
| Past Continuous → Past Perfect Continuous | “I was studying.” → He said that he had been studying. |
-
Time & Place Changes
-
today → that day
-
tomorrow → the next day / the following day
-
here → there
-
now → then
Examples:
-
Direct: He said, “I will come tomorrow.”
-
Indirect: He said that he would come the next day.
4.6 NEGATIVE SENTENCES AND QUESTIONS
Forming Negatives
-
Add not after auxiliary/modal verbs
-
Examples:
-
She is not happy.
-
They do not play football.
-
I will not go tomorrow.
-
Forming Questions
-
Yes/No Questions: auxiliary/modal + subject + main verb
-
Are you ready?
-
Did she call you?
-
Will they come tomorrow?
-
-
WH Questions: WH-word + auxiliary + subject + main verb
-
What are you doing?
-
Where did he go?
-
Why will she leave?
-
4.7 COMMON MISTAKES IN SENTENCE STRUCTURE
-
Fragment sentences
-
❌ Because I was tired.
-
✅ I stayed home because I was tired.
-
Run-on sentences
-
❌ I went to school I met my friend.
-
✅ I went to school, and I met my friend.
-
Incorrect word order in questions
-
❌ You are coming?
-
✅ Are you coming?
-
Incorrect use of passive voice
-
❌ The work completed by them.
-
✅ The work was completed by them.
4.8 TIPS TO MASTER SENTENCE STRUCTURE
-
Always identify subject + verb + object first.
-
Practice converting active ↔ passive daily.
-
Read English books and articles to see sentence patterns.
-
Memorize common time expressions for indirect speech.
-
Use simple sentences first, then combine for compound/complex structures.
5. GRAMMAR RULES FOR WRITING
Good writing depends on correct grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and vocabulary. Following these rules ensures your writing is clear, professional, and error-free.
5.1 PUNCTUATION MARKS AND THEIR USE
Punctuation marks are symbols that help make writing clear and readable.
1. Full Stop (.)
-
Ends a declarative sentence
-
Examples:
-
I am learning English.
-
She is a teacher.
-
2. Comma (,)
-
Separates items in a list
-
After introductory phrases
-
Between clauses
-
Examples:
-
I bought apples, bananas, and oranges.
-
After the meeting, we went to lunch.
-
I went to school, and she went to college.
-
3. Question Mark (?)
-
Ends a question
-
Examples:
-
What is your name?
-
Are you ready?
-
4. Exclamation Mark (!)
-
Expresses strong emotion
-
Examples:
-
Wow! That’s amazing!
-
Stop!
-
5. Colon (:)
-
Introduces a list, explanation, or quote
-
Examples:
-
I need three things: pen, paper, and ink.
-
He said: “I will help you.”
-
6. Semicolon (;)
-
Joins two related independent clauses
-
Separates items in a complex list
-
Examples:
-
I have a meeting tomorrow; I will prepare today.
-
We visited Paris, France; London, England; and Rome, Italy.
-
7. Apostrophe (’)
-
Shows possession or contraction
-
Examples:
-
John’s book (possession)
-
I’m happy (I am)
-
They’re coming (They are)
-
8. Quotation Marks (“ ”)
-
Enclose spoken words or quotes
-
Examples:
-
She said, “I am learning English.”
-
9. Parentheses ( )
-
Include extra information
-
Example:
-
He finally answered (after thinking for a while).
-
10. Hyphen (-) & Dash (—)
-
Hyphen joins words: well-known, mother-in-law
-
Dash separates phrases: I am going home — I need rest.
5.2 COMMON GRAMMAR RULES IN WRITING
-
Use consistent tense
-
❌ She goes to school and visited the library.
-
✅ She goes to school and visits the library.
-
Avoid double negatives
-
❌ I don’t need no help.
-
✅ I don’t need any help.
-
Use correct articles (a, an, the)
-
❌ I saw an dog.
-
✅ I saw a dog.
-
❌ The moon is a satellite of a moon.
-
✅ The moon is a satellite of Earth.
-
Correct use of prepositions
-
❌ She is good in English.
-
✅ She is good at English.
-
Subject-Verb Agreement
-
❌ They goes to school.
-
✅ They go to school.
-
Parallelism in writing
-
❌ She likes swimming, to run, and reading.
-
✅ She likes swimming, running, and reading.
-
Avoid sentence fragments
-
❌ Because I was tired.
-
✅ I stayed home because I was tired.
-
Avoid run-on sentences
-
❌ I went to the market I bought fruits.
-
✅ I went to the market, and I bought fruits.
5.3 COMMONLY CONFUSED WORDS
| Confused Words | Correct Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Affect / Effect | Affect = verb, Effect = noun | His words affect me. / The medicine had a good effect. |
| Accept / Except | Accept = agree, Except = exclude | I accept your offer. / Everyone came except John. |
| Then / Than | Then = time, Than = comparison | First we went to school, then to home. / She is taller than me. |
| Their / There / They’re | Possession / Place / They are | Their house is big. / There is a park. / They’re happy. |
| Your / You’re | Possession / You are | Your bag is heavy. / You’re welcome. |
5.4 COMMON WRITING ERRORS AND TIPS
1. Capitalization Errors
-
Always capitalize:
-
First word of a sentence
-
Proper nouns (names, places, brands)
-
Titles (Mr., Dr., Prof.)
-
2. Spelling Errors
-
Common mistakes:
-
Recieve → Receive
-
Definately → Definitely
-
Seperate → Separate
-
3. Redundant Words
-
❌ I saw him personally with my own eyes.
-
✅ I saw him.
4. Misplaced Modifiers
-
❌ She almost drove her kids to school every day.
-
✅ She drove her kids to school almost every day.
5. Wordiness
-
❌ Due to the fact that → because
-
❌ At this point in time → now
5.5 TIPS FOR PROFESSIONAL WRITING
-
Use short, clear sentences for readability.
-
Prefer active voice over passive voice.
-
Avoid jargon unless necessary.
-
Use punctuation correctly—it improves meaning.
-
Proofread every document before submitting.
-
Read English newspapers and books to improve style.
-
Use online grammar tools (Grammarly, Hemingway) for checking mistakes.
5.6 COMMON EXAMS WRITING RULES
-
SSC, UPSC, Bank PO, IELTS, TOEFL, and other exams test:
-
Sentence correction
-
Tense accuracy
-
Preposition usage
-
Article usage
-
Punctuation and spelling
-
-
Practice daily by writing essays, letters, and short paragraphs.
6. PRACTICE EXERCISES
Practice is the key to mastering grammar. Here are exercises covering parts of speech, tenses, sentence structure, voice, and speech. Each exercise includes examples and answers for self-assessment.
6.1 PARTS OF SPEECH PRACTICE
Exercise 1: Identify the Part of Speech
Underline the part of speech in each sentence:
-
She runs every morning.
-
Happiness is important in life.
-
I bought a new book.
-
The dog is sleeping under the table.
-
Wow! That was amazing.
Answers:
-
Verb
-
Noun (Abstract)
-
Adjective
-
Preposition
-
Interjection
Exercise 2: Fill in the Correct Word
-
I have _______ apples. (some/any)
-
She is taller _______ me. (than/then)
-
They _______ playing football now. (is/are)
-
He said that he _______ finished his work. (has/had)
-
This is the house _______ I was born. (where/which)
Answers:
-
some
-
than
-
are
-
had
-
where
6.2 TENSES PRACTICE
Exercise 3: Fill in the Blanks with Correct Tense
-
I _______ (go) to school every day.
-
She _______ (write) a letter now.
-
They _______ (complete) the project by tomorrow.
-
He _______ (study) English since morning.
-
We _______ (watch) a movie yesterday.
Answers:
-
go (Present Simple)
-
is writing (Present Continuous)
-
will have completed (Future Perfect)
-
has been studying (Present Perfect Continuous)
-
watched (Past Simple)
Exercise 4: Correct the Mistakes
-
I has finished my homework.
-
She were cooking dinner.
-
They will goes to school tomorrow.
-
He had wrote a letter before I called him.
-
We is playing cricket.
Answers:
-
I have finished my homework.
-
She was cooking dinner.
-
They will go to school tomorrow.
-
He had written a letter before I called him.
-
We are playing cricket.
6.3 SENTENCE STRUCTURE PRACTICE
Exercise 5: Identify Sentence Type
-
I went to the market.
-
She likes ice cream, but she doesn’t like chocolate.
-
I stayed home because it was raining.
-
I wanted to go to the park, but it was raining because the weather was bad.
Answers:
-
Simple
-
Compound
-
Complex
-
Compound-Complex
Exercise 6: Convert Active to Passive
-
She writes a letter.
-
They completed the project.
-
I will call him tomorrow.
-
He is teaching the students.
-
The chef had prepared the meal.
Answers:
-
A letter is written by her.
-
The project was completed by them.
-
He will be called by me tomorrow.
-
The students are being taught by him.
-
The meal had been prepared by the chef.
Exercise 7: Convert Direct to Indirect Speech
-
She said, “I am happy.”
-
He said, “I will help you tomorrow.”
-
They said, “We have finished the work.”
-
She said, “I was reading a book.”
-
He said, “I can speak English.”
Answers:
-
She said that she was happy.
-
He said that he would help me the next day.
-
They said that they had finished the work.
-
She said that she had been reading a book.
-
He said that he could speak English.
6.4 ARTICLES PRACTICE
Exercise 8: Fill in the blanks with a, an, or the
-
I saw _______ elephant in the zoo.
-
She is _______ best student in the class.
-
He bought _______ book yesterday.
-
_______ sun rises in the east.
-
I need _______ hour to complete this work.
Answers:
-
an
-
the
-
a
-
The
-
an
6.5 PREPOSITIONS PRACTICE
Exercise 9: Fill in the correct preposition
-
She is good _______ English. (in/at)
-
The book is _______ the table. (on/at)
-
He arrived _______ the airport on time. (to/at)
-
We are going _______ Mumbai tomorrow. (to/in)
-
I have been waiting _______ 2 hours. (since/for)
Answers:
-
at
-
on
-
at
-
to
-
for
6.6 COMMON GRAMMAR QUIZ (Mixed Practice)
-
Choose the correct sentence:
a) She don’t like tea.
b) She doesn’t like tea. -
Fill in the blank: I _______ (not see) him yesterday.
-
Identify the error: He can sings very well.
-
Convert to passive: They will deliver the package tomorrow.
-
Direct to indirect: He said, “I am going home now.”
Answers:
-
b) She doesn’t like tea.
-
did not see
-
sings → sing
-
The package will be delivered tomorrow.
-
He said that he was going home then.
Tips for Practice
-
Daily exercises: Dedicate 30–60 minutes daily.
-
Mix topics: Tenses, sentence structure, voice, speech.
-
Check answers carefully: Learn from mistakes.
-
Write your own sentences: This reinforces learning.
-
Read English newspapers, books, and articles for exposure.
7. ADVANCED GRAMMAR
Advanced grammar builds on the basics. It helps you write formally, speak professionally, and avoid subtle mistakes.
7.1 CONDITIONAL SENTENCES
Conditional sentences describe if-then situations.
Types of Conditional Sentences
-
Zero Conditional (Fact / Universal Truth)
-
Structure: If + Present Simple, Present Simple
-
Example: If you heat water, it boils.
-
First Conditional (Real Future Possibility)
-
Structure: If + Present Simple, will + base verb
-
Example: If it rains, I will stay home.
-
Second Conditional (Unreal Present / Hypothetical)
-
Structure: If + Past Simple, would + base verb
-
Example: If I were rich, I would travel the world.
-
Third Conditional (Unreal Past)
-
Structure: If + Past Perfect, would have + past participle
-
Example: If I had studied, I would have passed the exam.
-
Mixed Conditional (Past condition affecting present/future)
-
Example: If I had taken the job, I would be living in London now.
7.2 REPORTED QUESTIONS
-
Change direct questions into indirect questions using “if/whether” for yes/no questions.
Examples:
-
Direct: “Are you coming?” → Indirect: He asked if I was coming.
-
Direct: “Where do you live?” → Indirect: He asked where I lived.
Tips:
-
Remove quotation marks.
-
Change pronouns and tense according to context.
7.3 RELATIVE CLAUSES
Relative clauses give more information about a noun.
Relative Pronouns: who, whom, whose, which, that
Examples:
-
The man who is talking is my teacher.
-
This is the book that I bought yesterday.
-
The girl whose bag is red is my friend.
Types:
-
Defining: Essential information
-
The car that is parked outside is mine.
-
-
Non-defining: Extra information (use commas)
-
My brother, who lives in Delhi, is coming tomorrow.
-
7.4 MODALS IN ADVANCED USE
Common Modals: can, could, may, might, shall, should, will, would, must, ought to
Advanced uses:
-
Deduction/Certainty:
-
She must be tired (strong certainty)
-
He might have missed the train (possibility)
-
-
Obligation/Advice:
-
You should take rest.
-
They ought to follow the rules.
-
-
Ability in past:
-
I could have helped him.
-
-
Polite requests/offers:
-
Would you like some tea?
-
7.5 IDIOMS AND PHRASES
Idioms are expressions whose meanings are different from literal meanings.
Examples:
-
Break the ice → To start a conversation
-
Hit the nail on the head → Describe exactly
-
Bite the bullet → Accept something difficult
-
Piece of cake → Very easy task
-
Spill the beans → Reveal a secret
Tips to Use Idioms:
-
Use idioms in context, not randomly.
-
Avoid overusing in formal writing.
7.6 PHRASAL VERBS
Phrasal verbs = verb + preposition/adverb → meaning changes.
Examples:
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| look after | take care of | She looks after her younger brother. |
| put off | postpone | They put off the meeting. |
| get over | recover | He got over the illness. |
| take up | start a hobby | She took up painting last year. |
| run out of | finish supply | We ran out of milk. |
Tips:
-
Memorize common phrasal verbs.
-
Understand context—they often cannot be translated word by word.
7.7 COMMON ADVANCED GRAMMAR MISTAKES
-
Using “less” vs “fewer”
-
❌ I have less books.
-
✅ I have fewer books.
-
Incorrect use of articles with generalizations
-
❌ Lion is dangerous.
-
✅ The lion is dangerous.
-
Dangling participles
-
❌ Walking down the street, the tree looked beautiful.
-
✅ Walking down the street, I saw the tree look beautiful.
-
Confusing between “say” and “tell”
-
❌ She said me the truth.
-
✅ She told me the truth.
-
Incorrect preposition after adjectives
-
❌ He is good in English.
-
✅ He is good at English.
-
Misuse of conditional tenses
-
❌ If I will go, I will see her.
-
✅ If I go, I will see her.
7.8 TIPS TO MASTER ADVANCED GRAMMAR
-
Read advanced English articles, novels, and essays.
-
Maintain a grammar journal for tricky rules.
-
Learn idioms and phrasal verbs in context, not in isolation.
-
Practice complex sentences and conditional structures.
-
Revise modal verbs and relative clauses regularly.
7.9 ADVANCED PRACTICE EXERCISES
Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Modal
-
She _______ be at home; I saw her outside. (must / might)
-
You _______ have completed the assignment by now. (should / can)
-
He _______ help us if he wants. (could / must)
Answers:
-
might
-
should
-
could
Exercise 2: Fill in the Correct Idiom
-
To succeed in life, you need to ______ the ice.
-
Don’t worry; this task is a ______ of cake.
-
He accidentally ______ the beans about the surprise party.
Answers:
-
break
-
piece
-
spilled
Exercise 3: Correct the Mistake
-
She told that she will come.
-
I have less friends than you.
-
Walking in the park, the birds were singing.
Answers:
-
She said that she would come.
-
I have fewer friends than you.
-
Walking in the park, I heard the birds singing.
8. ENGLISH GRAMMAR FOR WRITING SKILLS
Good writing depends on clarity, grammar accuracy, and vocabulary. Proper grammar ensures your writing is understandable and professional.
8.1 PARAGRAPH WRITING RULES
-
Topic Sentence: Introduces the main idea.
-
Example: Reading books is essential for personal growth.
-
-
Supporting Sentences: Provide examples, reasons, and details.
-
Books improve knowledge, imagination, and communication skills.
-
-
Concluding Sentence: Summarizes the idea.
-
Therefore, reading books is a valuable habit.
-
Tips:
-
Keep paragraphs 5–7 sentences.
-
Avoid repetition.
-
Use transition words: however, moreover, therefore, for example.
8.2 ESSAY WRITING
Structure of a Good Essay:
-
Introduction: Present the topic and your opinion.
-
Body Paragraphs: Discuss points with examples (2–3 paragraphs).
-
Conclusion: Summarize and give final opinion.
Example: “Importance of Education”
-
Introduction: Education is the foundation of personal and societal development.
-
Body: It provides knowledge, improves critical thinking, and creates opportunities.
-
Conclusion: Hence, education is essential for everyone to succeed in life.
8.3 LETTER WRITING
Types of Letters:
-
Formal Letters: To authorities, companies, institutions.
-
Informal Letters: To friends or family.
Format of Formal Letters:
-
Sender’s Address
-
Date
-
Receiver’s Address
-
Subject
-
Salutation: Dear Sir/Madam,
-
Body
-
Closing: Yours sincerely / faithfully,
Example: Formal Letter
Subject: Request for Leave
Dear Sir,
I am writing to request leave for three days due to illness. I will resume work after the recovery.
Yours sincerely,
Ravi Kumar
8.4 REPORT WRITING
Structure:
-
Heading/Title
-
Introduction – Purpose of the report
-
Body – Details, findings, data
-
Conclusion/Recommendations
Example:
Title: Annual Sports Report
Introduction: This report highlights the achievements of the school sports team in 2025.
Body: The team participated in football, cricket, and athletics. They won 10 medals.
Conclusion: The school encourages more sports activities in the coming year.
8.5 EMAIL WRITING
Tips:
-
Use a clear subject line.
-
Keep sentences short and precise.
-
Use formal greetings: Dear Mr./Ms.,
-
Use formal closing: Best regards, Sincerely,
Example:
Subject: Meeting Request
Dear Mr. Sharma,
I would like to request a meeting on 5th December to discuss the project. Please confirm your availability.
Best regards,
Rita Singh
8.6 ENGLISH GRAMMAR FOR COMMUNICATION
Good communication requires correct grammar, clarity, and confidence.
Common Communication Skills Tips:
-
Use simple sentences for clarity.
-
Avoid overly complex words; keep it natural.
-
Pay attention to subject-verb agreement.
-
Use polite expressions: Please, Could you, May I…?
-
Practice active listening and respond accurately.
Common Spoken English Grammar Tips:
-
Use Present Continuous for ongoing actions: I am working.
-
Use Modal Verbs for polite requests: Could you help me?
-
Use Future Tense for plans: I will complete the work tomorrow.
-
Avoid double negatives: I don’t need any help.
8.7 COMMON MISTAKES IN WRITTEN & SPOKEN ENGLISH
| Mistake | Correction | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Its / It’s | Its = possession, It’s = it is | Its color is red. / It’s raining. |
| Then / Than | Then = time, Than = comparison | I am taller than my brother. / We went to school, then home. |
| Who / Whom | Who = subject, Whom = object | Who is coming? / To whom did you speak? |
| Lie / Lay | Lie = recline, Lay = put | I lie down. / Lay the book on the table. |
| Bring / Take | Bring = here, Take = there | Bring me the pen. / Take this file to the office. |
8.8 ENGLISH GRAMMAR FOR EXAMS
Key Areas for Competitive Exams:
-
Tenses & Verb Forms – Simple, Continuous, Perfect, Perfect Continuous
-
Sentence Correction – Subject-verb agreement, prepositions, articles
-
Active & Passive Voice – Convert sentences accurately
-
Direct & Indirect Speech – Reporting accurately
-
Idioms & Phrasal Verbs – Common usage
-
Error Spotting & Fill in the Blanks – Grammar knowledge
Tips for Exam Preparation:
-
Practice previous year papers.
-
Focus on frequent error areas.
-
Time yourself while practicing MCQs.
-
Read English newspapers and editorials to enhance grammar intuitively.
-
Maintain a grammar notebook for quick revision.
8.9 ADVANCED WRITING AND COMMUNICATION TIPS
-
Use transition words for coherence: however, therefore, moreover, although.
-
Avoid repetition of words; use synonyms.
-
Use active voice for direct and strong sentences.
-
Keep paragraphs structured: topic sentence, supporting details, conclusion.
-
Revise punctuation and capitalization before submission.
-
Practice formal and informal writing to improve adaptability.
8.10 PRACTICE EXERCISES FOR WRITING & COMMUNICATION
Exercise 1: Correct the Errors
-
He don’t like to play football.
-
Its raining heavily outside.
-
She has wrote the report.
-
I will meet you tomorrow at office.
-
The teacher gave us advices.
Answers:
-
He doesn’t like to play football.
-
It’s raining heavily outside.
-
She has written the report.
-
I will meet you tomorrow at the office.
-
The teacher gave us advice.
Exercise 2: Rewrite in Active Voice
-
The homework was completed by the students.
-
The cake was baked by my mother.
-
The project will be submitted by them tomorrow.
Answers:
-
The students completed the homework.
-
My mother baked the cake.
-
They will submit the project tomorrow.
Exercise 3: Direct to Indirect Speech
-
“I am going to the market,” said Ravi.
-
“We have completed the assignment,” said the students.
-
“I can help you with this,” said my friend.
Answers:
-
Ravi said that he was going to the market.
-
The students said that they had completed the assignment.
-
My friend said that he could help me with this.
Exercise 4: Improve the Sentences
-
I want very much to go to the park.
-
She is very good in English.
-
He didn’t came to the party.
Answers:
-
I really want to go to the park.
-
She is very good at English.
-
He didn’t come to the party.
9. VOCABULARY BUILDING
Vocabulary is the backbone of effective communication. The richer your vocabulary, the more confidently and accurately you can express your thoughts.
9.1 TYPES OF VOCABULARY
1. Active Vocabulary
Words you use regularly in writing and speaking.
2. Passive Vocabulary
Words you understand but don’t use often.
3. Academic Vocabulary
Words used in academic or professional writing.
Examples: analyze, evaluate, interpret, demonstrate.
4. Descriptive Vocabulary
Words used to describe emotions, situations, and ideas.
Examples: frustrated, magnificent, subtle, serene.
9.2 HOW TO BUILD VOCABULARY
-
Read daily — newspapers, blogs, novels.
-
Learn 10 new words every day.
-
Use new words in sentences to activate them.
-
Keep a vocabulary notebook.
-
Practice synonyms & antonyms to expand understanding.
-
Study roots, prefixes, and suffixes.
9.3 ROOT WORDS (VERY IMPORTANT)
Understanding root words makes vocabulary easier.
| Root | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| bio | life | biography, biology |
| geo | earth | geography, geology |
| tele | far | telephone, telescope |
| auto | self | autograph, automatic |
| micro | small | microscope, microchip |
| phon | sound | phonics, telephone |
10. SYNONYMS AND ANTONYMS
Synonyms help avoid repetition. Antonyms help understand contrasting ideas.
10.1 100 COMMON SYNONYMS (Useful for Exams)
| Word | Synonym |
|---|---|
| Happy | joyful, delighted, cheerful |
| Sad | unhappy, gloomy, sorrowful |
| Important | significant, crucial, vital |
| Easy | simple, effortless, uncomplicated |
| Difficult | hard, challenging, tough |
| Fast | quick, rapid, swift |
| Slow | sluggish, gradual |
| Beautiful | pretty, lovely, attractive |
| Smart | intelligent, clever, bright |
| Strong | powerful, robust, firm |
(I can provide a full 1000-word synonyms list later if you want.)
10.2 100 COMMON ANTONYMS
| Word | Antonym |
|---|---|
| Accept | reject |
| Ancient | modern |
| Brave | cowardly |
| Create | destroy |
| Deep | shallow |
| Expand | contract |
| Frequent | rare |
| Generous | selfish |
| Major | minor |
| Natural | artificial |
11. CONFUSING WORDS (VERY IMPORTANT FOR EXAMS)
Many English words look or sound similar but have different meanings.
Below are the most commonly confused pairs with clear examples.
11.1 COMMON CONFUSING PAIRS
Affect vs Effect
-
Affect = influence (verb)
The news affected him deeply. -
Effect = result (noun)
The effect of pollution is dangerous.
Advice vs Advise
-
Advice = noun
-
Advise = verb
Accept vs Except
-
Accept = agree
-
Except = excluding
Loose vs Lose
-
Loose = not tight
-
Lose = misplace
Than vs Then
-
Than = comparison
-
Then = time
Stationary vs Stationery
-
Stationary = not moving
-
Stationery = office supplies (pen, paper)
Complement vs Compliment
-
Complement = complete
-
Compliment = praise
Principal vs Principle
-
Principal = head of school / main
-
Principle = rule or belief
Farther vs Further
-
Farther = distance
-
Further = additional
Who vs Whom
-
Who = subject
-
Whom = object
12. COLLOCATIONS (VERY IMPORTANT FOR NATURAL ENGLISH)
Collocations = words that naturally go together.
Example:
❌ Do a mistake
✅ Make a mistake
12.1 COMMON COLLOCATIONS
Make
-
make a mistake
-
make a decision
-
make an effort
-
make a noise
Do
-
do homework
-
do business
-
do a job
-
do a favour
Take
-
take a break
-
take care
-
take responsibility
-
take a risk
Give
-
give advice
-
give permission
-
give a speech
-
give a discount
Have
-
have breakfast
-
have fun
-
have a bath
-
have a headache
13. ADVANCED VOCABULARY USAGE
Sometimes we need more formal or higher-level vocabulary for professional writing.
13.1 FORMAL vs INFORMAL ENGLISH
| Informal | Formal |
|---|---|
| put off | postpone |
| find out | discover |
| look into | investigate |
| deal with | handle |
| get | obtain |
| check | verify |
| show | demonstrate |
13.2 WORDS FOR PROFESSIONAL WRITING
| Simple Word | Professional Word |
|---|---|
| help | assist |
| need | require |
| try | attempt |
| start | initiate |
| end | conclude |
| use | utilize |
| improve | enhance |
| show | illustrate |
| think | consider |
14. IDIOMS FOR WRITING & SPEAKING
Adding idioms to writing (especially essays) can improve quality.
14.1 COMMON IDIOMS
| Idiom | Meaning |
|---|---|
| In a nutshell | in summary |
| Once in a blue moon | very rare |
| A blessing in disguise | a good thing hidden in a bad situation |
| Beat around the bush | avoid the main topic |
| Call it a day | stop working |
| Under the weather | feeling sick |
| Cost an arm and a leg | very expensive |
| Hit the books | study hard |
| On cloud nine | extremely happy |
15. PHRASAL VERBS (ADVANCED LIST)
Phrasal verbs are essential for natural English.
15.1 ADVANCED PHRASAL VERBS WITH EXAMPLES
Bring up
-
to mention
She brought up an interesting point.
Carry out
-
to do/perform
The team carried out a survey.
Figure out
-
to understand
I cannot figure out the answer.
Look forward to
-
to await happily
I look forward to meeting you.
Cut down on
-
reduce
You should cut down on sugar.
Come across
-
to find unexpectedly
I came across an old diary.
Turn down
-
reject
He turned down the offer.
16. VOCABULARY FOR ESSAY WRITING (VERY USEFUL FOR STUDENTS)
Instead of “very good” → excellent
Instead of “very important” → crucial / essential
Instead of “very bad” → terrible / awful
Instead of “very big” → massive / enormous
Instead of “very small” → tiny / minute
17. PRACTICE EXERCISES (VOCABULARY & USAGE)
Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Word
-
I cannot _______ (accept/except) your offer.
-
He will not _______ (lose/loose) the match.
-
This rule is based on moral _______ (principles/principals).
Answers: accept, lose, principles
Exercise 2: Fill with Synonyms
-
The task was easy → _______
-
She is a smart student → _______
-
The movie was boring → _______
Answers: simple, intelligent, dull
Exercise 3: Correct the Collocation
-
Do a mistake → _______
-
Take a bath → _______ (correct)
-
Make homework → _______
Answers: make a mistake, take a bath, do homework
Exercise 4: Use Idioms in Sentences
-
“Once in a blue moon”
-
“Call it a day”
-
“In a nutshell”
(Your own practice.)
500 English Grammar Practice Questions with Answers
(MCQs + Error Detection + Fill-ups + Sentence Improvement + Cloze + Vocabulary)
SECTION 1 — Parts of Speech (50 Questions)
Q1–Q50
-
Identify the noun: The sun rises in the east.
✔ sun -
Identify the verb: She runs fast.
✔ runs -
Identify the adjective: He is a brave soldier.
✔ brave -
Identify the adverb: She sings beautifully.
✔ beautifully -
Identify the preposition: The cat is under the table.
✔ under -
Identify the conjunction: I will go if you come.
✔ if -
Identify the pronoun: They are playing.
✔ They -
Choose the adjective:
He gave me some money.
✔ some -
Choose the interjection:
“Wow! What a painting!”
✔ Wow -
Identify the verb:
They were happy.
✔ were -
Pick the noun:
Honesty is the best policy.
✔ Honesty -
Pick the pronoun:
This book is mine.
✔ mine -
Identify the preposition:
He walked into the room.
✔ into -
Identify the adverb:
She almost cried.
✔ almost -
Identify the conjunction:
He is poor but honest.
✔ but -
Identify adjective:
The red car is mine.
✔ red -
Identify the noun:
The crowd cheered.
✔ crowd -
Identify the verb:
Please close the door.
✔ close -
Identify adverb:
He seldom goes out.
✔ seldom -
Identify preposition:
The ball rolled towards him.
✔ towards -
Identify pronoun:
Nobody came.
✔ Nobody -
Identify noun:
Gold is expensive.
✔ Gold -
Identify verb:
He will speak tomorrow.
✔ will speak -
Identify adjective:
She is intelligent.
✔ intelligent -
Identify preposition:
He sat beside me.
✔ beside -
Identify conjunction:
He tried hard, yet failed.
✔ yet -
Identify interjection:
Alas! He is dead.
✔ Alas -
Identify verb:
Time flies fast.
✔ flies -
Identify noun:
I heard a noise.
✔ noise -
Identify pronoun:
Everyone agreed.
✔ Everyone -
Identify adverb:
She reads daily.
✔ daily -
Identify adjective:
He is weak.
✔ weak -
Identify conjunction:
Stay here until I return.
✔ until -
Identify preposition:
The dog ran across the road.
✔ across -
Pick the noun:
Childhood is memorable.
✔ Childhood -
Pick the verb:
Please help me.
✔ help -
Pick the adverb:
He nearly fell.
✔ nearly -
Pick the pronoun:
Whose bag is this?
✔ Whose -
Pick the adjective:
She wore a beautiful dress.
✔ beautiful -
Pick the conjunction:
I will call you when I reach.
✔ when -
Identify interjection:
Oh! I missed the bus.
✔ Oh -
Identify preposition:
He jumped over the fence.
✔ over -
Identify verb:
Birds fly.
✔ fly -
Identify noun:
We saw a rainbow.
✔ rainbow -
Identify pronoun:
This is yours.
✔ yours -
Identify adjective:
This is the best option.
✔ best -
Identify adverb:
He almost won.
✔ almost -
Identify conjunction:
He left because it was late.
✔ because -
Identify preposition:
I was born in Kerala.
✔ in -
Identify interjection:
Hurray! We won the match.
✔ Hurray
SECTION 2 — Tenses (Questions 51–100)
Fill in the blanks with the correct tense form
-
She ___ to school every day. (go)
✔ goes -
They ___ late last night. (arrive)
✔ arrived -
I ___ him tomorrow. (meet)
✔ will meet -
She ___ for the exam now. (prepare)
✔ is preparing -
He ___ here since 2010. (live)
✔ has lived -
The train ___ before we reached. (leave)
✔ had left -
They ___ cricket at the moment. (play)
✔ are playing -
We ___ dinner at 8 PM yesterday. (have)
✔ were having -
He ___ many books. (write – present perfect)
✔ has written -
I ___ in Dubai next year. (work)
✔ will work -
She ___ TV when I called her. (watch)
✔ was watching -
They ___ here for two years. (stay – present perfect continuous)
✔ have been staying -
The match ___ at 5 PM. (start – simple future)
✔ will start -
She ___ already ___. (leave – present perfect)
✔ has already left -
I ___ the movie before. (see – present perfect)
✔ have seen -
While I ___, the phone rang. (sleep)
✔ was sleeping -
He ___ his homework yet. (not finish)
✔ has not finished -
By next year, I ___ this course. (complete)
✔ will have completed -
When we arrived, they ___ dinner. (eat)
✔ were eating -
My father ___ to work by car. (go – habitual)
✔ goes -
She ___ English very well. (speak)
✔ speaks -
I ___ him yesterday. (meet)
✔ met -
I ___ to London twice. (be – present perfect)
✔ have been -
He ___ the guitar since childhood. (learn)
✔ has been learning -
They ___ in Kerala in 2005. (live)
✔ lived -
The teacher ___ the lesson now. (explain)
✔ is explaining -
We ___ for the bus for 30 minutes. (wait)
✔ have been waiting -
She ___ her leg last week. (break)
✔ broke -
The train ___ at 6 PM today. (reach – scheduled)
✔ reaches -
She ___ the letter tomorrow. (post)
✔ will post
Choose the correct option
-
He ___ to school every day.
a) go
b) goes
c) going
d) gone
✔ b) goes -
They ___ dinner when I visited.
a) are having
b) were having
c) have
d) had
✔ b) were having -
She ___ already.
a) leaves
b) leave
c) has left
d) is leaving
✔ c) has left -
I ___ the work by Monday.
a) will finish
b) will have finished
c) finished
d) have been finishing
✔ b) will have finished -
They ___ cricket now.
a) play
b) plays
c) are playing
d) were playing
✔ c) are playing -
He ___ here since morning.
a) is
b) was
c) has been
d) will be
✔ c) has been -
When I reached, the show ___.
a) starts
b) has started
c) had started
d) will start
✔ c) had started -
She ___ her work daily.
a) do
b) does
c) did
d) done
✔ b) does -
They ___ to the market yesterday.
a) go
b) goes
c) went
d) going
✔ c) went -
I ___ for two hours.
a) am studying
b) have been studying
c) was studying
d) will be studying
✔ b) have been studying
Error spotting
-
He is knowing the answer.
❌ Wrong → ✔ He knows the answer. -
She is going to home now.
❌ Wrong → ✔ She is going home now. -
He did not wrote the exam.
❌ Wrong → ✔ did not write -
I am understanding the lesson.
❌ Wrong → ✔ I understand -
She is having two brothers.
❌ Wrong → ✔ She has two brothers.
Correct the sentence
-
I am living here since 2010.
✔ I have been living here since 2010. -
He is working here from 5 years.
✔ He has been working here for 5 years. -
She did not went there.
✔ She did not go there. -
They has finished the work.
✔ They have finished the work. -
He is play cricket.
✔ He is playing cricket.
Fill in the blanks with: a / an / the / (no article)
He bought ___ umbrella.
✔ anShe is ___ honest woman.
✔ anHe is ___ engineer.
✔ anI saw ___ eagle in the sky.
✔ anShe adopted ___ cat.
✔ aWe visited ___ Taj Mahal last year.
✔ the___ sun rises in the east.
✔ TheI need ___ pen to write.
✔ aHe wants to become ___ doctor.
✔ aShe met ___ European tourist.
✔ a
___ Mount Everest is the highest peak.
✔ The___ gold is a precious metal.
✔ (no article)___ Nile is a long river.
✔ TheShe is ___ best dancer in the school.
✔ the___ Apple you gave me was sweet.
✔ The
He is eating ___ apple.
✔ anShe has bought ___ new phone.
✔ aThis is ___ most interesting story.
✔ theMy father is ___ teacher.
✔ a___ dogs are loyal animals.
✔ (no article)
He went to ___ school late today.
✔ (no article)I am going to ___ hospital to meet him.
✔ theShe plays ___ guitar.
✔ the (when referring to an instrument)___ moon looks beautiful today.
✔ TheI saw ___ one-eyed man.
✔ a
She is learning to play ___ piano.
✔ theI saw ___ owl on the tree.
✔ anHe gave me ___ useful suggestion.
✔ aShe is studying in ___ university.
✔ a___ Ganga is a holy river.
✔ The
He ate ___ egg for breakfast.
✔ anShe is ___ intelligent girl.
✔ an___ rich should help the poor.
✔ TheWe visited ___ Andaman Islands.
✔ theShe wants to become ___ IAS officer.
✔ an
___ water in this bottle is cold.
✔ TheI am looking for ___ job.
✔ aHe is ___ MLA from our area.
✔ an___ life is unpredictable.
✔ (no article) (general idea)She lives in ___ USA.
✔ the
He went to ___ market.
✔ the / (no article) (both accepted in Indian English)She has ___ unique style.
✔ aWe saw ___ elephant in the zoo.
✔ an___ Pacific Ocean is vast.
✔ TheThis is ___ most difficult question.
✔ the
She doesn’t like ___ milk.
✔ (no article)He wants to become ___ lawyer.
✔ aI met ___ man you were talking about.
✔ theShe bought ___ orange dress.
✔ an___ earth revolves around the sun.
✔ The
SECTION 4 — PREPOSITIONS (Questions 151–200)
Choose the correct preposition: in / on / at / to / for / from / with / by / about / over / under / into etc.
Fill in the blanks
-
He was born ___ 1995.
✔ in -
The meeting is ___ 5 PM.
✔ at -
She will arrive ___ Monday.
✔ on -
The cat jumped ___ the table.
✔ onto / on -
He walked ___ the park.
✔ through -
She is interested ___ music.
✔ in -
He is afraid ___ dogs.
✔ of -
The book is ___ the table.
✔ on -
We sat ___ the shade of a tree.
✔ under -
She lives ___ Mumbai.
✔ in
-
He travelled ___ train.
✔ by -
She is good ___ English.
✔ at -
He is married ___ my cousin.
✔ to -
They returned ___ the market.
✔ from -
He went ___ the office early.
✔ to
-
The plane flew ___ the clouds.
✔ above -
The boy was hiding ___ the bed.
✔ under -
She divided the sweets ___ two children.
✔ between -
He was standing ___ the doorway.
✔ at -
We walked ___ the riverbank.
✔ along
-
He wrote the letter ___ ink.
✔ in -
The school is far ___ here.
✔ from -
She is angry ___ him.
✔ with -
They laughed ___ the joke.
✔ at -
He will return ___ a week.
✔ in
-
Put the books ___ the shelf.
✔ on -
There is a bridge ___ the river.
✔ over -
He is suffering ___ fever.
✔ from -
The teacher explained the lesson ___ the students.
✔ to -
The train stopped ___ the station.
✔ at
-
She jumped ___ the pool.
✔ into -
He was sitting ___ his friends.
✔ among -
They reached ___ time.
✔ on -
He divided the money ___ the team members.
✔ among -
The keys are ___ my pocket.
✔ in
-
I am waiting ___ your reply.
✔ for -
The dog ran ___ the road.
✔ across -
We met ___ the airport.
✔ at -
She is worried ___ her exams.
✔ about -
He wrote the answer ___ mistake.
✔ by
-
He lives ___ the third floor.
✔ on -
I saw him ___ the bus stop.
✔ at -
She stayed ___ home yesterday.
✔ at -
He will go ___ Kerala next week.
✔ to -
He sat ___ me in class.
✔ beside
-
The ball rolled ___ the hill.
✔ down -
He worked here ___ 10 years.
✔ for -
He will be back ___ evening.
✔ by -
They travelled ___ foot.
✔ on -
The hotel is ___ the corner of the street.
✔ at
SECTION 5 — SUBJECT–VERB AGREEMENT (Q201–Q250)
Choose the correct verb form.
-
He ___ my best friend.
✔ is -
They ___ playing football.
✔ are -
The teacher ___ very strict.
✔ is -
Each of the boys ___ present.
✔ is -
One of the students ___ absent.
✔ is -
Neither of the answers ___ correct.
✔ is -
Everyone ___ happy today.
✔ is -
The news ___ shocking.
✔ is -
Mathematics ___ a difficult subject.
✔ is -
Politics ___ interesting.
✔ is
-
The children ___ making noise.
✔ are -
The dog with its puppies ___ sleeping.
✔ is -
My family ___ large.
✔ is (as a unit) -
My family ___ going to different places.
✔ are (individual members) -
Ten kilometers ___ a long distance.
✔ is
-
The number of students ___ increasing.
✔ is -
A number of students ___ absent.
✔ are -
Bread and butter ___ my breakfast.
✔ is (one item) -
Bread and jam ___ on the table.
✔ are -
Either Rohan or Ravi ___ wrong.
✔ is
-
Neither the players nor the coach ___ ready.
✔ is -
Either the boys or the girl ___ coming.
✔ is -
The books on the table ___ mine.
✔ are -
The quality of the apples ___ good.
✔ is -
The cows as well as the bull ___ grazing.
✔ are
-
The pair of shoes ___ new.
✔ is -
The pairs of shoes ___ expensive.
✔ are -
My scissors ___ sharp.
✔ are -
Economics ___ my favorite subject.
✔ is -
The police ___ looking for the thief.
✔ are
-
None of the money ___ missing.
✔ is -
None of the students ___ late.
✔ are -
Much of the work ___ done.
✔ is -
Many students ___ waiting outside.
✔ are -
Some water ___ spilled.
✔ is
-
Some girls ___ dancing.
✔ are -
A lot of people ___ gathered.
✔ are -
A lot of money ___ wasted.
✔ is -
The data ___ correct.
✔ is (accepted in exams) -
The media ___ present.
✔ are
-
My trousers ___ torn.
✔ are -
The jury ___ divided in their opinions.
✔ are -
The audience ___ clapping.
✔ are -
The audience ___ silent.
✔ is -
The team ___ practicing.
✔ is
-
The team members ___ practicing.
✔ are -
Ten rupees ___ not enough.
✔ is -
Thousands of people ___ watching.
✔ are -
The variety of fruits ___ amazing.
✔ is -
The players as well as the captain ___ ready.
✔ are
SECTION 6 — ACTIVE–PASSIVE VOICE (Q251–Q300)
Rewrite in passive or active voice as indicated.
Change to Passive Voice
-
He writes a letter.
✔ A letter is written by him. -
She sings a song.
✔ A song is sung by her. -
They help the poor.
✔ The poor are helped by them. -
He will finish the work.
✔ The work will be finished by him. -
She has done her homework.
✔ Her homework has been done by her.
-
They built a house.
✔ A house was built by them. -
He is reading a book.
✔ A book is being read by him. -
She was cooking food.
✔ Food was being cooked by her. -
They are watching a movie.
✔ A movie is being watched by them. -
She will help him.
✔ He will be helped by her.
-
He had written a letter.
✔ A letter had been written by him. -
They were playing cricket.
✔ Cricket was being played by them. -
He will invite them.
✔ They will be invited by him. -
Someone stole my bag.
✔ My bag was stolen. -
They have completed the project.
✔ The project has been completed by them.
-
She teaches English.
✔ English is taught by her. -
They repaired the car.
✔ The car was repaired by them. -
We will start the meeting.
✔ The meeting will be started by us. -
He told me a secret.
✔ I was told a secret by him. -
She is writing the report.
✔ The report is being written by her.
Change to Active Voice
-
A song was sung by her.
✔ She sang a song. -
The work was done by him.
✔ He did the work. -
The room is cleaned by them.
✔ They clean the room. -
The letter will be posted by her.
✔ She will post the letter. -
The homework has been completed by the students.
✔ The students have completed the homework.
-
The food is being served by the waiter.
✔ The waiter is serving the food. -
The movie was being watched by them.
✔ They were watching the movie. -
The dress will be stitched by the tailor.
✔ The tailor will stitch the dress. -
The prize was given to him by the teacher.
✔ The teacher gave him the prize. -
The door is opened by her.
✔ She opens the door.
-
The car has been washed by him.
✔ He has washed the car. -
The game is played by children.
✔ Children play the game. -
The letter had been posted by me.
✔ I had posted the letter. -
The sweets were distributed by them.
✔ They distributed the sweets. -
The patient is being examined by the doctor.
✔ The doctor is examining the patient.
-
The meeting will be conducted by the manager.
✔ The manager will conduct the meeting. -
The song is sung by Lata.
✔ Lata sings the song. -
The cake was baked by my mother.
✔ My mother baked the cake. -
The report has been submitted by him.
✔ He has submitted the report. -
The car is being repaired by the mechanic.
✔ The mechanic is repairing the car.
-
The thief was caught by the police.
✔ The police caught the thief. -
The work will be checked by the teacher.
✔ The teacher will check the work. -
The guests were welcomed by them.
✔ They welcomed the guests. -
The flowers are being watered by her.
✔ She is watering the flowers. -
The letter is written by me.
✔ I write the letter.
-
The song will be sung by them.
✔ They will sing the song. -
The message has been delivered by the courier boy.
✔ The courier boy has delivered the message. -
The gift was opened by him.
✔ He opened the gift. -
The hall is decorated by the workers.
✔ The workers decorate the hall. -
The baby was being fed by the mother.
✔ The mother was feeding the baby.
SECTION 8 — ACTIVE & PASSIVE VOICE (Q301–Q350)
Identify whether Active or Passive OR convert as required.
Identify the voice:
The teacher praised the student.
✔ ActiveThe work was completed by them.
✔ PassiveThe letter is being written by John.
✔ PassiveThey will start the project tomorrow.
✔ ActiveShe has taken the keys.
✔ Active
Convert to Passive Voice:
They built a new bridge.
✔ A new bridge was built by them.She sings a beautiful song.
✔ A beautiful song is sung by her.He will solve the problem.
✔ The problem will be solved by him.They have cleaned the room.
✔ The room has been cleaned by them.Someone has stolen my bag.
✔ My bag has been stolen.
Identify the voice:
The window was broken.
✔ PassiveThey are watching a movie.
✔ ActiveThe prize was won by her.
✔ PassiveThe chef cooked the meal.
✔ ActiveThe ball was thrown by Sam.
✔ Passive
Convert to Active Voice:
The homework was done by the students.
✔ The students did the homework.The match will be played tomorrow.
✔ They will play the match tomorrow.The book was written by the author.
✔ The author wrote the book.The invitation has been sent by us.
✔ We have sent the invitation.The food is being prepared by the cook.
✔ The cook is preparing the food.
Identify the voice:
Flowers are being plucked.
✔ PassiveShe will be awarded a medal.
✔ PassiveThe cat chased the mouse.
✔ ActiveThe poem was recited by the child.
✔ PassiveThey are making arrangements.
✔ Active
Convert to Passive Voice:
She helps the poor.
✔ The poor are helped by her.He is writing a letter.
✔ A letter is being written by him.They serve dinner at 9 PM.
✔ Dinner is served at 9 PM.Someone called me yesterday.
✔ I was called yesterday.They are repairing the road.
✔ The road is being repaired.
Identify the voice:
A song was sung by them.
✔ PassiveThey have finished the homework.
✔ ActiveThe thief was caught by police.
✔ PassiveThe children played cricket.
✔ ActiveThe letter has been posted.
✔ Passive
Convert to Active Voice:
The exam was conducted by the school.
✔ The school conducted the exam.The movie will be released next week.
✔ They will release the movie next week.The rules have been changed.
✔ They have changed the rules.The plants were watered by him.
✔ He watered the plants.The phone is being charged.
✔ Someone is charging the phone.
Identify the voice:
The glass broke.
✔ ActiveThe work is done.
✔ PassiveThe car hit the pole.
✔ ActiveThe door was locked by the guard.
✔ PassiveThey will announce the results soon.
✔ Active
Convert to Passive Voice:
He painted the wall.
✔ The wall was painted by him.They are organising an event.
✔ An event is being organised.She will clean the room.
✔ The room will be cleaned by her.They have repaired the laptop.
✔ The laptop has been repaired by them.She is cooking pasta.
✔ Pasta is being cooked by her.
SECTION 9 — REPORTED SPEECH (Q351–Q400)
Change from Direct to Indirect Speech
He said, “I am happy.”
✔ He said that he was happy.She said, “I live in Delhi.”
✔ She said that she lived in Delhi.He said, “I will help you.”
✔ He said that he would help me.They said, “We are working.”
✔ They said that they were working.She said, “I have finished the work.”
✔ She said that she had finished the work.
He said, “I can swim.”
✔ He said that he could swim.She said, “I may come tomorrow.”
✔ She said that she might come the next day.He said, “I am reading a book.”
✔ He said that he was reading a book.They said, “We have won the match.”
✔ They said that they had won the match.She said, “I am cooking food.”
✔ She said that she was cooking food.
He said, “I must leave now.”
✔ He said that he had to leave then.She said, “I need help.”
✔ She said that she needed help.He said, “I am learning English.”
✔ He said that he was learning English.She said, “I like music.”
✔ She said that she liked music.He said, “I will call you.”
✔ He said that he would call me.
Interrogative Sentences
He said, “Where do you live?”
✔ He asked where I lived.She said, “Are you happy?”
✔ She asked if I was happy.He said, “Do you know him?”
✔ He asked if I knew him.She said, “Why are you crying?”
✔ She asked why I was crying.He said, “When will you arrive?”
✔ He asked when I would arrive.
Imperative Sentences
He said, “Sit down.”
✔ He told me to sit down.She said, “Please help me.”
✔ She requested me to help her.He said, “Don’t shout.”
✔ He told me not to shout.She said, “Open the door.”
✔ She told me to open the door.He said, “Don’t touch it.”
✔ He warned me not to touch it.
Exclamatory Sentences
He said, “What a beautiful place!”
✔ He exclaimed that it was a beautiful place.She said, “How smart you are!”
✔ She exclaimed that I was very smart.He said, “Alas! He is dead.”
✔ He exclaimed with sorrow that he was dead.She said, “Hurrah! We won!”
✔ She exclaimed with joy that they had won.He said, “What a tragedy!”
✔ He exclaimed that it was a tragedy.
More Conversions
He said, “I am tired.”
✔ He said that he was tired.She said, “I will visit London.”
✔ She said that she would visit London.He said, “I know the truth.”
✔ He said that he knew the truth.She said, “I can do this.”
✔ She said that she could do that.He said, “I am going home.”
✔ He said that he was going home.
She said, “I have a car.”
✔ She said that she had a car.He said, “I am eating now.”
✔ He said that he was eating then.They said, “We like cricket.”
✔ They said that they liked cricket.She said, “I might go there.”
✔ She said that she might go there.He said, “I feel sick.”
✔ He said that he felt sick.
She said, “He is my brother.”
✔ She said that he was her brother.He said, “We are late.”
✔ He said that they were late.She said, “I forgot my phone.”
✔ She said that she had forgotten her phone.He said, “I will not come.”
✔ He said that he would not come.She said, “I love this song.”
✔ She said that she loved that song.
He said, “I need money.”
✔ He said that he needed money.She said, “I study every day.”
✔ She said that she studied every day.He said, “I am waiting for you.”
✔ He said that he was waiting for me.She said, “I found the keys.”
✔ She said that she had found the keys.He said, “I will buy a new car.”
✔ He said that he would buy a new car.
SECTION 10 — ERROR SPOTTING (Q401–Q450)
Find the part containing the error.
Identify the error part (A/B/C/D)
-
He don’t (A) like to play cricket because (B) he gets tired quickly (C) No error (D)
✔ A (don’t → doesn’t) -
One of the boys are (A) missing from the class today (B) without notice (C) No error (D)
✔ A (are → is) -
She is senior than (A) me by (B) two years in age (C) No error (D)
✔ A (than → to) -
Neither of the two boys have (A) done their homework properly (B) this time (C) No error (D)
✔ A (have → has) -
He is very (A) more intelligent (B) than his brother in studies (C) No error (D)
✔ B (very more → much more)
-
I look forward to meet (A) you soon (B) for discussion (C) No error (D)
✔ A (to meet → to meeting) -
The police is (A) searching for the thief in the area (B) today (C) No error (D)
✔ A (is → are) -
He is one of those players who has (A) scored a century in every match (B) recently (C) No error (D)
✔ A (has → have) -
Each of the girls know (A) the answer very well (B) in class (C) No error (D)
✔ A (know → knows) -
The committee have (A) submitted its report yesterday (B) evening (C) No error (D)
✔ A (have → has)
-
Bread and butter are (A) served for breakfast every day (B) here (C) No error (D)
✔ A (are → is) -
He told me that he will (A) come later (B) after lunch (C) No error (D)
✔ A (will → would) -
The furniture were (A) arranged beautifully (B) for the event (C) No error (D)
✔ A (were → was) -
She is one of the best (A) singers who has (B) performed here tonight (C) No error (D)
✔ B (has → have) -
Many a student were (A) present during the seminar (B) today (C) No error (D)
✔ A (were → was)
-
He is too (A) tired that (B) he cannot walk now (C) No error (D)
✔ B (too…that → too…to) -
The news are (A) very disappointing for us (B) today (C) No error (D)
✔ A (are → is) -
I insisted to go (A) there with them (B) yesterday (C) No error (D)
✔ A (to go → on going) -
She prefers tea than (A) coffee in the morning (B) usually (C) No error (D)
✔ A (than → to) -
The teacher asked me that why (A) I was late to class (B) today (C) No error (D)
✔ A (that why → why)
-
Each one of these flowers smell (A) sweet in spring (B) every year (C) No error (D)
✔ A (smell → smells) -
The audience were (A) clapping loudly at the end (B) of the play (C) No error (D)
✔ A (were → was) -
He is good in (A) Mathematics since childhood (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (good in → good at) -
He explained the problem me (A) perfectly yesterday (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (problem me → problem to me) -
Either Rahul or his friends is (A) responsible for the loss (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (is → are)
-
The train have (A) already left the station (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (have → has) -
She asked me to that (A) why I was crying yesterday (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (to that → nothing; remove “to that”) -
My scissors is (A) missing today (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (is → are) -
He is enough strong to lift (A) this box easily (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (enough strong → strong enough) -
She works very hard so that (A) to pass the exam this year (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (so that to → so that she can)
-
He told me to not go (A) there again (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (to not go → not to go) -
This is the student whom (A) won the prize yesterday (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (whom → who) -
The timings of the college has (A) changed recently due to heat (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (has → have) -
He said that he is (A) going home then (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (is → was) -
There is (A) many reasons behind this decision (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (is → are)
-
The prices of vegetables has (A) increased drastically (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (has → have) -
She described me the situation (A) clearly in detail (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (described me → described to me) -
None of them were (A) ready to help (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (were → was) -
I am looking forward to see (A) you again soon (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (to see → to seeing) -
Neither the teachers nor the principal have (A) arrived yet (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (have → has)
-
He is enough tall (A) to play basketball professionally (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (enough tall → tall enough) -
The poet and writer are (A) coming today as chief guest (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (are → is) same person -
She did nothing but cried (A) all day yesterday (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (but cried → but cry) -
He is more elder (A) than me in the family (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (more elder → elder) -
The colour of the walls were (A) changed last week by painters (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (were → was)
-
She said she will (A) meet me tomorrow at noon (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (will → would) -
The wages is (A) high this month (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (is → are) -
He asked that where (A) I lived before (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (that where → where) -
The sceneries of Kashmir is (A) beautiful in summer (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (is → are) -
She has many work to do (A) today before lunch (B) No error (C) D
✔ A (many work → much work)
SECTION 11 — MIXED PRACTICE (Q451–Q500)
(All grammar types mixed: tenses, articles, modals, voice, prepositions, etc.)
-
He ___ a book when I called him.
✔ was reading -
The sun ___ in the east.
✔ rises -
She is taller ___ her sister.
✔ than -
Please give me ___ umbrella kept on the table.
✔ the -
I ___ finish this work today.
✔ must / should
-
If he works hard, he ___ pass the exam.
✔ will -
She has lived here ___ 2010.
✔ since -
The train had left ___ we reached.
✔ before -
He ran ___ than me.
✔ faster -
They ___ to school every day.
✔ go
-
He said that he ___ come.
✔ would -
The dog is hiding ___ the bed.
✔ under -
I prefer tea ___ coffee.
✔ to -
Her parents ___ proud of her.
✔ are -
He ___ a letter yesterday.
✔ wrote
-
A bouquet of flowers ___ on the table.
✔ is -
She ___ swim when she was young.
✔ could -
Let the work ___ finished.
✔ be -
He is angry ___ me.
✔ with -
This is the boy ___ won the prize.
✔ who
-
I met a man ___ had no home.
✔ who -
He ___ come tomorrow.
✔ may / might -
The room was cleaned ___ them.
✔ by -
He divided the sweets ___ two children.
✔ between -
The news ___ shocking.
✔ is
-
They ___ football when it started raining.
✔ were playing -
You ___ not smoke here.
✔ must -
My shoes ___ old.
✔ are -
He will return ___ a week.
✔ in -
She ___ the guitar very well.
✔ plays
-
The children ___ to school now.
✔ are going -
The teacher made him ___ the paragraph.
✔ read -
The room is full ___ people.
✔ of -
He is good ___ English.
✔ at -
They ___ a new car last week.
✔ bought
-
I saw a girl ___ was crying.
✔ who -
He ___ leave early yesterday.
✔ had to -
The homework ___ done.
✔ is -
I will wait ___ you come.
✔ until -
She ___ dancing.
✔ enjoys
-
He ___ to the gym every morning.
✔ goes -
The river ___ into the sea.
✔ flows -
She is interested ___ music.
✔ in -
They ___ watching a movie.
✔ are -
He ___ not attend the meeting.
✔ did
-
There ___ a dog and two cats outside.
✔ are -
She ___ her homework already.
✔ has completed -
The phone ___ ringing.
✔ is -
We ___ obey the rules.
✔ must -
He ___ a story now.
✔ is writing


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