HSPT High School Placement Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: If all squares are rectangles, which statement is true?

A square is a rectangle (Correct answer)
No squares are rectangles
All rectangles are squares
Rectangles cannot be squares

Correct answer: A square is a rectangle

Because every square belongs to the rectangle group, a square is a rectangle.

Question 2: What is the order of operations for: 3 + 4 × 2 - 1?

14
12
13
10 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 10

Following PEMDAS: multiplication first: 4 × 2 = 8. Then left to right: 3 + 8 - 1 = 10.

Question 3: If 3x + 7 = 22, what is the value of x?

15
3
5 (Correct answer)
7

Correct answer: 5

Subtract 7 from both sides: 3x = 15. Divide both sides by 3: x = 5.

Question 4: If a triangle has angles of 45° and 90°, what is the third angle?

180°
90°
135°
45° (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 45°

The sum of angles in a triangle is 180°. So the third angle = 180° - 45° - 90° = 45°. This is a 45-45-90 right triangle.

Question 5: What is the main purpose of a topic sentence in a paragraph?

To transition to the next paragraph
To state the main idea of the paragraph (Correct answer)
To provide supporting details
To conclude the argument

Correct answer: To state the main idea of the paragraph

The topic sentence introduces the central idea that the rest of the paragraph will develop and support with details, examples, and evidence.

Question 6: Identify the preposition in: 'The cat jumped over the fence.'

fence
jumped
over (Correct answer)
cat

Correct answer: over

'Over' is a preposition showing the spatial relationship between the jumping action and the fence.

Question 7: What is the area of a circle with a radius of 7? (Use π ≈ 3.14)

153.86 (Correct answer)
21.98
49
43.96

Correct answer: 153.86

Area of a circle = πr² = 3.14 × 7² = 3.14 × 49 = 153.86 square units.

Question 8: Is there a penalty for guessing on the HSPT?

Only in the math section
No, there is no penalty for wrong answers (Correct answer)
Only in the verbal section
Yes, wrong answers deduct points

Correct answer: No, there is no penalty for wrong answers

The HSPT does not penalize for wrong answers. Your score is based only on the number of correct answers, so you should answer every question.

Question 9: Solve for x: 2(x + 3) = 14

8
4 (Correct answer)
7
5.5

Correct answer: 4

Distribute: 2x + 6 = 14. Subtract 6: 2x = 8. Divide by 2: x = 4.

Question 10: What does the prefix 'anti-' mean?

After
Against or opposite (Correct answer)
Together with
Before

Correct answer: Against or opposite

The prefix 'anti-' comes from Greek and means against or opposite, as in antibiotic (against bacteria), antithesis (opposite thesis), or antisocial (against social norms).

Question 11: Choose the sentence with correct adjective use.

This is the more best book I own.
This is the most best book I own.
This is the better book of the three.
This is the best book of the three. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: This is the best book of the three.

"Best" is the superlative used when comparing three or more items.

Question 12: Which word is a synonym for 'diligent'?

Careless
Hardworking (Correct answer)
Reckless
Lazy

Correct answer: Hardworking

Diligent means having or showing care and conscientiousness in one's work, which is the same as being hardworking.

Question 13: Exotic pet trade is a significant concern for enviornmentalists and animal rights advocates around the world. Which of the following words in the sentence is misspelled?

advocates
rights
enviornmentalists (Correct answer)
significant

Correct answer: enviornmentalists

The question asks to identify the misspelled word in the sentence. Upon reviewing the words, "enviornmentalists" is incorrectly spelled. The correct spelling for those who advocate for the protection of the environment is "environmentalists," with an 'e' after the 'n' and before the 'm'.

Question 14: What is 35% of 200?

7000
105
35
70 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 70

35% of 200 = 0.35 × 200 = 70. You can also think of it as 35 × 2 = 70.

Question 15: Which number comes next: 100, 81, 64, 49, ___?

40
36 (Correct answer)
42
38

Correct answer: 36

These are squares of 10, 9, 8, 7, so the next is 6² = 36.

Question 16: Because the ladder was rusted and _, everyone urged Danny to resist his natural _ that encouraged him to recklessly climb that ladder anyway.

safe...temerity
precarious...audacity (Correct answer)
secure...wisdom
dangerous...courage

Correct answer: precarious...audacity

The sentence describes a rusted ladder and Danny's tendency to "recklessly climb that ladder anyway," despite being urged to resist. The first blank needs a word that describes the dangerous state of the ladder; "precarious" means unstable or dangerously likely to fall. The second blank needs a word for a natural tendency that leads to reckless behavior; "audacity" means a willingness to take bold risks, often implying a lack of caution, which aligns with "recklessly climb."

Question 17: An author who writes 'Studies show that exercise improves mental health' is using which type of evidence?

Anecdotal evidence
Expert testimony
Emotional appeal
Empirical or research-based evidence (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Empirical or research-based evidence

Referring to studies indicates research-based or empirical evidence, which relies on systematic observation, measurement, and data collection.

Question 18: The soiled is to filthy as the wet is to ____________.

damp
typhoon
drenched (Correct answer)
moist

Correct answer: drenched

This analogy demonstrates a relationship of increasing intensity or degree. "Filthy" is a more extreme form of "soiled" (dirty). Following this pattern, we need a word that represents a more extreme degree of "wet." "Drenched" means completely saturated with liquid, indicating a much higher degree of wetness than "damp" or "moist."

Question 19: Which word is a synonym for 'zeal'?

Caution
Boredom
Laziness
Enthusiasm (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Enthusiasm

Zeal means great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective.

Question 20: A car travels 180 miles in 3 hours. What is its average speed?

30 mph
60 mph (Correct answer)
45 mph
90 mph

Correct answer: 60 mph

Average speed = distance ÷ time = 180 miles ÷ 3 hours = 60 miles per hour.

Question 21: What is the author's purpose if a passage primarily tries to convince the reader of something?

To entertain
To describe
To inform
To persuade (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To persuade

When an author's primary goal is to convince the reader to accept a particular viewpoint or take action, the purpose is to persuade.

Question 22: What does the word 'desolate' mean?

Deserted and lonely (Correct answer)
Joyful and lively
Crowded and busy
Bright and cheerful

Correct answer: Deserted and lonely

Desolate describes a place that is empty of people and lacking in comfort or hope.

Question 23: When an author uses the word 'however' in a sentence, it typically signals:

Agreement with the previous point
A list of examples
A contrast or contradiction to what was previously stated (Correct answer)
The end of the argument

Correct answer: A contrast or contradiction to what was previously stated

'However' is a transitional word that signals a shift or contrast, indicating that the upcoming information differs from or contradicts what was just stated.

Question 24: Novice most likely means

Veteran
Expert
Beginner (Correct answer)
Naught

Correct answer: Beginner

The word "novice" refers to a person who is new to a field or activity and lacks experience. Among the given choices, "beginner" is a direct synonym that perfectly captures this meaning. Options like "veteran" and "expert" are antonyms, while "naught" means nothing.

Question 25: What does it mean to 'infer' information from a passage?

To copy information directly from the text
To guess randomly
To draw a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning rather than explicit statements (Correct answer)
To summarize the main points

Correct answer: To draw a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning rather than explicit statements

Inferring means using clues, evidence, and reasoning from the text combined with prior knowledge to reach a conclusion that is not directly stated.

Question 26: When autumn arrives in the Southwest, the chamisa plant blooms, and this previously _____________ shrub seems to be everywhere.

Dazzling
Omnipresent
Flowering
Inconspicuous (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Inconspicuous

The sentence describes the chamisa plant blooming and then "seems to be everywhere." This suggests that before blooming, the plant was not widely noticed or prominent. "Inconspicuous" means not clearly visible or attracting attention, which fits the idea that the plant was less noticeable until it bloomed and became widespread.

Question 27: What is the primary difference between 'summarizing' and 'paraphrasing'?

Paraphrasing requires direct quotes
Summarizing condenses the main ideas; paraphrasing restates specific text in your own words at similar length (Correct answer)
Summarizing is longer than paraphrasing
They are the same thing

Correct answer: Summarizing condenses the main ideas; paraphrasing restates specific text in your own words at similar length

Summarizing captures the essential points in condensed form, while paraphrasing restates a specific passage in your own words at approximately the same length.

Question 28: What does the word 'frugal' mean?

Wasteful and extravagant
Thrifty and economical (Correct answer)
Generous and giving
Reckless with money

Correct answer: Thrifty and economical

Frugal means being careful about spending money and avoiding waste.

Question 29: All dogs are animals. All animals need water. Therefore:

Some dogs do not need water
Animals are dogs
All dogs need water (Correct answer)
All water needs dogs

Correct answer: All dogs need water

This is a syllogism: If all dogs are animals and all animals need water, then all dogs need water. The conclusion follows logically from the premises.

Question 30: Which underlined word is misspelled in: "She recieved an award for excellence."?

recieved (Correct answer)
for
excellence
award

Correct answer: recieved

The correct spelling is "received," following the i-before-e rule except after c.

Question 31: Which word is a synonym for 'obstinate'?

Agreeable
Stubborn (Correct answer)
Gentle
Flexible

Correct answer: Stubborn

Obstinate means stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action.

Question 32: The retina is to eye as the letter is to ____________.

word (Correct answer)
mail
communicative
envelope

Correct answer: word

This analogy describes a part-to-whole relationship where the part is fundamental to the function or existence of the whole. The "retina" is a crucial component of the "eye," essential for vision. Similarly, a "letter" is a fundamental component of a "word," essential for forming meaning and language.

Question 33: What number is 3/4 of 2/3 of 120?

90
60 (Correct answer)
80
40

Correct answer: 60

First find 2/3 of 120 = 80. Then find 3/4 of 80 = 60. Alternatively, (3/4) × (2/3) × 120 = (6/12) × 120 = 60.

Question 34: What is the median of the set {3, 7, 9, 12, 15}?

7
12
9.2
9 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 9

The median is the middle value when numbers are arranged in order. In this set of 5 numbers, the third number (9) is the median.

Question 35: The historian observed irony in the fact that developments considered _ at the time are now regarded as _.

Inspirational . . Impetuous
Bizarre . . Irrational
Intuitive . . Uncertain
Improbable . . Inevitable (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Improbable . . Inevitable

The sentence highlights an "irony," which suggests a contradiction or a surprising contrast between past and present perceptions. If developments were considered "improbable" (unlikely to happen) at one time, it would be ironic if they are now regarded as "inevitable" (certain to happen). This pair creates a strong and logical ironic contrast, showing a complete shift in how these developments are viewed over time.

Question 36: What grade level is the HSPT designed for?

6th graders
College freshmen
8th graders applying to Catholic high schools (Correct answer)
10th graders

Correct answer: 8th graders applying to Catholic high schools

The HSPT is designed for 8th graders applying for admission to Catholic and private high schools. It helps schools make admissions and placement decisions.

Question 37: The Poppy is to flora as the tabletop is to __________.

furniture
surface (Correct answer)
pedastal
stool

Correct answer: surface

This analogy establishes a "type of" relationship. A "Poppy" is a specific example of "flora" (plant life). Similarly, a "tabletop" is a specific example of a "surface." While a tabletop is part of "furniture," "surface" describes its fundamental nature and function more directly in this hierarchical relationship.

Question 38: In the sequence 'Dog, Cat, Bird, Fish,' which word does NOT belong?

Dog
Fish
Bird
All belong (Correct answer)

Correct answer: All belong

All four are animals, so they all logically belong to the same category. There is no clear outlier based on the given information.

Question 39: Which sentence is a complete sentence, not a fragment?

Running through the rainy field.
After the long and difficult test.
The dog barked at the mail carrier. (Correct answer)
Because she was tired and hungry.

Correct answer: The dog barked at the mail carrier.

It has a subject "dog" and a verb "barked" and expresses a complete thought.

Question 40: The wedding was ______________ affair in sharp contrast to the previous night's revelry.

a dignified (Correct answer)
a jubilant
an ingenious
a chaotic

Correct answer: a dignified

The sentence indicates a "sharp contrast" between the wedding and the "previous night's revelry," which implies lively, noisy, and perhaps unrestrained celebration. To create a sharp contrast, the wedding must have been the opposite of revelry. "A dignified" affair means formal, serious, and worthy of respect, which directly contrasts with the boisterous nature of revelry.

Question 41: Which sentence uses the correct form of the homophone?

Thier going to the park.
They're going to the park. (Correct answer)
Their going to the park.
There going to the park.

Correct answer: They're going to the park.

'They're' is the contraction of 'they are,' which is the correct form in this sentence. 'Their' is possessive, and 'there' refers to a place.

Question 42: What does the word 'candid' mean?

Sneaky and secretive
Dishonest and misleading
Shy and reserved
Frank and straightforward (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Frank and straightforward

Candid means truthful and straightforward, not hiding one's thoughts or feelings.

Question 43: Antonyms: Choose the word that means the OPPOSITE of VICTORY.

Triumph
Reward
Battle
Defeat (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Defeat

Defeat is a loss, the opposite of victory.

Question 44: Otis was the inventor of more patents than his brother Eric. Adam had twice the number of patents as Jackson. Adam and Otis both had the same number of patents. If the first two statements are correct, the third is as follows:

Unimportant
False
Unknown (Correct answer)
True

Correct answer: Unknown

Let's analyze the statements: 1) Otis > Eric, and 2) Adam = 2 * Jackson. The third statement claims Adam = Otis. The first two statements establish relationships between Otis and Eric, and Adam and Jackson, respectively. They provide no information that links Adam's patent count directly to Otis's, making the truthfulness of the third statement 'Unknown' based solely on the given premises.

Question 45: What is the correct plural form of 'criterion'?

Criterias
Criteria (Correct answer)
Criterions
Criteriums

Correct answer: Criteria

'Criteria' is the correct plural of 'criterion.' This follows the Greek-origin rule where '-on' changes to '-a' in the plural form.

Question 46: Logic: All squares have four sides. This shape has three sides. Therefore the shape is ___.

Not a square (Correct answer)
A square
A rectangle
Larger than a square

Correct answer: Not a square

Since squares need four sides and this shape has three, it cannot be a square.

Question 47: Convert 3/5 to a percentage.

65%
35%
60% (Correct answer)
53%

Correct answer: 60%

3/5 = 0.6 = 60%. Divide the numerator by the denominator and multiply by 100.

Question 48: What type of sentence is: 'Please close the door'?

Exclamatory
Interrogative
Imperative (Correct answer)
Declarative

Correct answer: Imperative

An imperative sentence gives a command or makes a request. The subject 'you' is implied.

Question 49: Which sentence uses commas correctly in a series?

We bought apples, oranges and, pears.
We bought apples, oranges, and pears. (Correct answer)
We bought, apples oranges and pears.
We bought apples oranges, and pears.

Correct answer: We bought apples, oranges, and pears.

Commas correctly separate each item in the list, including before "and."

Question 50: Choose the word that best completes the analogy: Book is to Library as Painting is to ___.

Museum (Correct answer)
Color
Artist
Canvas

Correct answer: Museum

A book is housed in a library, just as a painting is housed in a museum. Both represent the relationship between an item and its collection location.

Question 51: What is an antonym of 'prudent'?

Wise
Careful
Reckless (Correct answer)
Thoughtful

Correct answer: Reckless

Prudent means acting with care and thought for the future, so its antonym is 'reckless,' meaning without thinking of the consequences.

Question 52: What does the word 'ubiquitous' mean?

Rare and unusual
Present everywhere at the same time (Correct answer)
Extremely beautiful
Dangerously unstable

Correct answer: Present everywhere at the same time

Ubiquitous means existing or being everywhere at the same time; omnipresent. Smartphones are a commonly cited example of something ubiquitous.

Question 53: Which word is an antonym of 'verbose'?

Lengthy
Talkative
Concise (Correct answer)
Wordy

Correct answer: Concise

Verbose means using more words than necessary, so its antonym is 'concise,' meaning brief and to the point.

Question 54: What is the best strategy for the quantitative comparisons on the HSPT?

Guess randomly to save time
Skip all comparison questions
Always pick the largest number
Simplify both quantities to compare them, using estimation when exact calculation is not necessary (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Simplify both quantities to compare them, using estimation when exact calculation is not necessary

Simplifying and estimating often reveals the relationship between quantities faster than precise calculation, saving valuable time on the test.

Question 55: Which word is an adverb in the sentence: 'She quickly finished her homework'?

homework
quickly (Correct answer)
finished
She

Correct answer: quickly

'Quickly' is an adverb modifying the verb 'finished,' telling how she finished her homework.

Question 56: If you flip a fair coin three times, what is the probability of getting at least one head?

1/2
3/4
7/8 (Correct answer)
1

Correct answer: 7/8

P(at least one head) = 1 - P(no heads) = 1 - (1/2)³ = 1 - 1/8 = 7/8.

Question 57: If a shirt originally costs $40 and is on sale for 25% off, what is the sale price?

$25
$15
$10
$30 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $30

25% of $40 = $10 discount. Sale price = $40 - $10 = $30. Alternatively, $40 × 0.75 = $30.

Question 58: Everyone in the club pays dues. Pat does not pay dues. What can you conclude?

Pat owes money
Pat is the leader
Pat is in the club
Pat is not in the club (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Pat is not in the club

Since all club members pay dues and Pat does not, Pat is not in the club.

Question 59: What is the purpose of a conclusion paragraph?

To summarize main points and reinforce the author's message or argument (Correct answer)
To ask the reader questions
To introduce new information
To list all sources used

Correct answer: To summarize main points and reinforce the author's message or argument

A conclusion ties together the main points discussed, reinforces the central argument or message, and gives the reader a sense of closure.

Question 60: Isaac was extremely _____________ unlike his brother who sought solitude.

Amenable
Terse
Gregarious (Correct answer)
Avaricious

Correct answer: Gregarious

The sentence states that Isaac was "unlike his brother who sought solitude," meaning his brother preferred to be alone. To be unlike someone who seeks solitude, Isaac must be someone who enjoys company and social interaction. "Gregarious" perfectly describes someone who is fond of company and sociable, making it the correct choice to complete the contrast.

Question 61: The word Espionage is to discreet as the word kindling is to

Majestic
Grotesque
Novelty
Ominous (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Ominous

This is an analogy question where the relationship is about a key characteristic or implication. Espionage is characterized by being discreet or secretive. Similarly, kindling, by its nature, is used to start a fire, and the uncontrolled spread of fire can often be perceived as ominous, suggesting a threat or danger. Therefore, kindling can imply or foreshadow something ominous.

Question 62: Which HSPT section has the most questions?

Mathematics (64) (Correct answer)
Verbal Skills (60)
Quantitative Skills (52)
Language (60)

Correct answer: Mathematics (64)

The Mathematics section has 64 questions, making it the largest section of the HSPT.

Question 63: Which word does NOT belong: happy, joyful, cheerful, angry?

cheerful
angry (Correct answer)
happy
joyful

Correct answer: angry

Angry is a negative emotion, while the others mean glad.

Question 64: The infringement is to violation as the expedition is to ____________.

backpacking
excursion (Correct answer)
ambling
daredevil

Correct answer: excursion

This analogy establishes a relationship of synonymity. An "infringement" is a "violation" of a law or agreement; they are synonyms. Similarly, an "expedition" is a journey or voyage undertaken for a specific purpose, and an "excursion" is a short journey or trip, often for pleasure. "Excursion" is the closest synonym that maintains the same relationship.

Question 65: A store marks up items by 40%. If an item costs $25 wholesale, what is the retail price?

$30
$35 (Correct answer)
$65
$40

Correct answer: $35

40% of $25 = $10 markup. Retail price = $25 + $10 = $35. Alternatively, $25 × 1.40 = $35.

Question 66: Verbal Classification: Which word does NOT belong with the others?

Cheerful
Happy
Gloomy (Correct answer)
Joyful

Correct answer: Gloomy

Gloomy means sad, while the others all mean glad.

Question 67: What is the difference between a fact and an opinion in a reading passage?

Facts are longer sentences
Facts and opinions are the same thing
Opinions are always wrong
Facts can be proven true or false; opinions express personal beliefs or judgments (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Facts can be proven true or false; opinions express personal beliefs or judgments

Facts are verifiable statements that can be proven true or false through evidence. Opinions reflect personal views, beliefs, or interpretations that cannot be objectively proven.

Question 68: What is the meaning of the word 'ephemeral'?

Very expensive
Lasting forever
Extremely large
Lasting for a very short time (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Lasting for a very short time

Ephemeral means lasting for a very short time, fleeting or transitory. Cherry blossoms are often described as ephemeral because they bloom briefly.

Question 69: Deter most likely means

Stop (Correct answer)
Sway
Assist
Grind

Correct answer: Stop

To "deter" means to discourage someone from doing something or to prevent something from happening. Among the choices, "stop" is the most direct and accurate synonym for deter. While other options like "grind" or "sway" have different meanings, "stop" directly reflects the action of hindering or preventing.

Question 70: What is the greatest common factor of 24 and 36?

4
6
12 (Correct answer)
8

Correct answer: 12

Factors of 24: 1,2,3,4,6,8,12,24. Factors of 36: 1,2,3,4,6,9,12,18,36. The greatest common factor is 12.

Question 71: Secede is the opposite of

Bail
Recall
Merge (Correct answer)
Accessible

Correct answer: Merge

To 'secede' means to withdraw formally from an alliance, federation, or association. The opposite of withdrawing or separating is to join or combine. 'Merge' means to combine or cause to combine to form a single entity, making it the direct antonym of secede.

Question 72: Which word is spelled INCORRECTLY?

Accomodate (Correct answer)
Definitely
Necessary
Occurrence

Correct answer: Accomodate

The correct spelling is 'accommodate' with two c's and two m's. This is one of the most commonly misspelled words in English.

Question 73: What is 'context clues' in reading?

Footnotes at the bottom of the page
The author's biography
The table of contents
Words and phrases surrounding an unknown word that help determine its meaning (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Words and phrases surrounding an unknown word that help determine its meaning

Context clues are hints found in the surrounding text — including synonyms, antonyms, examples, and definitions — that help readers figure out the meaning of unfamiliar words.

Question 74: What is the value of 2³ × 3²?

36
18
54
72 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 72

2³ = 8 and 3² = 9, so 2³ × 3² = 8 × 9 = 72.

Question 75: The underdog is to audacious as the conspirator is to

Passive
Altruistic
Illegible
Elusive (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Elusive

This is an analogy question based on characteristics. An 'underdog' is typically expected to lose but might be 'audacious' (bold, daring) in their attempt to win. A 'conspirator' is someone involved in a secret plan, often to do something unlawful. Their nature or actions are typically 'elusive' (difficult to find, catch, or achieve) as they operate in secrecy to avoid detection.

Question 76: If Statement 1: 'No cats are fish' and Statement 2: 'All goldfish are fish,' which conclusion is valid?

Some goldfish are cats
No goldfish are cats (Correct answer)
Some cats are goldfish
All fish are goldfish

Correct answer: No goldfish are cats

Since no cats are fish and all goldfish are fish, goldfish must be in the 'fish' category which excludes all cats. Therefore, no goldfish are cats.

Question 77: What is a compound sentence?

A sentence with one independent clause
A sentence with complicated vocabulary
A sentence with a dependent clause
A sentence with two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction or semicolon (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A sentence with two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction or semicolon

A compound sentence combines two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts) using coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS) or semicolons.

Question 78: What is the volume of a rectangular prism with length 5, width 3, and height 4?

30
24
12
60 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 60

Volume of a rectangular prism = length × width × height = 5 × 3 × 4 = 60 cubic units.

Question 79: What is an antonym of 'ephemeral'?

Brief
Temporary
Permanent (Correct answer)
Fleeting

Correct answer: Permanent

Ephemeral means lasting for only a short time, so its antonym is 'permanent.'

Question 80: Which sentence correctly uses quotation marks?

She said, Let's go now.
She said "Let's go now".
She said, "Let's go now." (Correct answer)
She said "Let's go now."

Correct answer: She said, "Let's go now."

A comma precedes the quote and the period sits inside the closing quotation marks.

Question 81: When a passage uses chronological order, events are organized by:

Category
Importance
Location
Time sequence — the order in which events occurred (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Time sequence — the order in which events occurred

Chronological order arranges events in the order they happened in time, from earliest to latest, which is especially common in narratives and historical texts.

Question 82: Coarse most likely means

Harsh (Correct answer)
Polite
Direction
Soft

Correct answer: Harsh

The word "coarse" describes something that is rough in texture or crude in manner. Among the given options, "harsh" is the most fitting synonym as it implies a lack of refinement, gentleness, or smoothness, aligning with the meaning of coarse. Therefore, "harsh" accurately captures the essence of what coarse most likely means.

Question 83: What does the word 'apprehensive' mean?

Amused and entertained
Anxious or worried about the future (Correct answer)
Confident and assured
Excited and eager

Correct answer: Anxious or worried about the future

Apprehensive means feeling anxiety or worry about a possible future event.

Question 84: Simplify: 4/6 + 1/3

1 (Correct answer)
5/9
5/6
2/3

Correct answer: 1

Find a common denominator: 4/6 + 2/6 = 6/6 = 1. Note that 1/3 = 2/6.

Question 85: If it rains, the ground gets wet. The ground is wet. Can we conclude it rained?

Yes, definitely
No, because other things could make the ground wet (Correct answer)
Only if it is cloudy
Only on weekdays

Correct answer: No, because other things could make the ground wet

This is the logical fallacy of affirming the consequent. Other things (sprinklers, spills) could also make the ground wet, so we cannot conclude it rained.

Question 86: Which pair of words are SYNONYMS?

Brave and Cowardly
Dark and Light
Fast and Slow
Happy and Elated (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Happy and Elated

Happy and elated both mean feeling great pleasure or joy. Elated is a more intense form of happiness, but they share the same core meaning.

Question 87: Which of the following words does not belong with the others?

Gasoline (Correct answer)
Ignitable
Inflammable
Combustible

Correct answer: Gasoline

This question asks to identify the word that doesn't belong. 'Combustible,' 'ignitable,' and 'inflammable' are all adjectives describing something capable of catching fire and burning. 'Gasoline,' on the other hand, is a noun that refers to a specific type of combustible liquid fuel. It is an example of something that is combustible, not a descriptor itself.

Question 88: If the ratio of boys to girls in a class is 3:5 and there are 24 students total, how many girls are there?

15 (Correct answer)
9
18
12

Correct answer: 15

Total parts = 3 + 5 = 8. Each part = 24/8 = 3. Girls = 5 × 3 = 15.

Question 89: Choose the correct word: 'The principal/principle reason for the delay was weather.'

principle
neither is correct
either is correct
principal (Correct answer)

Correct answer: principal

'Principal' means main or chief when used as an adjective. 'Principle' is a noun meaning a fundamental truth or rule. Here, the adjective form is needed.

Question 90: Which sentence contains a grammatical error?

The dog chased its tail.
She and I went to the store.
Each of the students have completed the assignment. (Correct answer)
The team has finished their project.

Correct answer: Each of the students have completed the assignment.

'Each' is singular and requires a singular verb. The correct form is 'Each of the students has completed the assignment.'

Question 91: An author's 'tone' in a passage refers to:

The number of paragraphs
The volume at which you should read it
The length of sentences used
The author's attitude toward the subject expressed through word choice and style (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The author's attitude toward the subject expressed through word choice and style

Tone reflects the author's attitude or feelings about the subject matter, conveyed through word choice, sentence structure, and stylistic decisions.

Question 92: Which word means the OPPOSITE of 'benevolent'?

Kind
Malevolent (Correct answer)
Charitable
Generous

Correct answer: Malevolent

Benevolent means well-meaning and kindly, while malevolent means having ill will or wishing harm to others — they are direct antonyms.

Question 93: Which fraction is equivalent to 0.625?

1/2
7/8
3/4
5/8 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 5/8

0.625 = 625/1000 = 5/8 when simplified. You can verify: 5 ÷ 8 = 0.625.

Question 94: A train leaves at 2:15 PM and arrives at 5:45 PM. How long is the trip?

3 hours 45 minutes
3 hours 30 minutes (Correct answer)
3 hours 15 minutes
3 hours

Correct answer: 3 hours 30 minutes

From 2:15 to 5:15 is 3 hours. From 5:15 to 5:45 is 30 more minutes. Total: 3 hours 30 minutes.

Question 95: Which word is a synonym for 'benevolent'?

Stingy
Cruel
Kind (Correct answer)
Timid

Correct answer: Kind

Benevolent means well-meaning and kindly, so 'kind' is the closest synonym.

Question 96: An index is to a book as an elegy is to

An Artifact
A Funeral (Correct answer)
An Equinox
An Audition

Correct answer: A Funeral

This is an analogy question. An index helps you find information within a book, often at the end. Similarly, an elegy is a poem or song of serious reflection, typically a lament for the dead, often recited or performed at a funeral. Both serve a specific purpose related to their respective main item or event.

Question 97: Ellen was feeling lethargic from a bad night's sleep, but she still made it to work on time. Which of the following is the definition of the word "lethargic" in the previous sentence?

rushed
angry
tired (Correct answer)
confused

Correct answer: tired

The sentence states that Ellen was feeling "lethargic" due to "a bad night's sleep." A common consequence of poor sleep is feeling tired, sluggish, or lacking energy. Therefore, "tired" is the most accurate definition of "lethargic" in this context, as it describes a state of lacking energy and enthusiasm.

Question 98: A barometer is to pressure as chronometer is to _______________.

time (Correct answer)
clock
tool
watch

Correct answer: time

This is an analogy question based on function. A barometer is an instrument specifically designed to measure atmospheric pressure. Following this relationship, a chronometer is an instrument specifically designed to measure time with high precision. Therefore, "time" completes the analogy.

Question 99: What does the word 'gregarious' mean?

Fierce and aggressive
Careful and methodical
Fond of company; sociable (Correct answer)
Shy and introverted

Correct answer: Fond of company; sociable

Gregarious describes a person who enjoys being in crowds and socializing with others.

Question 100: On the HSPT, how many total questions are there across all sections?

200
150
350
298 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 298

The HSPT has 298 questions across five subtests: Verbal Skills (60), Quantitative Skills (52), Reading (62), Mathematics (64), and Language (60).

Question 101: What is the square root of 144?

11
14
13
12 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 12

12 × 12 = 144, so √144 = 12.

Question 102: Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

The dog; was hungry it ate its dinner quickly.
The dog was hungry; it ate its dinner quickly. (Correct answer)
The dog was; hungry it ate its dinner quickly.
The dog was hungry; and it ate its dinner quickly.

Correct answer: The dog was hungry; it ate its dinner quickly.

A semicolon joins two closely related independent clauses without a conjunction. Both parts can stand alone as sentences.

Question 103: Day is to night as summer is to ___?

spring
warm
season
winter (Correct answer)

Correct answer: winter

The pairs are opposites, and the opposite of summer is winter.

Question 104: Synonyms: Choose the word that means most nearly the same as ENORMOUS.

Tiny
Narrow
Huge (Correct answer)
Average

Correct answer: Huge

Enormous means very large, the same as huge.

Question 105: What is the slope of a line passing through points (2, 3) and (6, 11)?

8
2 (Correct answer)
4
1

Correct answer: 2

Slope = (y₂ - y₁)/(x₂ - x₁) = (11 - 3)/(6 - 2) = 8/4 = 2.

Question 106: What is the next number in the sequence: 2, 6, 18, 54, ___?

108
72
162 (Correct answer)
216

Correct answer: 162

Each number is multiplied by 3 to get the next number: 2×3=6, 6×3=18, 18×3=54, 54×3=162.

Question 107: Which sentence has a pronoun-antecedent agreement error?

Every player must bring their gear. (Correct answer)
The players brought their gear.
She brought her gear.
Every player must bring his gear.

Correct answer: Every player must bring their gear.

"Every player" is singular, so the plural pronoun "their" disagrees with it in formal usage.

Question 108: Analogies: Pen is to Write as Scissors is to ___.

Sharp
Metal
Paper
Cut (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Cut

A pen is used to write, just as scissors are used to cut.

Question 109: Antonyms: Choose the word that means the OPPOSITE of ARRIVE.

Depart (Correct answer)
Reach
Stay
Enter

Correct answer: Depart

Depart means to leave, the opposite of arrive.

Question 110: A nocturnal is to diurnal as a cloying is to ____________.

unsentimental (Correct answer)
annoying
romantic
foolish

Correct answer: unsentimental

This analogy establishes a relationship of antonyms. "Nocturnal" (active at night) is the opposite of "diurnal" (active during the day). Following this pattern, we need an antonym for "cloying." "Cloying" describes something excessively sweet, rich, or sentimental to the point of being sickening, and "unsentimental" means not displaying or influenced by sentimental feelings, making it the direct opposite.

Question 111: Complete the analogy: Pen is to Writer as Brush is to ___.

Artist (Correct answer)
Canvas
Color
Painting

Correct answer: Artist

A pen is the tool used by a writer, just as a brush is the tool used by an artist. The analogy relates a tool to its user.

Question 112: In a series of numbers where each term is the sum of the two preceding terms, if the first two terms are 1 and 1, what is the sixth term?

8 (Correct answer)
13
5
21

Correct answer: 8

This is the Fibonacci sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8. The sixth term is 8 (3+5=8).

Question 113: Which word correctly completes: "The new rule will ____ how we study."?

affect (Correct answer)
effict
afect
effect

Correct answer: affect

"Affect" is the verb meaning to influence, which fits this sentence.

Question 114: Which of the following nouns has the proper plural form?

phenomenons
shelves (Correct answer)
deers
mans

Correct answer: shelves

This question tests knowledge of proper plural forms of nouns. "Deers" should be "deer," "mans" should be "men," and "phenomenons" should be "phenomena." "Shelves" is the correct plural form of "shelf," following the rule of changing 'f' to 'ves' for certain nouns ending in 'f' or 'fe'.

Question 115: What does the word 'lucid' mean?

Confusing and unclear
Dark and shadowy
Complex and difficult
Clear and easy to understand (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Clear and easy to understand

Lucid means expressed clearly and easy to understand, or having a clear mind.

Question 116: Only _ stress is harmful to the immune system; short-term stress may be _ or even beneficial in some cases.

Unexpected . . Salutary
Unequivocal . . Persistent
Acute . . Predictable
Continuous . . Inconsequential (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Continuous . . Inconsequential

The sentence presents a contrast between two types of stress: one that is harmful and another (short-term stress) that can be "inconsequential or even beneficial." To fit this contrast, the first blank must describe a type of stress that is harmful, which "continuous" stress (long-lasting, chronic) accurately represents. For the second blank, "inconsequential" (having no significant effect) logically describes how short-term stress might be viewed, especially when contrasted with harmful stress and also having the potential to be beneficial.

Question 117: A is taller than B. C is shorter than B. D is taller than A. Who is the shortest?

C (Correct answer)
B
A
D

Correct answer: C

From tallest to shortest: D > A > B > C. C is shorter than B, who is shorter than A, who is shorter than D.

Question 118: Glove is to hand as sock is to ___?

foot (Correct answer)
leg
toe
shoe

Correct answer: foot

A glove covers a hand, and a sock covers a foot.

Question 119: How much time do students get to complete the HSPT?

1 hour
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes (Correct answer)
3 hours
2 hours

Correct answer: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

The HSPT takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete, with each section having its own time limit.

Question 120: If a rectangle has a length of 12 and a width of 8, what is its perimeter?

20
96
40 (Correct answer)
32

Correct answer: 40

Perimeter of a rectangle = 2(length + width) = 2(12 + 8) = 2(20) = 40.

Question 121: Which of the following words does not belong with the others?

Bottleneck
Burden (Correct answer)
Brick
Benchmark

Correct answer: Burden

This question asks to identify the word that does not belong with the others. "Benchmark," "brick," and "bottleneck" all refer to tangible objects or points of reference, often with a structural or physical connotation (a standard, a building material, a constricted point). "Burden," however, refers to a heavy load or responsibility, which is an abstract concept rather than a physical object or structural element. Thus, "burden" is the outlier.

Question 122: Find the missing number: 5, 10, 20, 40, ___?

70
80 (Correct answer)
50
60

Correct answer: 80

Each term doubles, so 40 × 2 = 80.

Question 123: Synonyms: Choose the word that means most nearly the same as PERMIT.

Forbid
Ignore
Refuse
Allow (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Allow

Permit means to let happen, the same as allow.

Question 124: What is an antonym of 'serene'?

Tranquil
Turbulent (Correct answer)
Calm
Peaceful

Correct answer: Turbulent

Serene means calm and peaceful, so its antonym is 'turbulent,' meaning chaotic or disturbed.

Question 125: What is the probability of rolling a 3 or a 5 on a standard six-sided die?

1/2
1/6
1/3 (Correct answer)
2/3

Correct answer: 1/3

There are 2 favorable outcomes (3 and 5) out of 6 possible outcomes: 2/6 = 1/3.

Question 126: What is a 'theme' in a literary passage?

The plot summary
The setting of the story
The list of characters
The underlying message or central idea about life that the author conveys (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The underlying message or central idea about life that the author conveys

A theme is the deeper meaning or universal truth about human experience that the author communicates through the story's events, characters, and conflicts.

HSPT High School Placement Test

The HSPT High School Placement Test evaluates students seeking Catholic high school admission across verbal skills, quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, mathematics, language skills, and logic and reasoning.

298

Questions

150 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
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These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy

Sources & references

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