Written Expression and Communication Flashcards
7 cards from real New Jersey Civil Service Exam practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Written Expression and Communication flashcards as text
A public notice reads: 'Applications are due no later than August 15th, 2026.' What formatting element is incorrectly used?
Answer: The ordinal 'th' in '15th'
When writing dates in formal documents, ordinal suffixes (st, nd, rd, th) are unnecessary — write 'August 15, 2026.'
Which sentence best demonstrates active voice in a civil service context?
Answer: The supervisor approved the budget revision.
'The supervisor approved the budget revision' places the doer (supervisor) as the subject performing the action, which is active voice.
What is the purpose of an executive summary in a government report?
Answer: To give a brief overview of the report's key points and conclusions.
An executive summary briefly presents the main findings and conclusions so decision-makers can quickly grasp the report's purpose.
Which sentence contains a subject-verb agreement error?
Answer: The number of violations have increased this year.
'The number' is a singular subject and requires the singular verb 'has,' not 'have.'
In a business letter, where should the date be placed?
Answer: Above the inside address, near the top
In standard letter format, the date appears at the top, above the recipient's inside address.
Which word correctly completes this sentence: 'The officer _____ to respond to the complaint within 30 days.'
Answer: is required
'The officer' is singular, so the singular verb 'is required' correctly agrees with the subject.
What does 'jargon' mean in the context of professional writing?
Answer: Specialized terminology that may confuse general readers
Jargon is field-specific terminology that insiders understand but may confuse the general public; it should be avoided or explained in public-facing documents.