New Jersey Civil Service Exam Written Expression and Communication 4

Question 1

A public notice reads: 'Applications are due no later than August 15th, 2026.' What formatting element is incorrectly used?

Accepted Answer

The ordinal 'th' in '15th'

Answer

When writing dates in formal documents, ordinal suffixes (st, nd, rd, th) are unnecessary — write 'August 15, 2026.'

Question 2

Which sentence best demonstrates active voice in a civil service context?

Accepted Answer

The supervisor approved the budget revision.

Answer

'The supervisor approved the budget revision' places the doer (supervisor) as the subject performing the action, which is active voice.

Question 3

What is the purpose of an executive summary in a government report?

Accepted Answer

To give a brief overview of the report's key points and conclusions.

Answer

An executive summary briefly presents the main findings and conclusions so decision-makers can quickly grasp the report's purpose.

Question 4

Which sentence contains a subject-verb agreement error?

Accepted Answer

The number of violations have increased this year.

Answer

'The number' is a singular subject and requires the singular verb 'has,' not 'have.'

Question 5

In a business letter, where should the date be placed?

Accepted Answer

Above the inside address, near the top

Answer

In standard letter format, the date appears at the top, above the recipient's inside address.

New Jersey Civil Service Exam Practice Test