New Jersey Civil Service Exam Written Expression and Grammar 2

Question 1

Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly?

Accepted Answer

If I were the supervisor, I would change the policy.

Answer

The subjunctive mood requires 'were' (not 'was') in hypothetical or contrary-to-fact if-clauses.

Question 2

Select the sentence with correct parallel structure.

Accepted Answer

The report was clear, concise, and accurate.

Answer

Parallel structure requires matching grammatical forms; all three adjectives (clear, concise, accurate) must be in the same form.

Question 3

Which word correctly completes the sentence: 'The committee will _____ the policy next month'?

Accepted Answer

alter

Answer

'Alter' means to change or modify; 'altar' is a religious table or platform.

Question 4

Choose the sentence with the correct use of a colon.

Accepted Answer

The meeting covered three topics: budget, staffing, and scheduling.

Answer

A colon is used after a complete independent clause to introduce a list or explanation.

Question 5

Which option correctly combines these two sentences: 'The employee was late. The employee missed the briefing.'

Accepted Answer

The employee was late; therefore, they missed the briefing.

Answer

'Therefore' with a semicolon correctly shows a cause-and-effect relationship between two independent clauses.

New Jersey Civil Service Exam Practice Test