NYC Written Comprehension and Expression 5

Question 1

Which of the following is an example of an indirect or bureaucratic phrase that should be simplified in official writing?

Accepted Answer

In the event that you are unable to attend, please notify your supervisor.

Answer

'In the event that' is an unnecessarily wordy way to say 'if,' and plain language guidelines recommend replacing such phrases in official writing.

Question 2

A paragraph in a report reads: 'Officer Williams responded to the scene. The complainant stated that the window was broken. Glass was observed on the ground.' What element is missing that would improve this report paragraph?

Accepted Answer

A transition showing the sequence of events

Answer

Adding transitions (such as 'Upon arrival' or 'Subsequently') would clarify the order and relationship of events in the report.

Question 3

Choose the sentence that uses subject-verb agreement correctly.

Accepted Answer

Each of the officers submits a daily report.

Answer

'Each' is a singular indefinite pronoun and always takes a singular verb, so 'submits' is correct.

Question 4

A memo instructs: 'All staff must acknowledge receipt of this policy by signing and returning the attached form within five business days of receipt.' An employee receives the memo on a Tuesday. What is the latest day they may return the form?

Accepted Answer

The following Tuesday

Answer

Five business days from Tuesday (not counting Tuesday itself as the first day): Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Monday, Tuesday — the following Tuesday.

Question 5

Which sentence contains a misplaced modifier?

Accepted Answer

The supervisor only approved three of the ten requests.

Answer

'Only' should be placed immediately before what it modifies — 'only three' — but here it ambiguously modifies 'approved,' suggesting the supervisor did nothing else.

NYC - Civil Service Exam Practice Test

NYC - Civil Service Exam Practice Test

NYC Written Comprehension and Expression 5