PET Writing Skills & Composition 5

Question 1

Which of the following best describes a 'topic sentence' in a paragraph?

Accepted Answer

The first sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph.

Answer

A topic sentence opens a paragraph and states its main point, guiding everything that follows.

Question 2

A student writes: 'I have went to the market yesterday.' What is wrong with this sentence?

Accepted Answer

The verb tense is incorrect — 'went' should be used with simple past, not 'have'.

Answer

'Have went' is incorrect; use either 'went' (simple past) or 'have gone' (present perfect).

Question 3

In PET Writing Part 3 (story), which element most helps create tension?

Accepted Answer

Short, punchy sentences and time pressure for the character.

Answer

Short sentences speed up the pace, and placing the character under pressure creates suspense.

Question 4

Which sentence uses the correct punctuation for a list?

Accepted Answer

I need eggs, milk, bread, and butter.

Answer

Items in a list are separated by commas, with 'and' before the final item.

Question 5

You receive a note asking: 'Can you explain why you were absent and suggest how you will catch up?' Which response best addresses both questions?

Accepted Answer

I had a bad cold last week. I plan to borrow notes from a classmate and finish the assignment by Friday.

Answer

This answer clearly states the reason and gives a concrete, realistic plan to catch up.

(PET) Preliminary English Test Practice Test