Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) — Questions and Answers

Question 1: If 5 more than twice a number equals 21, what is the number?

7
6
8 (Correct answer)
9

Correct answer: 8

Set up 2n + 5 = 21, subtract 5: 2n = 16, divide by 2: n = 8.

Question 2: To support the idea stated in the passage, which ending statement should be inserted following sentence 14?

State officials and school districts should make an effort to ensure that students are exposed to the study of world religions in their social studies courses.
Students deserve an opportunity to learn about all world religions, not just the major world religions.
Although there is hesitation to teach about religions in school, the benefits of students becoming familiar with the main ideas and tenets of world religions are essential in today’s world. (Correct answer)
It is important to ensure that students understand that many aspects of history, literature, and current events are related to ideas found in major world religions.

Correct answer: Although there is hesitation to teach about religions in school, the benefits of students becoming familiar with the main ideas and tenets of world religions are essential in today’s world.

The correct answer serves as an effective concluding statement because it synthesizes the main points of the passage. It acknowledges the "hesitation to teach about religions" (a recurring theme) while strongly reiterating the "essential benefits" of such education in the modern world. This statement provides a balanced summary and a strong final argument, reinforcing the passage's overall message.

Question 3: What comes next in the pattern: A, D, G, J, ___?

M (Correct answer)
L
N
K

Correct answer: M

Each letter skips two positions: A(1), D(4), G(7), J(10), M(13).

Question 4: If a + b = 12 and a − b = 4, what is the value of a?

8 (Correct answer)
4
6
10

Correct answer: 8

Add the two equations: 2a = 16, so a = 8.

Question 5: A recipe calls for 3 cups of flour to make 24 cookies. How many cups are needed to make 40 cookies?

5.5
6
5 (Correct answer)
4.5

Correct answer: 5

3/24 = x/40; cross-multiply: 24x = 120; x = 5 cups.

Question 6: Which correction should be made to the sentence?

Insert a comma after built.
Delete the comma after Rome.
Delete the comma after World.
Insert a comma after Italy. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Insert a comma after Italy.

Without the original sentence, the most probable reason for inserting a comma after "Italy" is to correctly punctuate a non-essential phrase or clause. If "Italy" is part of a geographical location that is further specified (e.g., "Rome, Italy, a city known for...") or if a non-restrictive clause follows it, a comma would be necessary to set off that additional information. This ensures proper grammatical separation of sentence elements.

Question 7: Choose the correctly punctuated sentence.

My brother who lives in Texas, is visiting.
My brother who lives, in Texas is visiting.
My brother, who lives in Texas is visiting.
My brother, who lives in Texas, is visiting. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: My brother, who lives in Texas, is visiting.

A nonessential clause is set off by commas on both sides.

Question 8: Choose the correct word: "The committee will announce ___ decision tomorrow."

it's
their
its'
its (Correct answer)

Correct answer: its

"Its" is the possessive pronoun, and a committee is a singular collective noun.

Question 9: What is the value of y in terms of x if 14x - 7y - 4 = 45?

7 + 7x
7 - 2x
7 - 7x
2x - 7 (Correct answer)
2x + 7

Correct answer: 2x - 7

14x - 7y - 4 = 45 Subtract 14x and add 4 on both sides 14x - 7y - 4 - 14x + 4 = 45 - 14x + 4 -7y = 45 - 14x + 4 -7y = 49 - 14x Divide by -7 into both sides -7y/(-7) = (49 - 14x)/(-7) y = (14x - 49)/7 y = (14x/7) - (49/7) y = 2x - 7

Question 10: Which sentence correctly uses an apostrophe for a plural possessive?

The students projects' were displayed.
The students's projects were displayed.
The student's projects were displayed for everyone.
The students' projects were displayed. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The students' projects were displayed.

For a plural noun ending in -s, the possessive apostrophe goes after the s.

Question 11: A writer wants to transition between a paragraph about the causes of the American Revolution and one about its effects. Which transition sentence is MOST effective?

The effects are also important to understand.
Now we will discuss the effects of the American Revolution.
These tensions and grievances ultimately ignited a conflict whose consequences would reshape the nation. (Correct answer)
The American Revolution happened a long time ago.

Correct answer: These tensions and grievances ultimately ignited a conflict whose consequences would reshape the nation.

Option B explicitly links the previous paragraph's content (tensions/grievances) to the upcoming paragraph's topic (consequences/effects), creating a smooth, logical transition.

Question 12: Maria is taller than Jake. Jake is taller than Sam. Who is the shortest?

Sam (Correct answer)
Jake
Maria
Cannot be determined

Correct answer: Sam

Maria > Jake > Sam, so Sam is the shortest in this chain.

Question 13: The longest side of a right triangle is called the:

Hypotenuse (Correct answer)
Median
Leg
Base

Correct answer: Hypotenuse

The hypotenuse is always the side opposite the right angle and is the longest side.

Question 14: Determine whether the underlined portion of the following statement is correct or needs to be revised.

your strength against your opponent.
yours against your opponent.
your opponent's strength against one's own.
your strength against your opponent's. (Correct answer)
your strength with your opponent.

Correct answer: your strength against your opponent's.

The correct answer, "your strength against your opponent's," maintains parallelism by comparing "your strength" to "your opponent's [strength]." The possessive apostrophe 's' correctly indicates that the comparison is to the opponent's strength, not the opponent themselves. This structure ensures a clear and grammatically parallel comparison between two comparable entities.

Question 15: Which sentence would logically come FIRST in a paragraph about photosynthesis?

Chlorophyll in leaves absorbs sunlight energy.
As a result, oxygen is released into the air.
This glucose is then used by the plant for energy.
Plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose.

The topic sentence introducing the process of photosynthesis should come first to establish the subject.

Question 16: The phrase 'on the other hand' in a passage signals:

A definition
A contrasting viewpoint (Correct answer)
A chronological sequence
A supporting example

Correct answer: A contrasting viewpoint

'On the other hand' is a transitional phrase used to introduce a contrasting or opposing idea.

Question 17: Rose and Kate are planning a weekend get-together somewhere between their 420-mile distances. Throughout her trip, Rose maintains a speed of 80 mph. What speed did Kate drive to reach their meeting site if they both left home at 10 a.m. and met at 1 p.m.?

60 mph (Correct answer)
75 mph
65 mph
70 mph

Correct answer: 60 mph

Kate drove 180 miles at 60 mph to reach the meeting place where Rose arrived after driving 240 miles at 80 mph.

Question 18: Choose the sentence with correct verb tense consistency.

She opens the door and walked inside.
She opened the door and walked inside. (Correct answer)
She open the door and walking inside.
She opened the door and walks inside.

Correct answer: She opened the door and walked inside.

Both verbs are in the past tense, keeping the sentence consistent.

Question 19: Solve for y: y/4 + 3 = 10.

28 (Correct answer)
52
7
13

Correct answer: 28

Subtracting 3 gives y/4 = 7, so y = 28.

Question 20: Which sentence is free of misplaced modifiers?

A stray dog walking to school was seen by Maria.
Maria saw, walking to school, a stray dog.
Walking to school, Maria saw a stray dog. (Correct answer)
Walking to school, a stray dog was seen by Maria.

Correct answer: Walking to school, Maria saw a stray dog.

The modifier "walking to school" correctly describes Maria, the subject right after it.

Question 21: The word 'ambiguous' in a reading passage most nearly means:

Highly emotional
Open to more than one interpretation (Correct answer)
Completely false
Extremely clear

Correct answer: Open to more than one interpretation

'Ambiguous' describes something that can be understood in more than one way.

Question 22: A football squad had a budget of $20,000 for supplies. New balls cost $14,000 for the team. Each pair of new sports shoes costs $120. Which of the following inequities represents the team's ability to buy new shoes?

120𝑥 + 14,000 ≤ 20,000 (Correct answer)
20𝑥 + 14,000 ≥ 20,000
14,000𝑥 +120 ≤ 20,000
14,000𝑥 + 12,0 ≥ 20,000

Correct answer: 120𝑥 + 14,000 ≤ 20,000

The total budget is $20,000. The team already spent $14,000 on new balls. Each pair of new sports shoes costs $120, and 'x' represents the number of pairs of shoes. The total cost of shoes (120x) plus the cost of balls ($14,000) must be less than or equal to the total budget ($20,000), hence 120x + 14,000 ≤ 20,000.

Question 23: A passage about Thomas Edison says he 'failed 1,000 times before succeeding.' The author most likely included this to:

Illustrate that persistence leads to success (Correct answer)
Prove that failure is permanent
Show Edison was incompetent
Explain how lightbulbs work

Correct answer: Illustrate that persistence leads to success

Highlighting Edison's many failures before success emphasizes the value of perseverance in achieving goals.

Question 24: Which transition best fits? "She practiced every day; ___, she won the competition."

consequently (Correct answer)
meanwhile
however
nevertheless

Correct answer: consequently

"Consequently" signals that winning was the result of daily practice.

Question 25: Simplify: (2x^3)(3x^4).

6x^7 (Correct answer)
5x^7
6x^12
5x^12

Correct answer: 6x^7

Multiply coefficients (6) and add exponents (3+4=7) to get 6x^7.

Question 26: Which edit BEST improves the sentence: 'Being that it was raining, we cancelled our picnic.'?

It being raining, we cancelled our picnic.
Being it was raining, we cancelled our picnic.
Since it was raining, we cancelled our picnic. (Correct answer)
Because of the fact that it was raining, we cancelled our picnic.

Correct answer: Since it was raining, we cancelled our picnic.

'Being that' is a non-standard phrase; replacing it with 'Since' creates a grammatically correct and concise subordinate clause.

Question 27: Choose the best place to add this sentence: "This habit improved his grades dramatically." "(1) Tom started studying earlier. (2) He reviewed notes each night. (3) He also asked his teachers questions."

It does not belong anywhere
Before sentence 1
After sentence 3, as a concluding statement (Correct answer)
Between sentences 1 and 2

Correct answer: After sentence 3, as a concluding statement

The sentence summarizes the result of all the habits, so it fits best at the end.

Question 28: Which sentence uses the semicolon correctly?

She loved reading; and often visited the library.
The dog barked; at the mail carrier.
He was tired; however, he finished his homework. (Correct answer)
I went to the store; buying milk and eggs.

Correct answer: He was tired; however, he finished his homework.

A semicolon correctly joins two independent clauses, especially when followed by a conjunctive adverb like 'however.'

Question 29: Which sentence contains a misplaced modifier?

The teacher explained the lesson clearly to the students.
Jogging around the block, my shoes got wet. (Correct answer)
Covered in mud, the hikers returned to camp.
Running through the park, the dog chased the squirrel.

Correct answer: Jogging around the block, my shoes got wet.

In option D, 'jogging around the block' modifies 'my shoes,' which cannot jog — the modifier is misplaced.

Question 30: Which transition best shows contrast? "The plan looked perfect on paper; ___, it failed in practice."

similarly
however (Correct answer)
moreover
therefore

Correct answer: however

"However" signals a contrast between the perfect plan and its failure.

Question 31: To correct sentence 3, which edit is required?

change are not allowed to had not been allowed
change needs to will need
change was to is (Correct answer)
change should understand to should have understood

Correct answer: change was to is

Without the original sentence 3, the most common reason to change "was" to "is" is to correct a verb tense inconsistency. If the sentence describes a current state, fact, or ongoing situation, the present tense "is" would be appropriate, whereas "was" would imply a past condition that is no longer true. This change ensures the verb tense aligns with the intended meaning and the surrounding text.

Question 32: Which expression represents 'five less than three times a number n'?

3(n − 5)
5n − 3
5 − 3n
3n − 5 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 3n − 5

'Three times a number' is 3n, and 'five less than' means subtract 5, giving 3n − 5.

Question 33: A class has 30 students. 18 are girls. What percentage are boys?

40% (Correct answer)
35%
45%
60%

Correct answer: 40%

Boys = 30 − 18 = 12; percentage = 12/30 × 100 = 40%.

Question 34: What is the equivalent expression of (7x – 5 ) – (3x – 2 )?

10 - 7
10x - 3
4x - 3 (Correct answer)
4x -7

Correct answer: 4x - 3

This response represents the correct equivalent expression. (6x - 5 ) - (3x - 2) = 7x - 3z - 5 - ( - 2) = 4x - 3

Question 35: A sentence reads: 'Despite these challenges, the expedition succeeded.' This sentence most likely:

Follows sentences describing obstacles the expedition faced (Correct answer)
Introduces a new, unrelated topic
Precedes the description of the challenges
Opens the paragraph by introducing challenges

Correct answer: Follows sentences describing obstacles the expedition faced

'Despite these challenges' is a backward reference, so it must follow sentences that already described the challenges.

Question 36: If f(x) = 2x + 5, what is f(4)?

11
13 (Correct answer)
14
9

Correct answer: 13

Substitute x = 4: f(4) = 2(4) + 5 = 8 + 5 = 13.

Question 37: In a sequence 2, 5, 10, 17, 26, what is the next number?

37 (Correct answer)
35
40
33

Correct answer: 37

The differences are 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 — increasing odd numbers — so add 11 to 26 to get 37.

Question 38: 'Moreover' signals that the next sentence will:

Provide a definition
Add additional supporting information (Correct answer)
Introduce a new topic
Contradict the previous point

Correct answer: Add additional supporting information

'Moreover' is an additive transition used to introduce additional evidence or support.

Question 39: A passage's tone can best be described as 'melancholy' if the author:

Uses humor throughout
Expresses sadness and loss (Correct answer)
Describes joyful celebrations
Presents scientific data neutrally

Correct answer: Expresses sadness and loss

A melancholy tone conveys sadness, sorrow, or a sense of loss throughout the writing.

Question 40: A square has an area of 81 square units. What is the length of one side?

9 (Correct answer)
8
40.5
18

Correct answer: 9

The side is the square root of 81, which is 9.

Question 41: Determine whether the underlined portion of the following statement is correct or needs to be revised.

have enhanced the sports-watching experiences for fans.
enhance the sports-watching experience.
enhances the sports-watching experience. (Correct answer)
enhance the experience.
enhances the sports-watching experience for fans.

Correct answer: enhances the sports-watching experience.

The correct answer, "enhances the sports-watching experience," uses the singular verb "enhances," which correctly agrees with a singular subject (e.g., "Technology"). It is also more concise than option A, as "for fans" is often implied when discussing a "sports-watching experience." This revision ensures proper subject-verb agreement and avoids unnecessary words.

Question 42: Which sentence has a grammar error that should be corrected?

sentence 4
sentence 3
sentence 2 (Correct answer)
sentence 1

Correct answer: sentence 2

Without the specific content of Sentence 2, it's impossible to pinpoint the exact grammar error. However, common grammar errors include subject-verb agreement issues, pronoun agreement errors, incorrect verb tense, misplaced modifiers, or improper punctuation (like a comma splice or run-on sentence). Identifying such an error in Sentence 2 would necessitate its revision to ensure grammatical correctness.

Question 43: A number n satisfies 2n + 7 < 19. What is the largest integer value of n?

6
7
4
5 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 5

2n < 12 means n < 6, so the largest integer is 5.

Question 44: Which sentence is best suited to be a topic sentence for a paragraph about climate change?

Climate change poses serious threats to ecosystems worldwide. (Correct answer)
Polar bears rely on sea ice for hunting.
Arctic ice melted at record rates in 2023.
Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas.

Correct answer: Climate change poses serious threats to ecosystems worldwide.

A topic sentence states the main idea broadly; the others are specific supporting details.

Question 45: Which number does NOT belong: 4, 9, 16, 25, 35, 49?

49
16
35 (Correct answer)
9

Correct answer: 35

All others are perfect squares (2², 3², 4², 5², 7²), but 35 is not a perfect square.

Question 46: In a scrambled paragraph, a sentence beginning with 'This discovery' most likely:

Follows the sentence that describes the discovery (Correct answer)
Starts the paragraph
Ends with a question
Introduces a new topic

Correct answer: Follows the sentence that describes the discovery

'This discovery' is a pronoun reference that must follow the sentence that first mentions the discovery.

Question 47: In this paragraph, which two revisions are required?

Sentence 2: Insert a comma after company. Sentence 4: Change remarketed to had remarketed.
Sentence 1: Delete the comma after homes. Sentence 4: Change remarketed to had remarketed.
Sentence 2: Insert a comma after company. Sentence 3: Change becomes to became. (Correct answer)
Sentence 1: Delete the comma after homes. Sentence 3: Change becomes to became.

Correct answer: Sentence 2: Insert a comma after company. Sentence 3: Change becomes to became.

Without the original paragraph, the specific reasons for these revisions are speculative. However, inserting a comma after "company" in Sentence 2 likely corrects a punctuation error, such as separating an introductory phrase or a non-essential clause from the main part of the sentence. Changing "becomes" to "became" in Sentence 3 suggests a verb tense correction, indicating that the action or state occurred in the past, aligning with the narrative's timeline. These two revisions address common grammatical and stylistic issues.

Question 48: How many x values does the function not equal 1? f(x) = (x - 3)/(x - 3)

3
23
0
3
infinitely many (Correct answer)

Correct answer: infinitely many

Since the numerator and denominator are the same, we always get the value 1 for f(x). So, the answer is infinitely many.

Question 49: What is 15% of 240?

24
36 (Correct answer)
48
30

Correct answer: 36

0.15 × 240 = 36.

Question 50: What is the slope of a perpendicular line? 4𝑥−2𝑦 = 12?

-1/4
-2
- 1/2 (Correct answer)
4

Correct answer: - 1/2

First, find the slope of the given line 4x - 2y = 12 by rearranging it into slope-intercept form (y = mx + b). Subtract 4x from both sides to get -2y = -4x + 12, then divide by -2 to get y = 2x - 6. The slope of this line (m1) is 2. The slope of a perpendicular line (m2) is the negative reciprocal of m1, which is -1/2.

Question 51: If a passage's main idea is about the importance of renewable energy, which detail best supports this?

Oil prices fluctuate with global markets
Nuclear plants require cooling water
Coal was discovered in the 18th century
Solar panels reduce carbon emissions significantly (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Solar panels reduce carbon emissions significantly

The detail about solar panels reducing carbon emissions directly supports the importance of renewable energy.

Question 52: Larissa's father has a new job that requires him to travel to Albany on a weekly trips, therefore he's looking for a inexpensive reliable vehicle. Which correction should be made to this sentence?

insert a comma after position
insert a comma after reliable
insert a comma after trips
insert a comma after inexpensive (Correct answer)

Correct answer: insert a comma after inexpensive

The correct answer is to insert a comma after "inexpensive" because "inexpensive" and "reliable" are coordinate adjectives modifying "vehicle." Coordinate adjectives describe the same noun independently and should be separated by a comma. This ensures proper punctuation and clarity in the description of the vehicle.

Question 53: What is the most likely meaning of "reluctant" in: "He was reluctant to share his answer"?

unwilling (Correct answer)
confused
proud
eager

Correct answer: unwilling

"Reluctant" means hesitant or unwilling to do something.

Question 54: What would be the best way to rewrite this sentence?

To promote their club, members of the debate team will sponsor a bake sale on Wednesday. (Correct answer)
To promote their club, on Wednesday a bake sale will be sponsored by members of the debate team.
Members of the debate team, on Wednesday to promote their club, will sponsor a bake sale.
On Wednesday, to promote their club, a bake sale will be sponsored by members of the debate team.

Correct answer: To promote their club, members of the debate team will sponsor a bake sale on Wednesday.

The correct answer, "To promote their club, members of the debate team will sponsor a bake sale on Wednesday," is the most effective rewrite because it uses the active voice, making the sentence clear and direct. The introductory infinitive phrase "To promote their club" is correctly placed, and the sentence maintains a logical flow, clearly stating who will do what and when. This structure is concise and easy to understand.

Question 55: Which revision eliminates the wordiness in: 'At this point in time, we are currently unable to proceed forward.'?

At this time, we are currently unable to proceed.
Currently, we are not able to proceed forward at this time.
We cannot proceed. (Correct answer)
At this point, we are unable to currently proceed forward.

Correct answer: We cannot proceed.

'We cannot proceed' eliminates all redundant phrases ('at this point in time,' 'currently,' and 'forward') to achieve maximum concision.

Question 56: What is the area of a circle with radius 5? (Use π ≈ 3.14)

31.4
78.5 (Correct answer)
15.7
314

Correct answer: 78.5

Area = πr² = 3.14 × 5² = 3.14 × 25 = 78.5.

Question 57: A bag has 3 red marbles and 5 blue marbles. If one marble is drawn at random, what is the probability it is red?

1/3
3/8 (Correct answer)
3/5
5/8

Correct answer: 3/8

Probability = favorable outcomes ÷ total outcomes = 3 ÷ (3 + 5) = 3/8.

Question 58: A student writes: 'The committee made their decision quickly.' What issue, if any, exists in this sentence?

No issue; the sentence is correct as written.
Subject-verb disagreement: 'committee' needs 'makes'
Pronoun-antecedent disagreement: 'committee' is singular, so 'its' is preferred in formal writing (Correct answer)
Incorrect verb tense: should be 'have made'

Correct answer: Pronoun-antecedent disagreement: 'committee' is singular, so 'its' is preferred in formal writing

In formal American English, collective nouns like 'committee' are singular and take singular pronouns like 'its,' though 'their' is increasingly accepted informally.

Question 59: A rectangular garden is 12 meters long and 7 meters wide. What is its area?

84 m² (Correct answer)
76 m²
38 m²
42 m²

Correct answer: 84 m²

Area = length × width = 12 × 7 = 84 m².

Question 60: Simplify: 3x + 4y − x + 2y

2x + 6y (Correct answer)
2x + 2y
4x + 6y
4x + 2y

Correct answer: 2x + 6y

Combine like terms: (3x − x) + (4y + 2y) = 2x + 6y.

Question 61: Which sentence corrects the faulty pronoun reference? "When Jake met Sam, he was nervous."

When he met Sam, Jake was nervous he.
When Jake met him, he was nervous.
He was nervous when Jake met Sam he.
When Jake met Sam, Jake was nervous. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: When Jake met Sam, Jake was nervous.

Replacing the ambiguous "he" with "Jake" makes it clear who was nervous.

Question 62: Last season, the Cougar team won 16 games. The Cougar team won 20 games this season. From last year to this year, what is the percentage increase in the number of games the Cougar team have won?

70%
25% (Correct answer)
30%
125%

Correct answer: 25%

This response represents the correct percent increase in the number of games the Cougar team won from last year to this year. 20/16 = 125/100 125 - 100 = 25

Question 63: A rectangular yard has a perimeter of 60 meters. If its width is double its length, what is its length?

18 meters
10 meters (Correct answer)
24 meters
20 meters

Correct answer: 10 meters

The perimeter of a rectangle is calculated as 2(length + width). Let the length be 'L'. The problem states the width is double its length, so width = 2L. Given the perimeter is 60 meters, we set up the equation: 2(L + 2L) = 60. This simplifies to 2(3L) = 60, or 6L = 60. Dividing by 6, we find L = 10 meters.

Question 64: A right triangle has legs of length 3 and 4. What is the hypotenuse?

8
7
5 (Correct answer)
6

Correct answer: 5

Using the Pythagorean theorem: 3² + 4² = 9 + 16 = 25, and √25 = 5.

Question 65: Several high school students volunteer in their communities, working with peers, younger kids, and elderly people.

spend one’s time involved in the community by working with peers, young children and also helping senior citizens.d.
spend his time involved in the community by working with peers, young children and also helping senior citizens.
spend their time involving in the community by working with peers, young children and also helping senior citizens.
spend their time involved in the community by working with peers, young children and senior citizens. (Correct answer)
spend their time involved in the community by working with peers, young children and also helping senior citizens

Correct answer: spend their time involved in the community by working with peers, young children and senior citizens.

The correct answer, "spend their time involved in the community by working with peers, young children and senior citizens," is the most concise and grammatically sound option. It uses the correct pronoun "their" to agree with the plural subject "students" and maintains parallelism in the list of groups they work with. It also avoids redundant phrases like "also helping" and uses "involved in" correctly, making the sentence clear and efficient.

Question 66: The sequence 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, ... follows what rule?

Each term increases by 3
Each term is the sum of the two before it (Correct answer)
Each term doubles
Each term is multiplied by a prime

Correct answer: Each term is the sum of the two before it

This is the Fibonacci sequence, where each term equals the sum of the two preceding terms.

Question 67: Which sentence has an error in subject-verb agreement?

Both the cat and the dog were sleeping.
Neither the teacher nor the students were prepared.
The group of scientists publish their findings annually. (Correct answer)
Each of the players has a uniform.

Correct answer: The group of scientists publish their findings annually.

'Group' is a singular collective noun that requires the singular verb 'publishes,' not the plural 'publish.'

Question 68: Which revision removes unnecessary wordiness? "Due to the fact that it rained, we stayed inside."

Because it rained, we stayed inside. (Correct answer)
Because of the fact it rained, we stayed inside.
Due to the rain fact, we stayed inside.
We stayed inside due to the fact of raining.

Correct answer: Because it rained, we stayed inside.

"Because" replaces the wordy phrase "due to the fact that" concisely.

Question 69: A passage states the narrator "counted the cracks in the ceiling for the third time that night." This detail mainly conveys that the narrator is:

cleaning the room
unable to sleep (Correct answer)
afraid of heights
carefully decorating

Correct answer: unable to sleep

Repeatedly counting ceiling cracks at night suggests restlessness or insomnia.

Question 70: A rectangle has length 12 and width 7. What is its perimeter?

19
42
84
38 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 38

Perimeter = 2(12 + 7) = 2(19) = 38.

Question 71: At the start of sentence 5, which transition word or phrase should be used?

In contrast,
H) Primarily,
Unfortunately, (Correct answer)
As a result,

Correct answer: Unfortunately,

The transition word "Unfortunately" is the most appropriate choice because it signals that sentence 5 will introduce a negative or problematic aspect related to the preceding information. If the previous sentences discuss the benefits of something, "Unfortunately" would logically introduce a drawback, challenge, or a less-than-ideal reality, setting a contrasting tone for the upcoming statement.

Question 72: When x=3 and y=2 what is the value of the expression (5(x2y)+(2x))2?

32
60
18
36 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 36

Plug in the value of x and y. 𝑥=3 and 𝑦=−2 (5(𝑥−2𝑦)+(2−𝑥))2 = (5(3−2(−2))+(2−3))2 = (5(3+4)+(−1))2 =(34)2 = 36

Question 73: An angle measuring exactly 90° is called a:

Acute angle
Right angle (Correct answer)
Obtuse angle
Straight angle

Correct answer: Right angle

A right angle measures exactly 90° and is often marked with a small square symbol.

Question 74: A sentence beginning 'As a result of these policies' must follow a sentence about:

The effects of the policies
An unrelated historical event
A question about policies
The specific policies themselves (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The specific policies themselves

'These policies' is a reference that requires the policies to have been described in the preceding sentence.

Question 75: Which inequality represents 'x is at least 7'?

x < 7
x ≥ 7 (Correct answer)
x ≤ 7
x > 7

Correct answer: x ≥ 7

'At least 7' means x can equal 7 or be greater, which is expressed as x ≥ 7.

Question 76: What is the value of 2^5 + 3^2?

31
37
25
41 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 41

2^5 = 32 and 3^2 = 9, so the sum is 41.

Question 77: In organizing a scrambled paragraph, which type of sentence should generally come last?

A sentence with 'first' or 'initially'
A sentence giving a specific example
A sentence summarizing or drawing a conclusion (Correct answer)
A sentence introducing the topic

Correct answer: A sentence summarizing or drawing a conclusion

Concluding sentences wrap up the paragraph's ideas and are placed at the end.

Question 78: Which expression is equivalent to 2(3x + 4)?

3x + 8
5x + 8
6x + 4
6x + 8 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 6x + 8

Distribute 2 to each term: 2 × 3x = 6x and 2 × 4 = 8, giving 6x + 8.

Question 79: Maria earns $12 per hour. She works 6 hours on Monday and 8 hours on Tuesday. How much does she earn in total?

$144
$156
$168 (Correct answer)
$180

Correct answer: $168

Total hours = 6 + 8 = 14; earnings = 14 × $12 = $168.

Question 80: A store buys a shirt for $20 and sells it for $30. What is the percent markup?

33%
25%
50% (Correct answer)
40%

Correct answer: 50%

Markup = ($30 − $20) ÷ $20 × 100 = $10 ÷ $20 × 100 = 50%.

Question 81: Which sentence is written in passive voice?

The coach trained the athletes every morning.
The trophy was awarded to the winning team. (Correct answer)
The chef prepared a delicious meal.
Students completed the assignment on time.

Correct answer: The trophy was awarded to the winning team.

Option C is passive because the subject ('trophy') receives the action rather than performing it; the agent ('by the committee') is implied.

Question 82: To correct a misplaced modifier, which sentence should be revised?

Sentence 1
Sentence 2 (Correct answer)
Sentence 4
Sentence 3

Correct answer: Sentence 2

Without the specific content of Sentence 2, it's impossible to provide the exact misplaced modifier. However, a sentence requires revision for a misplaced modifier when a descriptive phrase or clause is positioned in a way that it seems to modify the wrong noun or pronoun, creating an awkward or nonsensical meaning. The revision would involve moving the modifier closer to the word it is intended to describe, clarifying the sentence's meaning.

Question 83: Which sentence logically follows: 'Scientists have linked sedentary lifestyles to increased health risks.'

The human spine evolved for walking.
Chairs were invented in ancient Egypt.
Sports can be played indoors or outdoors.
Consequently, experts recommend at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Consequently, experts recommend at least 30 minutes of daily exercise.

'Consequently' connects the health risk finding to the logical recommendation for exercise as a response.

Question 84: An author includes a personal anecdote in a persuasive essay most likely to:

define key vocabulary
list a bibliography
connect emotionally with readers (Correct answer)
provide statistical proof

Correct answer: connect emotionally with readers

Personal anecdotes appeal to emotion and help readers relate to the argument.

Question 85: An author begins an essay with a surprising statistic. This technique most likely serves to:

define a technical term
summarize the conclusion
capture the reader's attention (Correct answer)
list the sources used

Correct answer: capture the reader's attention

A striking statistic is a hook used to engage readers at the start.

Question 86: Determine whether the underlined portion of the following statement is correct or needs to be revised.

Jewelry is an accessory used by members of all classes including watches, necklaces and earrings.
Jewelry, including watches, necklaces and earrings, are an accessory used by members of all classes.
Jewelry is accessorized by members of all classes including watches, necklaces and earrings.
Jewelry, including watches, necklaces and earrings, is an accessory used by members of all classes. (Correct answer)
Jewelry is an accessory used by members of all classes which includes watches, necklaces and wearing earrings.

Correct answer: Jewelry, including watches, necklaces and earrings, is an accessory used by members of all classes.

The original sentence has a grammatical error and awkward phrasing. Option E corrects the parallelism by listing 'watches, necklaces, and earrings' as items of jewelry, and correctly uses the singular verb 'is' because the subject 'Jewelry' is singular, even with the intervening phrase. It also improves conciseness and clarity compared to the other options, making it the most grammatically sound and stylistically appropriate choice.

Question 87: Which revision best combines these sentences? "The library was quiet. Students were studying for exams."

The library was quiet, students were studying for exams.
The library was quiet because students were studying for exams. (Correct answer)
Being quiet, the students studied in the library exams.
The library was quiet and students were studying for exams it was quiet.

Correct answer: The library was quiet because students were studying for exams.

Using "because" shows the logical cause-and-effect relationship between the quiet and the studying.

Question 88: 'In contrast' is used to signal:

A supporting example
A difference between two ideas (Correct answer)
A summary of the paragraph
A time sequence

Correct answer: A difference between two ideas

'In contrast' introduces an opposing or different idea compared to what was previously stated.

Question 89: A paragraph's sentences are: (1) This caused widespread famine. (2) Crops failed due to drought. (3) Governments had to distribute aid. Which is the correct order?

1, 2, 3
1, 3, 2
2, 1, 3 (Correct answer)
3, 1, 2

Correct answer: 2, 1, 3

The logical sequence is: crops failed (cause) → famine resulted (effect) → governments responded (reaction).

Question 90: When an author presents only one side of an argument, this is called:

Descriptive writing
Objective writing
Biased writing (Correct answer)
Narrative writing

Correct answer: Biased writing

Biased writing presents only one perspective and may exclude or distort opposing views.

Question 91: Solve for x: 3x + 7 = 22

7
3
5 (Correct answer)
4

Correct answer: 5

Subtract 7 from both sides to get 3x = 15, then divide by 3 to get x = 5.

Question 92: If one angle of a right triangle is 30°, what is the third angle?

45°
90°
60° (Correct answer)
30°

Correct answer: 60°

The three angles sum to 180°: 90° + 30° + x = 180°, so x = 60°.

Question 93: What is the main purpose of a topic sentence in a paragraph?

To cite a source
To provide a specific example
To conclude the entire essay
To state the paragraph's central idea (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To state the paragraph's central idea

A topic sentence introduces the main idea that the paragraph develops.

Question 94: Determine whether the underlined portion of the following statement is correct or needs to be revised.

is a great way to make friends however
will be a great way to make friends and
are a great way to make friends and (Correct answer)
will have been a great way to make friends and
is a great way to make friends and

Correct answer: are a great way to make friends and

The correct answer, "are a great way to make friends and," uses the plural verb "are," which correctly agrees with an implied plural subject (e.g., "These activities"). Additionally, it uses the coordinating conjunction "and" to properly connect clauses or phrases, avoiding the common error of using "however" without proper punctuation to join independent clauses. This ensures grammatical correctness and smooth sentence flow.

Question 95: The word 'subsequently' in a scrambled paragraph indicates:

A contrasting idea follows
A definition follows
Something that happened after follows (Correct answer)
An example follows

Correct answer: Something that happened after follows

'Subsequently' means afterward or following in time, indicating the next event in a sequence.

Question 96: Which word choice is MOST precise in this sentence: 'The scientist made an important _____ about the new species.'?

conclusion-making
discovery (Correct answer)
thing
finding-out

Correct answer: discovery

'Discovery' is the precise, standard term for a scientist's finding of something new, unlike the vague 'thing' or the non-standard other options.

Question 97: What is the value of 5x² when x = 2?

100
20 (Correct answer)
10
40

Correct answer: 20

Calculate x² = 4 first, then multiply by 5: 5 × 4 = 20.

Question 98: If 5 pens cost $3.75, how much do 8 pens cost?

$5.25
$6.50
$4.80
$6.00 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $6.00

Each pen costs $0.75, so 8 pens cost $6.00.

Question 99: Marcus used his $25 to go bowling. He paid $4.00 for each game after renting sneakers for $5.25. How many games could Marcus have played in total?

16
8
4 (Correct answer)
24

Correct answer: 4

This response represents the correct solution to the word problem. The student may have set up and solved the inequality as shown below, where x represents the number of games played: 4x + 5.25 < 25 4x < 19.75 X < 4.9375 The student who selects this response understands that the greatest number of games played has to be a whole number less than 4.9375.

Question 100: A pool is filled by two pipes. Pipe A fills it in 4 hours, Pipe B in 6 hours. How long together?

3 hours
2 hours
2.4 hours (Correct answer)
2.5 hours

Correct answer: 2.4 hours

Combined rate = 1/4 + 1/6 = 3/12 + 2/12 = 5/12 per hour; time = 12/5 = 2.4 hours.

Question 101: A bicycle wheel has a diameter of 26 inches. How far does the bike travel in one full rotation of the wheel? (Use π ≈ 3.14)

40.82 in
52 in
163.28 in
81.64 in (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 81.64 in

Circumference = π × d = 3.14 × 26 = 81.64 inches per rotation.

Question 102: Which question best identifies the author's purpose in a persuasive passage about reducing plastic waste?

Why should readers change their plastic use habits? (Correct answer)
Where is the largest plastic recycling plant?
What year was plastic invented?
How does plastic harm ocean ecosystems?

Correct answer: Why should readers change their plastic use habits?

The author's purpose in a persuasive passage is to convince readers to take a specific action or adopt a viewpoint.

Question 103: The word 'deteriorate' most nearly means:

To increase in value
To remain unchanged
To improve steadily
To get worse over time (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To get worse over time

'Deteriorate' means to become progressively worse or decline in quality.

Question 104: The price of a $200 tool has been reduced by 15%. After a month, the tool is reduced by 15% further. Which of the following expressions can be used to calculate the tool's selling price?

(200)(0.85)(0.85) (Correct answer)
(200)(0.70)
(200)–200(0.30)
(200)(0.15)–(200)(0.15)

Correct answer: (200)(0.85)(0.85)

To find the discount, multiply the number by (100%–rate of discount). Therefore, for the first discount we get: (200)(100%–15%)=(200)(0.85)=170 For the next 15% discount: (200)(0.85)(0.85)

Question 105: Between 4 and 16 inclusive, how many prime numbers are there?

4 (Correct answer)
2
5
6
3

Correct answer: 4

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 Prime numbers are 5, 7, 11, 13 Hence there are 4 prime numbers between 4 and 16.

Question 106: Which transition correctly shows contrast: 'He trained for months. ___, he finished last.'

Therefore
Nevertheless (Correct answer)
Furthermore
As a result

Correct answer: Nevertheless

'Nevertheless' signals that the outcome (finishing last) was unexpected given the preparation (training for months).

Question 107: Which version of the sentence uses parallel structure correctly?

She likes to swim, running, and to play tennis.
She likes to swim, run, and playing tennis.
She likes swimming, to run, and tennis.
She likes swimming, running, and playing tennis. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: She likes swimming, running, and playing tennis.

Option C uses the gerund form (swimming, running, playing) consistently for all three items, creating proper parallel structure.

Question 108: If a number is increased by 40% and the result is 84, what was the original number?

120
50
44
60 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 60

1.4 × original = 84, so original = 84 / 1.4 = 60.

Question 109: Two angles that add up to 90° are called:

Vertical
Supplementary
Complementary (Correct answer)
Adjacent

Correct answer: Complementary

Complementary angles sum to exactly 90°.

Question 110: A city's population is predicted to rise by 7.5 percent next year. Which expression indicates the predicted population next year if p represents the current population?

1 + 0.075
1.075 p (Correct answer)
p + 0.075
1.75 p

Correct answer: 1.075 p

This response represents the correct expression that shows the expected population in the following year. A student who selects this response understands how the quantities in the expression are related in this problem context.

Question 111: A circle has a radius of 6. What is its circumference? (Use π ≈ 3.14)

113.04
37.68 (Correct answer)
18.84
75.36

Correct answer: 37.68

Circumference = 2πr = 2 × 3.14 × 6 = 37.68.

Question 112: Two lines that never intersect and are in the same plane are called:

Skew
Perpendicular
Parallel (Correct answer)
Intersecting

Correct answer: Parallel

Parallel lines lie in the same plane and never intersect, maintaining equal distance apart.

Question 113: An author who uses the word 'unfortunately' is most likely expressing:

Excitement about an outcome
A neutral observation
A sense of regret or disappointment (Correct answer)
A factual statistic

Correct answer: A sense of regret or disappointment

'Unfortunately' is a word that expresses the author's regret or disappointment about an outcome.

Question 114: If RED = 27 + 5 + 4 = 36 using A=1, B=2... Z=26, what does CAT equal?

24 (Correct answer)
30
21
27

Correct answer: 24

C=3, A=1, T=20; sum = 3 + 1 + 20 = 24.

Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT)

The SHSAT is a standardized test used for admission to New York City's specialized high schools, assessing students in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Scores are competitive and determine eligibility for schools like Stuyvesant High School and Bronx Science.

Questions

35 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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