Texas Civil Service Exam Grammar and Writing Ability 4

Question 1

Which sentence correctly uses a colon?

Accepted Answer

The officer needed the following items: a flashlight, a radio, and a notepad.

Answer

A colon is correctly placed after a complete independent clause to introduce a list.

Question 2

Identify the correct word to fill in the blank: 'The evidence was _____ to the case.'

Accepted Answer

pertinent

Answer

'Pertinent' is the correct spelling, meaning relevant or applicable.

Question 3

Which sentence correctly distinguishes 'affect' from 'effect'?

Accepted Answer

The new policy will affect how officers file reports.

Answer

'Affect' is usually a verb meaning to influence, while 'effect' is usually a noun meaning a result.

Question 4

Which revision best improves the clarity of this sentence: 'At this point in time, the investigation is ongoing.'

Accepted Answer

Currently, the investigation is ongoing.

Answer

'Currently' replaces the wordy phrase 'at this point in time,' making the sentence more concise.

Question 5

Choose the sentence that correctly uses 'its' vs. 'it's.'

Accepted Answer

The department updated its procedures last quarter.

Answer

'Its' (no apostrophe) is the possessive pronoun; 'it's' is the contraction for 'it is.'

Texas Civil Service Exam Practice Test