West B Test Writing: Revision and Editing Skills 4

Question 1

A writer drafts: 'Due to the fact that it was raining, the game was postponed.' Which revision is most concise?

Accepted Answer

Because it was raining, the game was postponed.

Answer

'Because' replaces the wordy phrase 'due to the fact that' with a single subordinating conjunction.

Question 2

Which sentence correctly uses an apostrophe?

Accepted Answer

The students' notebooks were on the desk.

Answer

When a plural noun ending in -s shows possession, the apostrophe is placed after the final s.

Question 3

Which revision best corrects the shift in verb tense? 'She walked into the room and sees the message on the board.'

Accepted Answer

Both A and B are correct revisions.

Answer

Consistency is key — either both verbs should be past tense (A) or both present tense (B), eliminating the tense shift.

Question 4

Which sentence is an example of a run-on sentence?

Accepted Answer

She studied she passed the test.

Answer

Two independent clauses joined without punctuation or a conjunction create a run-on (fused) sentence.

Question 5

A student writes a persuasive essay. Which revision best strengthens the argument by adding a counterargument and rebuttal?

Accepted Answer

Some disagree with uniforms, but uniforms reduce social pressure and keep students focused on learning.

Answer

Acknowledging the opposing view and refuting it demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens a persuasive argument.

West B Test Practice Test