SAT Practice Test (#1) – Writing & Language Test

Determine the noun to which the modifier in this sentence is referring. Then check the noun’s placement to make sure it is as close as possible to the modifier. The modifier is “like most chemists.” Therefore, the noun it modifies should be a person. Choice (B) correctly rearranges the sentence so that “chemists” clearly refers to “Constantin Fahlberg.”

This is the topic sentence of the paragraph. Make sure that it focuses on the correct subject. The purpose of this sentence is to discuss Fahlberg and the circumstances in which he was working. Choice (D) correctly focuses the sentence on Fahlberg and flows well into the next sentence, which discusses the specifics of coal tar.

The pronoun should agree with the noun to which it refers. Identify this noun to determine the correct pronoun. The antecedent of the pronoun here is “coal tar,” a singular, impersonal noun. Choice (B), “from it,” is therefore the correct answer.

Predict what meaning the correct word should convey before choosing an answer. The sentence suggests that while working, Fahlberg was so “___” that he forgot to eat lunch. A word that means focused on or preoccupied with would be most appropriate. Choice (C), “engrossed,” conveys this meaning successfully.

The passage is telling a story. Choose the answer that most effectively makes the transition between the paragraphs while maintaining a consistent tone with the rest of the story. The correct answer will relate to the sentences both before and after it. While answer B may intrigue readers, its tone is out of place when compared with that of the rest of the passage. Choice (D) is the correct answer. It provides a transition from the previous sentence and tells the next logical step in the story.