Agreement mistakes in MCQs: Common errors to avoid
Multiple choice questions (MCQs) are a popular format for testing knowledge and understanding. However, one common problem with MCQs is agreement mistakes. These errors occur when there is a disagreement between the subject and verb, or between the pronoun and antecedent. Agreement mistakes can make your MCQs confusing and difficult to understand, leading to incorrect answers. In this article, we will discuss some common agreement mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Subject-verb agreement
Subject-verb agreement is essential for clarity in MCQs. The subject and verb must agree in number (singular or plural). For example, „The cat (singular subject) chases (singular verb) the mice (plural object)” is correct, while „The cat chases the mouse” is incorrect because the subject and verb do not agree in number.
To avoid agreement mistakes in subject-verb agreement, pay attention to the number of the subject and choose the verb accordingly. Look for the subject that comes before the verb and ensure both are in agreement.
2. Pronoun-antecedent agreement
Pronoun-antecedent agreement is another common agreement mistake in MCQs. A pronoun takes the place of a noun in a sentence, and the antecedent is the noun that the pronoun refers to. Pronoun-antecedent agreement means that the pronoun must match the antecedent in number, gender, and person.
For example, „She (singular feminine pronoun) loves her (singular feminine antecedent) dog” is correct, while „They (plural pronoun) love their (singular antecedent) dog” is incorrect because the pronoun and antecedent do not agree in number.
To avoid agreement mistakes in pronoun-antecedent agreement, identify the antecedent and choose the correct pronoun that matches in number, gender, and person.
3. Singular and plural nouns
Singular and plural nouns can also lead to agreement mistakes in MCQs. English has several rules for pluralization, so it`s important to know when to use singular and plural nouns. For example, „One deer (singular noun)” is correct, while „Two deers” is incorrect because the plural of „deer” is „deer.”
To avoid agreement mistakes in singular and plural nouns, double-check the spelling of the noun and make sure it agrees with your chosen verb or pronoun.
In conclusion, agreement mistakes in MCQs can make your questions difficult to understand and lead to incorrect answers. To avoid these errors, pay attention to subject-verb agreement, pronoun-antecedent agreement, and singular and plural nouns. Always double-check your spelling and make sure all parts of the sentence agree in number, gender, and person. With these tips, your MCQs will be clearer and more effective in testing knowledge and understanding.