Praxis Writing : Voice

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Praxis Writing

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Example Questions

Example Question #4 : Identifying Word Usage Errors

Replace the underlined portion with the answer choice that results in a sentence that is clear, precise, and meets the requirements of standard written English.

If I was you, I would leave that job immediately.

Possible Answers:

was

will

had of been

were

Correct answer:

were

Explanation:

This sentence expresses a hypothetical condition that is contrary to fact ("I," by definition, am not "you"), and therefore needs to be expressed using verbs in the subjunctive mood. "If" is a usually a good indication that a sentence will be in the subjunctive mood. In the subjunctive, "were" should be used instead of "was." "If I were you, I would leave that job immediately."

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