Why does ETS recommend writing your own word for the blank before reading the answer choices?
AIt is easier to memorise the answer choices once you have a guess word in mind.
BETS gives extra credit for matching your guess word to the answer key.
CThe answer choices can pollute your guess and bias your reading of the passage.
DThe blank is a vocabulary test and a guess word activates your study list.
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. The answer choices can pollute your guess and bias your reading of the passage.
ETS instructs the test taker to 'try to fill in the blanks with words or phrases that seem to you to fit and then see if similar words are offered among the answer choices.' The idea is that the surrounding passage already constrains the blank; reading the choices first allows their phrasing to colour your interpretation.
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