Question

In answer to the candidate’s query, the test administrator said that dictionaries may not be taken into the examination room. A. dictionaries may not be taken B. dictionaries can’t not be taken C. dictionaries cannot be taken D. dictionaries have got not to be taken E. dictionaries be not allowed into

Short answer

C. dictionaries cannot be taken

Step-by-step solution

Review the Sentence

Read the sentence carefully, especially noting the phrase: 'dictionaries may not be taken into the examination room.'

Identify the Key Information

The key information here is the prohibition of taking dictionaries into the examination room.

Evaluate Option A

Option A: 'dictionaries may not be taken.' This is a direct restatement of the key information. It is grammatically correct and clear.

Evaluate Option B

Option B: 'dictionaries can’t not be taken.' This uses a double negative, which is grammatically incorrect and confusing.

Evaluate Option C

Option C: 'dictionaries cannot be taken.' This is a clear, grammatical, and correct alternative to 'may not be taken.'

Evaluate Option D

Option D: 'dictionaries have got not to be taken.' This is awkward and not a standard form in English grammar.

Evaluate Option E

Option E: 'dictionaries be not allowed into.' This is incomplete and ungrammatical.

Choose the Best Option

Since Option C provides a correct and clear alternative to the original statement, it is the best choice.

Key concepts

grammar rules

Grammar rules are essential for understanding sentence structure and meaning, especially when preparing for the GMAT. For example, double negatives are grammatically incorrect in standard English because they can confuse the reader. In options from the exercise, 'dictionaries can’t not be taken’ shows a clear example of a double negative. Knowing grammar rules helps eliminate such incorrect options. Another key rule is understanding the use of modals like 'can' and 'may.' These modals indicate permission or ability, and using the correct one is critical for clarity. Past modals and verbs consistency are another common rule; they need to match the main verb's tense for the sentence to make sense.

sentence correction

Sentence correction on the GMAT tests your ability to identify and correct grammatical errors. It involves ensuring that the sentence is clear, concise, and free of errors. In the exercise, we see that Option A: 'dictionaries may not be taken' and Option C: 'dictionaries cannot be taken' are both grammatically correct. The goal is to pick the sentence where the meaning is conveyed in the best and clearest way. This means evaluating each option for common errors such as subject-verb agreement, modifier placement, and parallelism. Avoiding awkward or non-standard phrasing, like in Option D: 'dictionaries have got not to be taken,' is also vital.

test-taking strategies

Developing strong test-taking strategies is crucial for success on the GMAT. One effective approach is the process of elimination. By systematically evaluating each option as shown in the exercise, you can discard incorrect choices quickly. Begin with reading the entire sentence to understand its meaning. Identify key information that must be preserved. Then, review each option cautiously, correcting grammatical issues if needed. Prioritize clarity and grammatical correctness. Practicing with these steps in mind enhances your ability to choose the best possible answer under time constraints.

exam instructions

Following exam instructions carefully is fundamental to doing well on the GMAT. Carefully read each sentence and instruction before attempting to answer. Remember, many GMAT questions are designed with traps for common errors, such as double negatives or awkward phrasing. Make sure to understand what the question is specifically asking for. For sentence correction, focus on maintaining the sentence's original meaning while improving grammar. If allowed, double-check your answers to ensure you didn't overlook simple errors. It’s not just about getting to the right answer but doing so swiftly and accurately.