Question

A) NO CHANGE B) instituted C) begun the institution D) instituted by enacting

Short answer

Option B: "instituted"

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate Option A

Option A suggests no change. So, we will assume the original sentence is already correct and evaluate the other options for comparison.

Evaluate Option B

Option B: "instituted". This wording is concise and straightforward. It implies that something was successfully established.

Evaluate Option C

Option C: "begun the institution". This phrasing is more complicated than the other options and sounds a bit awkward in a sentence. It suggests that the process of establishing something has started, but has not yet been completed.

Evaluate Option D

Option D: "instituted by enacting". This phrasing is also more complicated and could be considered redundant, as both "instituting" and "enacting" imply that something has been put into place or action.

Choose the most appropriate option

Based on the evaluations of the four options, Option B: "instituted" is the most appropriate choice. It is concise, straightforward, and implies that something was successfully established.

Key concepts

SAT Grammar Questions

Understanding grammar is crucial for the Writing and Language section of the SAT. The test assesses your ability to recognize and apply standard English conventions. This includes the use of punctuation, subject-verb agreement, and verb tense, to name a few.

For example, when you encounter a question like the one in our exercise, where you have to choose the most appropriate verb to complete a sentence, you should look for simplicity and clarity. Convoluted phrasings often lead to awkward sentences that the SAT frowns upon. As revealed in the step-by-step solution, 'instituted' is preferable over 'begun the institution' due to its conciseness and accuracy in conveying that an action has been established.

• Read each option carefully and consider how it fits within the context of the entire sentence.
• Eliminate choices that introduce redundancy or complexity without adding clarity or precision.
• Be aware of the nuances in meaning and choose the verb that best matches the intended action.

SAT Problem-Solving

When tackling the SAT Writing and Language section, problem-solving skills are just as important as knowing the rules of grammar. The test is designed to measure your ability to revise and edit text to improve expression of ideas.

For instance, when presented with a question, first understand what is being asked. If it’s a matter of choosing the right verb form, as shown in the exercise, it’s not just about grammar; it’s about the most effective way to convey a message.

To improve your problem-solving ability:

• Dissect the question to understand the underlying issue.
• Anticipate what the correct answer should accomplish within the sentence or passage.
• Use process of elimination by checking each answer choice against the intention and flow of the text.

By developing a systematic approach, you can efficiently tackle each question and reduce the risk of being misled by distractor options.

Effective Writing

The SAT Writing and Language section isn’t just testing your ability to spot errors; it evaluates your grasp of effective writing. Effective writing means being concise, clear, and appropriate in tone and style for the given context. It involves structuring your sentences in a way that the meaning is immediately clear to the reader without extraneous or redundant information.

In the context of the given exercise, selecting 'instituted' over more complex phrases exemplifies effective writing. A good rule of thumb is to express ideas as simply as possible without sacrificing meaning.

Here are some tips for effective writing:

• Choose straightforward words that precisely express an idea over verbose or complex language.
• Ensure your sentences flow logically from one to the next, maintaining coherence throughout the text.
• Avoid repetition and redundant phrases that do not add value to your writing.

By refining these skills, you will be well-prepared to write with the clarity and precision that the SAT Writing and Language section requires.