Question

Select the best sentence from among the given choices. (A) Apple did too, when the company decides to build a touch screen device big enough to read, draw, and right on. (B) Apple did too, when the company decided to build a touch screen device big enough to read, draw, and right on. (C) Apple did too, when the company decides to build a touch screen device big enough to read, draw, and write on. (D) Apple did too, when the company decided to build a touch screen device big enough to read, draw, and write on.

Short answer

The best sentence among the given options is (D) Apple did too, when the company decided to build a touch screen device big enough to read, draw, and write on.

Step-by-step solution

Check the verb tense

The first difference between the sentences is the tense of the verb "decide": "decides" (A, C) or "decided" (B, D). Since the sentence is talking about a past action, the correct verb tense should be past simple, "decided". So, choices A and C can be eliminated.

Check word choice

Now, we need to compare choices B and D. There is only one difference in word choice: "right" (B) vs "write" (D). Since the context refers to a touch screen device that can be used for multiple actions, the correct word should be "write", not "right".

Choose the best sentence

Based on the analysis of verb tense and word choice, the best sentence among the given options is: (D) Apple did too, when the company decided to build a touch screen device big enough to read, draw, and write on.

Key concepts

Understanding Verb Tense

Verb tense indicates the time of action in a sentence. It helps the reader understand when the action takes place. In the case of our exercise, we had to choose between "decides" and "decided". The word "decides" is present tense, showing an action that happens habitually or currently. In contrast, "decided" is past tense, indicating a completed action.

Since the context talks about Apple's past decision, the correct verb tense to use is the past tense, "decided". Using the wrong verb tense can confuse the reader about the timeline of events. Always pay attention to the time context provided in the sentence to select the appropriate verb tense.

Mastering Word Choice

Word choice is crucial because even small errors can change the meaning of a sentence. In our example, the words "right" and "write" are homophones. They sound alike but have different meanings.

"Right" refers to something correct or a direction, while "write" means to inscribe or put text down with a pen or keyboard.

• "Right": Correct or a direction (e.g., go right at the street corner).
• "Write": To mark letters or words (e.g., I need to write a letter).

Since the sentence discusses functions of a touch screen device, like reading and drawing, "write" is the appropriate choice. Always ensure that the word chosen matches the context and intended meaning of the sentence.

The Importance of Sentence Structure

Sentence structure refers to the order and organization of words in a sentence, ensuring coherence and clarity. Good sentence structure allows the reader to follow the sentence smoothly without losing the intended meaning.

In our example, the correct sentence, option (D), demonstrates clear and logical structure. It begins with "Apple did too," which implies a previous action by Apple leaders in technology. The sequence "when the company decided to build a..." seamlessly connects the phrase, clarifying Apple's action timeline. Placing verbs and subjects correctly is key.

• Ensure subject-verb agreement.
• Maintain a logical flow of ideas.
• Keep related words together for clarity.

Effective sentence structure provides a clear image of what the writer wants to communicate, avoiding misunderstandings.