Complex Text Completion Strategies
In the GRE Exam, the Text Completion section evaluates your ability to make inferences and understand complex sentences. This topic focuses on advanced strategies to tackle complex text completions effectively.
Understanding Complex Texts
Complex texts often include multiple clauses, nuanced vocabulary, and intricate ideas. To navigate these effectively, you need a solid strategy:
1. Read the Entire Sentence: Before looking at the blanks, read the entire sentence to grasp its overall meaning and context. 2. Identify Clues: Look for context clues that indicate the tone or direction of the sentence. Words like 'however', 'despite', 'therefore', or 'similarly' can hint at contrasts or continuities. 3. Analyze the Structure: Break down the sentence structure. Identify the subject, verb, and objects. Understanding how the sentence is constructed can help you understand what type of word fits in the blank.
Strategies for Filling in the Blanks
Strategy 1: Predict the Meaning
Before examining the answer choices, think about what type of word (noun, verb, adjective, adverb) would logically fit into the blank. For example:
> The scientist’s findings were ______; they contradicted established theories and required a complete reevaluation of the field.
Predicted word: revolutionary (adjective)
Strategy 2: Eliminate Wrong Answers
Once you read the sentence and predict a word, look at the answer choices and eliminate any that clearly do not fit. For instance, if the predicted word is ‘revolutionary’, you can eliminate options that suggest minor or trivial changes.
Strategy 3: Contextual Synonyms
Look for synonyms in the answer choices that match the tone and meaning of the sentence. For example:
> The novel is often considered a ______ exploration of the human condition, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths.
If you know that 'profound' is synonymous with 'deep' and fits the context better than 'superficial', then choose that option.
Strategy 4: Consider the Entire Passage
In some cases, the text completion may be part of a longer passage. Understanding the entire passage can provide important context for filling in the blanks. Always consider how the sentence fits into the broader narrative or argument.
Example Practice
Consider the following sentence:
> The committee was ______ in its decision, leading to widespread discontent among the community.
Answer Choices:
- A) ambiguous - B) decisive - C) indifferent - D) meticulousCorrect Answer: B) decisive Explanation: The context suggests that the committee’s clear and firm decision caused discontent. An ambiguous or indifferent decision would likely not lead to widespread discontent.
Practice Makes Perfect
As you practice text completions, remember to apply these strategies consistently. The more you practice, the more intuitive these strategies will become. Use GRE practice resources to simulate test conditions and improve your timing and accuracy.
Conclusion
Mastering complex text completion strategies requires an understanding of context, structure, and meaning. By employing these strategies, you can enhance your skills and improve your performance on the GRE.