CLOZE TEST: STRATEGIES & PRACTICE

Tricks and Strategies to Solve Cloze Tests

A Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1. Read the Entire Passage First: Before looking at the options, read the whole passage quickly. This helps you understand the main idea, the overall tone (positive, negative, narrative, analytical), and the tense (past, present, future).
2. 2. Analyze the Blank: Look at the words immediately before and after the blank. This immediate context often provides strong grammatical or logical clues.
3. 3. Apply Grammar Rules:
   • Check for **Subject-Verb Agreement**: Does the subject need a singular or plural verb?
   • Identify the correct **Tense**: Is the passage in the past, present, or future?
   • Find the right **Preposition**: Words like `of`, `for`, `in`, `on` are often tested.
   • Look for **Conjunctions** that create a logical link (e.g., `but`, `although`, `therefore`).
   • Check for **Articles** (`a`, `an`, `the`) and other determiners.
4. 4. Use Vocabulary and Collocation: If grammar doesn't provide a clear answer, the blank is likely testing vocabulary.
   • Think about the **meaning** of the options in the context.
   • Look for **collocations** (words that naturally go together), e.g., "make a mistake," not "do a mistake."
5. 5. Use the Elimination Technique: Actively eliminate options that are clearly wrong. This increases your chances of selecting the correct answer, even if you are not 100% sure.
6. 6. Re-read the Sentence: After you have chosen an answer, read the complete sentence with your chosen word to ensure it sounds logical and grammatically correct.

100 Solved Examples (20 Passages)

1. Passage 1

   Reading is a fundamental skill that __(1)__ a crucial role in a child's development. It not only expands their vocabulary but also improves their __(2)__ to think critically. Through books, children can explore new worlds and __(3)__ different cultures. A lifelong reading habit is one of the greatest gifts a parent can __(4)__ on their child. Therefore, it is essential to __(5)__ reading from a young age.

   • 1. (A) does (B) makes (C) gives (D) plays
   • 2. (A) power (B) ability (C) talent (D) skill
   • 3. (A) create (B) understand (C) invent (D) ignore
   • 4. (A) force (B) put (C) bestow (D) take
   • 5. (A) forbid (B) prevent (C) discourage (D) encourage
   Answers & Explanations:
   1. (D) plays - "Plays a role" is the correct and standard collocation.
   2. (B) ability - The phrase is 'ability to think'. 'Skill' is something you learn; 'ability' is the capacity to do it.
   3. (B) understand - The context of exploring new worlds through books logically leads to understanding different cultures.
   4. (C) bestow - 'Bestow' is a formal verb meaning to confer a gift, which fits the tone perfectly.
   5. (D) encourage - The word 'essential' points to a positive action, which is to 'encourage' reading.

2. Passage 2

   Climate change is one of the most __(6)__ challenges facing humanity today. The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere, __(7)__ to a phenomenon known as global warming. This has far-reaching __(8)__, including rising sea levels. While renewable energy is a promising __(9)__, its widespread adoption faces significant hurdles. It is __(10)__ on all of us to take action.

   • 6. (A) pressing (B) simple (C) gentle (D) pleasant
   • 7. (A) resulting (B) causing (C) leading (D) making
   • 8. (A) causes (B) reasons (C) sources (D) consequences
   • 9. (A) alternative (B) problem (C) issue (D) question
   • 10. (A) dependent (B) incumbent (C) reliant (D) optional
   Answers & Explanations:
   6. (A) pressing - A 'pressing challenge' is a common collocation for an urgent problem.
   7. (C) leading - The correct phrasal verb is 'leading to', which means resulting in.
   8. (D) consequences - The sentence is talking about the effects or results of global warming.
   9. (A) alternative - Renewable energy is presented as an alternative to fossil fuels.
   10. (B) incumbent - 'Incumbent on' is a formal phrase meaning 'necessary as a duty'.

3. Passage 3

   Effective time management is a skill that __(11)__ individuals to make the most of their time. The first step is to __(12)__ your tasks based on urgency and importance. This involves creating a to-do list and __(13)__ deadlines for each item. By doing so, you can avoid stress. It also helps in maintaining a healthy work-life __(14)__. Ultimately, mastering this skill can lead to greater productivity and personal __(15)__.

   • 11. (A) forces (B) allows (C) prevents (D) stops
   • 12. (A) destroy (B) ignore (C) prioritize (D) forget
   • 13. (A) setting (B) removing (C) guessing (D) changing
   • 14. (A) problem (B) issue (C) balance (D) conflict
   • 15. (A) failure (B) satisfaction (C) regret (D) burden
   Answers & Explanations:
   11. (B) allows - Time management empowers or 'allows' people to use time well.
   12. (C) prioritize - The context of urgency and importance points directly to prioritizing tasks.
   13. (A) setting - The correct collocation is 'setting deadlines'.
   14. (C) balance - 'Work-life balance' is the standard, fixed phrase.
   15. (B) satisfaction - Productivity logically leads to a positive feeling like 'satisfaction'.

4. Passage 4

   The ancient city of Rome __(16)__ a rich history that spans over two millennia. It was once the center of a vast empire that __(17)__ a profound influence on Western civilization. The Romans were renowned for their engineering __(18)__, building impressive structures. Many of these ancient __(19)__ can still be seen today. Visiting Rome is like taking a step __(20)__ in time.

   • 16. (A) boasts (B) hides (C) lacks (D) wants
   • 17. (A) exerted (B) denied (C) refused (D) avoided
   • 18. (A) failure (B) weakness (C) prowess (D) fear
   • 19. (A) inventions (B) ideas (C) ruins (D) theories
   • 20. (A) forward (B) sideways (C) around (D) back
   Answers & Explanations:
   16. (A) boasts - To 'boast' something means to have something impressive.
   17. (A) exerted - The correct collocation is to 'exert an influence'.
   18. (C) prowess - 'Prowess' means skill or expertise.
   19. (C) ruins - The context of ancient structures points to 'ruins'.
   20. (D) back - The phrase 'a step back in time' is a common idiom.

5. Passage 5

   A healthy diet is __(21)__ for maintaining good physical and mental health. It should consist of a __(22)__ of nutrients, including carbohydrates and proteins. Eating too much processed food can __(23)__ to various health problems. It is also important to stay hydrated by drinking __(24)__ of water. A good diet, combined with regular exercise, is the __(25)__ to a long and healthy life.

   • 21. (A) unnecessary (B) optional (C) essential (D) harmful
   • 22. (A) lack (B) variety (C) shortage (D) single
   • 23. (A) prevent (B) solve (C) avoid (D) lead
   • 24. (A) plenty (B) little (C) none (D) few
   • 25. (A) problem (B) question (C) key (D) barrier
   Answers & Explanations:
   21. (C) essential - The context indicates that a healthy diet is necessary or 'essential'.
   22. (B) variety - A healthy diet includes a 'variety' of nutrients.
   23. (D) lead - The correct phrasal verb is 'lead to', meaning to result in.
   24. (A) plenty - 'Plenty of' means a large or sufficient amount.
   25. (C) key - 'The key to' is an idiom meaning the most important factor.

6. Passage 6

   The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate and __(26)__ information. It connects billions of people worldwide, __(27)__ geographical barriers. However, this connectivity also __(28)__ risks, such as misinformation. It is crucial to use this powerful tool __(29)__ and to be __(30)__ of the information we consume.

   • 26. (A) ignore (B) delete (C) hide (D) access
   • 27. (A) building (B) transcending (C) creating (D) respecting
   • 28. (A) solves (B) eliminates (C) poses (D) reduces
   • 29. (A) carelessly (B) rarely (C) responsibly (D) dangerously
   • 30. (A) unaware (B) accepting (C) ignorant (D) critical
   Answers & Explanations:
   26. (D) access - The collocation 'access information' is the most appropriate.
   27. (B) transcending - The internet goes beyond or 'transcends' physical barriers.
   28. (C) poses - The collocation 'poses a risk' means to present a danger.
   29. (C) responsibly - The sentence calls for careful usage.
   30. (D) critical - Being 'critical' of information means evaluating it carefully, which is necessary to combat misinformation.

7. Passage 7

   The human brain is an incredibly complex organ, __(31)__ for our thoughts, emotions, and actions. It contains billions of neurons that __(32)__ with each other through electrical signals. Despite decades of research, many __(33)__ of the brain still remain a mystery. Scientists are continuously working to __(34)__ its secrets. This knowledge is vital for __(35)__ neurological disorders.

   • 31. (A) irresponsible (B) responsible (C) optional (D) unrelated
   • 32. (A) divide (B) fight (C) communicate (D) hide
   • 33. (A) aspects (B) certainties (C) simplicities (D) solutions
   • 34. (A) create (B) hide (C) complicate (D) unravel
   • 35. (A) causing (B) ignoring (C) treating (D) worsening
   Answers & Explanations:
   31. (B) responsible - The brain is 'responsible for' our functions.
   32. (C) communicate - Neurons 'communicate' with each other.
   33. (A) aspects - 'Aspects' refers to the many different parts or functions of the brain.
   34. (D) unravel - To 'unravel secrets' is a common collocation for discovering hidden truths.
   35. (C) treating - The goal of the knowledge is to help 'treat' or cure disorders.

8. Passage 8

   Democracy is a system of government where the supreme power is __(36)__ in the people. A key __(37)__ of democracy is the holding of free and fair elections. It __(38)__ fundamental rights such as freedom of speech and expression. However, for a democracy to function __(39)__, citizens must be well-informed and actively __(40)__ in the political process.

   • 36. (A) vested (B) hidden (C) lost (D) removed
   • 37. (A) flaw (B) principle (C) problem (D) weakness
   • 38. (A) denies (B) restricts (C) guarantees (D) questions
   • 39. (A) poorly (B) slowly (C) effectively (D) rarely
   • 40. (A) participate (B) avoid (C) ignore (D) withdraw
   Answers & Explanations:
   36. (A) vested - The phrase 'power is vested in' is a standard legal and political term.
   37. (B) principle - A 'key principle' means a fundamental belief or rule.
   38. (C) guarantees - Democracies are meant to 'guarantee' rights.
   39. (C) effectively - The sentence describes the conditions for a democracy to work well or 'effectively'.
   40. (A) participate - Citizens need to take part or 'participate' in the process.

9. Passage 9

   The Industrial Revolution __(41)__ a major turning point in history. It marked a __(42)__ from agrarian societies to industrial and urban ones. New inventions, such as the steam engine, __(43)__ to mass production and the growth of factories. This period __(44)__ in profound social and economic changes. While it brought wealth and innovation, it also created new problems like overcrowding and poor working __(45)__.

   • 41. (A) prevented (B) represented (C) delayed (D) avoided
   • 42. (A) return (B) jump (C) shift (D) decline
   • 43. (A) led (B) stopped (C) hindered (D) failed
   • 44. (A) failed (B) resulted (C) prevented (D) ended
   • 45. (A) pleasures (B) conditions (C) opportunities (D) benefits
   Answers & Explanations:
   41. (B) represented - It 'represented' or symbolized a major turning point.
   42. (C) shift - A 'shift from...to...' correctly describes the transition between society types.
   43. (A) led - New inventions 'led to' or caused mass production.
   44. (B) resulted - The phrase is 'resulted in', meaning caused.
   45. (B) conditions - 'Working conditions' is the standard collocation for the environment in a workplace.

10. Passage 10

    The human immune system __(46)__ the body against diseases. It can __(47)__ and destroy millions of different microbes. A healthy lifestyle is __(48)__ for the proper functioning of the immune system. A balanced diet and regular exercise help __(49)__ it. Stress, on the other hand, can __(50)__ its effectiveness.

    • 46. (A) harms (B) attacks (C) defends (D) weakens
    • 47. (A) create (B) recognize (C) ignore (D) accept
    • 48. (A) trivial (B) harmful (C) essential (D) insignificant
    • 49. (A) weaken (B) damage (C) destroy (D) strengthen
    • 50. (A) improve (B) boost (C) suppress (D) enhance
    Answers & Explanations:
    46. (C) defends - The primary role of the immune system is to 'defend' the body.
    47. (B) recognize - The immune system must first 'recognize' harmful microbes.
    48. (C) essential - 'Essential' means absolutely necessary.
    49. (D) strengthen - Diet and exercise make the immune system stronger.
    50. (C) suppress - Stress can weaken or 'suppress' the immune system's effectiveness.

11. Passage 11

    Storytelling is an ancient art form used to __(51)__ and entertain audiences. __(52)__ narrative and vivid characters, a good story can __(53)__ a range of emotions in the listener. It is a powerful tool for teaching moral values and preserving cultural __(54)__. The __(55)__ of this art lies in its ability to connect people on a deep, emotional level.

    • 51. (A) bore (B) confuse (C) engage (D) distract
    • 52. (A) Despite (B) Without (C) Through (D) Against
    • 53. (A) evoke (B) erase (C) prevent (D) hide
    • 54. (A) problems (B) heritage (C) conflicts (D) expenses
    • 55. (A) failure (B) weakness (C) magic (D) issue
    Answers & Explanations:
    51. (C) engage - Storytelling aims to 'engage' or capture the audience's attention.
    52. (C) Through - The meaning is that stories use narrative and characters as a medium.
    53. (A) evoke - 'Evoke' means to bring a feeling or memory into the mind.
    54. (B) heritage - Stories are a key way to preserve cultural history or 'heritage'.
    55. (C) magic - 'Magic' is used here metaphorically to describe the powerful effect of storytelling.

12. Passage 12

    Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, offer a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. __(56)__ fossil fuels, which are finite, renewables are naturally replenished. By __(57)__ the power of the sun and wind, we can generate electricity with minimal environmental __(58)__. The main challenge is to __(59)__ the intermittent nature of these sources. The __(60)__ to a clean energy future depends on innovation in energy storage technologies.

    • 56. (A) Like (B) Similar (C) Unlike (D) As
    • 57. (A) creating (B) destroying (C) ignoring (D) harnessing
    • 58. (A) benefit (B) impact (C) advantage (D) help
    • 59. (A) accept (B) create (C) overcome (D) worsen
    • 60. (A) transition (B) return (C) decline (D) barrier
    Answers & Explanations:
    56. (C) Unlike - The sentence sets up a contrast between finite fossil fuels and renewables.
    57. (D) harnessing - 'Harnessing power' is the correct collocation for using a natural resource.
    58. (B) impact - Environmental 'impact' is a neutral term for effect, which fits the context.
    59. (C) overcome - One must 'overcome' a challenge.
    60. (A) transition - 'Transition' correctly describes the shift from one system to another.

13. Passage 13

    Getting enough quality sleep is __(61)__ for overall health. During sleep, the body works to repair muscles and __(62)__ memories. A lack of sleep can negatively __(63)__ cognitive functions like attention and decision-making. It can also weaken the immune system, making you more __(64)__ to illness. It is important to __(65)__ a regular sleep schedule.

    • 61. (A) trivial (B) unimportant (C) optional (D) vital
    • 62. (A) erase (B) forget (C) consolidate (D) damage
    • 63. (A) improve (B) enhance (C) affect (D) boost
    • 64. (A) resistant (B) immune (C) susceptible (D) strong
    • 65. (A) avoid (B) disrupt (C) maintain (D) ignore
    Answers & Explanations:
    61. (D) vital - 'Vital' means essential or of critical importance.
    62. (C) consolidate - Sleep helps to 'consolidate' memories, meaning to strengthen and organize them.
    63. (C) affect - 'Affect' is the verb meaning to influence or impact.
    64. (C) susceptible - A weakened immune system makes you more 'susceptible' or vulnerable to illness.
    65. (C) maintain - The collocation 'maintain a schedule' is correct.

14. Passage 14

    The Great Wall of China is not a single, continuous wall but a __(66)__ of fortifications. It was built __(67)__ several centuries to protect Chinese states and empires against raids. While it was once __(68)__ that the Wall is visible from the moon, this is a popular myth. Today, it is a __(69)__ of China's enduring strength and a popular tourist __(70)__.

    • 66. (A) system (B) line (C) piece (D) part
    • 67. (A) in (B) for (C) over (D) at
    • 68. (A) denied (B) questioned (C) claimed (D) proved
    • 69. (A) problem (B) weakness (C) failure (D) symbol
    • 70. (A) problem (B) hazard (C) attraction (D) issue
    Answers & Explanations:
    66. (A) system - 'System' best describes a complex network of fortifications.
    67. (C) over - 'Over' is used to denote a period of time during which an action took place.
    68. (C) claimed - The context of a 'popular myth' indicates a belief or claim that is not true.
    69. (D) symbol - The Wall is a 'symbol' of strength.
    70. (C) attraction - A 'tourist attraction' is the correct collocation.

15. Passage 15

    Effective leadership __(71)__ more than just giving orders. A true leader must __(72)__ and motivate their team. They need to communicate their vision __(73)__ and listen to feedback. Good leaders lead by __(74)__, setting high standards for themselves and others. This approach is __(75)__ for building a successful and cohesive team.

    • 71. (A) demands (B) requires (C) involves (D) wants
    • 72. (A) discourage (B) criticize (C) control (D) inspire
    • 73. (A) vaguely (B) rarely (C) clearly (D) dishonestly
    • 74. (A) force (B) fear (C) example (D) criticism
    • 75. (A) harmful (B) useless (C) irrelevant (D) crucial
    Answers & Explanations:
    71. (C) involves - 'Involves' means 'includes as a necessary part', which fits the context.
    72. (D) inspire - A key quality of a leader is to 'inspire' their team.
    73. (C) clearly - A vision must be communicated 'clearly' to be understood.
    74. (C) example - The idiom 'to lead by example' is the correct choice.
    75. (D) crucial - 'Crucial' means critically important.

16. Passage 16

    The digital age has __(76)__ transformed how we live and work. Information that was once hard to find is now instantly __(77)__ at our fingertips. While this has brought immense benefits, it also presents a significant __(78)__: information overload. Learning how to __(79)__ reliable sources from misinformation has become a __(80)__ skill for everyone.

    • 76. (A) slightly (B) rarely (C) profoundly (D) hardly
    • 77. (A) hidden (B) available (C) secret (D) lost
    • 78. (A) advantage (B) solution (C) benefit (D) challenge
    • 79. (A) combine (B) mix (C) distinguish (D) accept
    • 80. (A) useless (B) minor (C) optional (D) vital
    Answers & Explanations:
    76. (C) profoundly - 'Profoundly' means deeply or intensely, accurately describing the impact of the digital age.
    77. (B) available - The internet makes information readily 'available'.
    78. (D) challenge - 'Information overload' is presented as a problem or 'challenge'.
    79. (C) distinguish - One must learn to 'distinguish' or differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources.
    80. (D) vital - 'Vital' means essential, highlighting the importance of this new skill.

17. Passage 17

    The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928 was a __(81)__ point in the history of medicine. He __(82)__ that a mold called Penicillium had contaminated one of his experiments and was preventing the growth of bacteria. This __(83)__ observation led to the development of antibiotics, which have since __(84)__ countless lives. Fleming's work __(85)__ the way for modern medicine.

    • 81. (A) minor (B) turning (C) final (D) low
    • 82. (A) ignored (B) forgot (C) observed (D) hid
    • 83. (A) careless (B) accidental (C) intentional (D) useless
    • 84. (A) cost (B) endangered (C) saved (D) risked
    • 85. (A) blocked (B) closed (C) paved (D) destroyed
    Answers & Explanations:
    81. (B) turning - A 'turning point' is a time when a significant change occurs.
    82. (C) observed - As a scientist, Fleming would have 'observed' the results of his experiment.
    83. (B) accidental - The discovery was famously made by chance, so it was 'accidental'.
    84. (C) saved - Antibiotics are known for having 'saved' many lives.
    85. (C) paved - The idiom 'paved the way' means to create the conditions for something to happen.

18. Passage 18

    A free and independent press is __(86)__ to the health of a democracy. It __(87)__ the government accountable by reporting on its actions. This ensures __(88)__ and prevents corruption. An informed citizenry is better equipped to make sound decisions during elections. However, the press must also act __(89)__ and adhere to journalistic __(90)__.

    • 86. (A) irrelevant (B) detrimental (C) vital (D) optional
    • 87. (A) makes (B) holds (C) allows (D) frees
    • 88. (A) secrecy (B) confusion (C) transparency (D) chaos
    • 89. (A) irresponsibly (B) dishonestly (C) responsibly (D) carelessly
    • 90. (A) biases (B) rumors (C) opinions (D) ethics
    Answers & Explanations:
    86. (C) vital - 'Vital' means essential or critically important.
    87. (B) holds - The correct idiom is to 'hold someone accountable'.
    88. (C) transparency - Reporting on government actions leads to openness or 'transparency'.
    89. (C) responsibly - The word 'However' introduces a condition, which is that the press must act 'responsibly'.
    90. (D) ethics - 'Journalistic ethics' is the standard term for the moral principles of journalism.

19. Passage 19

    Motivation is the psychological process that __(91)__ and directs goal-oriented behaviors. It can stem __(92)__ two main sources: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation is the __(93)__ of an activity for its own sake, while extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards like money or praise. Understanding what __(94)__ an individual is key to success in both education and management. For long-term commitment, fostering __(95)__ motivation is generally more effective.

    • 91. (A) prevents (B) initiates (C) concludes (D) stops
    • 92. (A) at (B) for (C) with (D) from
    • 93. (A) dislike (B) fear (C) pursuit (D) avoidance
    • 94. (A) demotivates (B) drives (C) confuses (D) angers
    • 95. (A) external (B) temporary (C) intrinsic (D) negative
    Answers & Explanations:
    91. (B) initiates - Motivation 'initiates' or begins behaviors.
    92. (D) from - 'Stem from' is the correct phrasal verb meaning 'to originate from'.
    93. (C) pursuit - Intrinsic motivation involves the 'pursuit' or undertaking of an activity for enjoyment.
    94. (B) drives - The word 'drives' is a synonym for motivates.
    95. (C) intrinsic - The context suggests that internal or 'intrinsic' motivation is better for long-term commitment.

20. Passage 20

    Biodiversity, the __(96)__ of life on Earth, is essential for our planet's health. It __(97)__ us with clean air, water, and food. Human activities, however, are causing a __(98)__ decline in biodiversity, leading to an extinction crisis. Many species are __(99)__ with extinction due to habitat loss and pollution. It is our collective responsibility to __(100)__ and preserve the Earth's precious ecosystems.

    • 96. (A) similarity (B) lack (C) uniformity (D) variety
    • 97. (A) denies (B) deprives (C) provides (D) takes
    • 98. (A) slow (B) rapid (C) gradual (D) gentle
    • 99. (A) blessed (B) gifted (C) rewarded (D) threatened
    • 100. (A) destroy (B) pollute (C) ignore (D) protect
    Answers & Explanations:
    96. (D) variety - Biodiversity is defined as the 'variety' of life.
    97. (C) provides - The collocation is 'provides us with'.
    98. (B) rapid - The context of a 'crisis' suggests a fast or 'rapid' decline.
    99. (D) threatened - Species are 'threatened with' extinction.
    100. (D) protect - The sentence calls for a positive action to solve the problem, which is to 'protect'.