Sentence Completion

Complex Logic

Upper Level sentences may contain multiple clauses, embedded conditions, or academic language. Break the sentence into manageable parts.

Example: The philosopher's argument, while ______ in its assumptions, was nonetheless compelling in its conclusion.
"while" = contrast → assumptions are flawed/weak ↔ conclusion is compelling → flawed, tenuous, questionable

Nuanced Vocabulary

Multiple choices may seem plausible. Distinguish by degree and connotation:

• concerned → worried → alarmed → terrified (increasing intensity)
• frugal (careful/positive) vs miserly (excessive/negative)
• bold vs audacious vs reckless — choose based on the tone of the sentence.

Strategy

1. Identify structure words (although, since, because, despite).
2. Write a simple prediction for the blank.
3. Find answer choices that are synonyms of your prediction.
4. If two choices work grammatically, use degree/connotation to decide.