16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsMediumConsistent verb tense in a narrative

Standard English Conventions practice question

The guide unlocked the gate, checked the tide table, and ____ the group down onto the causeway.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

  1. A. ledCorrect
  2. B. leads
  3. C. is leading
  4. D. will lead

Answer: A. led

'Unlocked … checked … led': all simple past.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. leads
'Leads' shifts to present.
C. is leading
'Is leading' shifts to present.
D. will lead
'Will lead' shifts to future.

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