Word precision - that is, using words for exactly what they mean - is an important skill for a writer. This is an exercise that will help improve your skill in this area. You will be shown a sentence and asked to select one of two words that should go in the sentence. (Hold the clicker down on the arrows on the right of the button to see your choices.) There are 15 sentences on this exercise. When you finish the exercise, follow the directions of your instructor. (If you exit or quit the file without saving and printing, you work will probably be deleted.)

1. She has ___________ books than he does.
less fewer

2. Mary works _________ with John.
well good

3. Jason named his pet __________ Mary Ann.
peacock peahen

4. Greg doesn't practice _______ he should.
as like

5. General Hartley ordered his men to fire the ______ .
cannon canon

6. The boy was able to ________ the kidnapper.
allude elude

7. "_________ there?" the child asked.
Who's Whose

8. The ___________ goal is to establish open lines of communication.
principle principal

9. "___________ the thought that counts," she said.
Its It's

10, The politician distributed _______ to shoppers.
fliers flyers

11. Julia Child, noted __________, will be airing a new show in April.
gourmand gourmet

12. The rain showers will continue to ____ through the weekend.
pore pour

13. The FCC is currently deciding whether a record industry _______ is needed.
censor censer

14. The committee is debating whether to spend the money ________ putting it in another fund.
verses versus

15. The inspector promised to keep him ______________ of the situation.
appraised apprised

Once you have finished this exercise, follow the directions of your instructor. If you quit or exit the file before saving or printing, you work will likley be deleted.

Answers and explanations