Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the most likely meaning of "reluctant" in: "He was reluctant to share his answer"?

eager
proud
unwilling (Correct answer)
confused

Correct answer: unwilling

"Reluctant" means hesitant or unwilling to do something.

Question 2: Which correction should be made to the sentence?

Delete the comma after World.
Insert a comma after built.
Insert a comma after Italy. (Correct answer)
Delete the comma after Rome.

Correct answer: Insert a comma after Italy.

Without the original sentence, the most probable reason for inserting a comma after "Italy" is to correctly punctuate a non-essential phrase or clause. If "Italy" is part of a geographical location that is further specified (e.g., "Rome, Italy, a city known for...") or if a non-restrictive clause follows it, a comma would be necessary to set off that additional information. This ensures proper grammatical separation of sentence elements.

Question 3: A city's population is predicted to rise by 7.5 percent next year. Which expression indicates the predicted population next year if p represents the current population?

1.75 p
1 + 0.075
1.075 p (Correct answer)
p + 0.075

Correct answer: 1.075 p

This response represents the correct expression that shows the expected population in the following year. A student who selects this response understands how the quantities in the expression are related in this problem context.

Question 4: A passage says a character 'raised an eyebrow' when told the news. This suggests the character felt:

Frightened
Skeptical or surprised (Correct answer)
Overjoyed
Bored

Correct answer: Skeptical or surprised

Raising an eyebrow is a common nonverbal cue indicating skepticism or surprise.

Question 5: Determine whether the underlined portion of the following statement is correct or needs to be revised.

yours against your opponent.
your strength with your opponent.
your opponent's strength against one's own.
your strength against your opponent's. (Correct answer)
your strength against your opponent.

Correct answer: your strength against your opponent's.

The correct answer, "your strength against your opponent's," maintains parallelism by comparing "your strength" to "your opponent's [strength]." The possessive apostrophe 's' correctly indicates that the comparison is to the opponent's strength, not the opponent themselves. This structure ensures a clear and grammatically parallel comparison between two comparable entities.

Question 6: If 5 pens cost $3.75, how much do 8 pens cost?

$5.25
$4.80
$6.00 (Correct answer)
$6.50

Correct answer: $6.00

Each pen costs $0.75, so 8 pens cost $6.00.

Question 7: An author includes a personal anecdote in a persuasive essay most likely to:

provide statistical proof
list a bibliography
connect emotionally with readers (Correct answer)
define key vocabulary

Correct answer: connect emotionally with readers

Personal anecdotes appeal to emotion and help readers relate to the argument.

Question 8: A circle has a radius of 6. What is its circumference? (Use π ≈ 3.14)

37.68 (Correct answer)
113.04
75.36
18.84

Correct answer: 37.68

Circumference = 2πr = 2 × 3.14 × 6 = 37.68.

Question 9: If a passage's conclusion contradicts its introduction, the passage likely has a problem with:

Organization and coherence (Correct answer)
Sentence length
Vocabulary
Dialogue

Correct answer: Organization and coherence

A contradiction between the introduction and conclusion shows the passage lacks logical flow and coherence.

Question 10: To correct a misplaced modifier, which sentence should be revised?

Sentence 1
Sentence 2 (Correct answer)
Sentence 3
Sentence 4

Correct answer: Sentence 2

Without the specific content of Sentence 2, it's impossible to provide the exact misplaced modifier. However, a sentence requires revision for a misplaced modifier when a descriptive phrase or clause is positioned in a way that it seems to modify the wrong noun or pronoun, creating an awkward or nonsensical meaning. The revision would involve moving the modifier closer to the word it is intended to describe, clarifying the sentence's meaning.

Question 11: Which transition word best connects: 'She studied every night. ___, she passed the exam.'

Although
Meanwhile
However
Consequently (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Consequently

'Consequently' signals that passing the exam was a direct result of studying every night.

Question 12: Which transition correctly shows contrast: 'He trained for months. ___, he finished last.'

As a result
Therefore
Furthermore
Nevertheless (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Nevertheless

'Nevertheless' signals that the outcome (finishing last) was unexpected given the preparation (training for months).

Question 13: Texas offers a middle school math tournament every year. Students must, however, score 92 on a total of six qualifying tests in order to be considered. Ava's first five examinations scores of 88, 91, 99, 86, and 92. What score must she achieve on her sixth test in order to qualify for the competition?

84
86
88
96 (Correct answer)
95

Correct answer: 96

We can solve this problem using the concept average. That is, the average of 6 tests is 92. Let "x" be the score of 6th test (88 + 91 + 99 + 86 + 92 + x)/6 = 92 (456 + x)/6 = 92 Multiply by 6 on both sides 456 + x = 92 (6) 456 + x = 552 Subtract by 456 on both sides 456 + x - 456 = 552 - 456 x = 96 Hence option (96) is correct.

Question 14: What is the main purpose of a topic sentence in a paragraph?

To provide a specific example
To conclude the entire essay
To cite a source
To state the paragraph's central idea (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To state the paragraph's central idea

A topic sentence introduces the main idea that the paragraph develops.

Question 15: Which revision eliminates the wordiness in: 'At this point in time, we are currently unable to proceed forward.'?

We cannot proceed. (Correct answer)
Currently, we are not able to proceed forward at this time.
At this time, we are currently unable to proceed.
At this point, we are unable to currently proceed forward.

Correct answer: We cannot proceed.

'We cannot proceed' eliminates all redundant phrases ('at this point in time,' 'currently,' and 'forward') to achieve maximum concision.

Question 16: The word 'subsequently' in a scrambled paragraph indicates:

An example follows
A definition follows
A contrasting idea follows
Something that happened after follows (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Something that happened after follows

'Subsequently' means afterward or following in time, indicating the next event in a sequence.

Question 17: How many 8 cm² tiles are required to cover a 6 cm by 24 cm floor?

13
22
18 (Correct answer)
9

Correct answer: 18

The area of the floor is: 6 cm × 24 cm = 144 cm² The number of tiles needed =144÷8=18

Question 18: A rectangle has a perimeter of 26 cm and a width of 5 cm. What is its length?

10 cm
8 cm (Correct answer)
6 cm
9 cm

Correct answer: 8 cm

Perimeter = 2(l + w): 26 = 2(l + 5), so l + 5 = 13, and l = 8 cm.

Question 19: Which sentence correctly uses an apostrophe for a plural possessive?

The students's projects were displayed.
The student's projects were displayed for everyone.
The students projects' were displayed.
The students' projects were displayed. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The students' projects were displayed.

For a plural noun ending in -s, the possessive apostrophe goes after the s.

Question 20: If x = 3 and y = -2, what is the value of x^2 - 2y?

11
13 (Correct answer)
5
9

Correct answer: 13

x^2 = 9 and -2y = -2(-2) = 4, so 9 + 4 = 13.

Question 21: What is the area of a circle with radius 5? (Use π ≈ 3.14)

314
31.4
15.7
78.5 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 78.5

Area = πr² = 3.14 × 5² = 3.14 × 25 = 78.5.

Question 22: Which is the odd one out: square, rectangle, rhombus, circle, parallelogram?

Circle (Correct answer)
Rhombus
Square
Rectangle

Correct answer: Circle

All others are quadrilaterals (four-sided polygons), but a circle has no sides.

Question 23: A store reduces prices by 20%, then reduces the new price by another 10%. What is the total percent reduction from the original?

30%
28% (Correct answer)
25%
32%

Correct answer: 28%

After 20% off: 0.80 of original; after 10% off that: 0.80 × 0.90 = 0.72; reduction = 28%.

Question 24: Which sentence uses context clues to help define 'arid'?

The arid desert was vast.
In the arid, bone-dry region, no rain had fallen in years. (Correct answer)
The arid zone was studied.
She crossed the arid land quickly.

Correct answer: In the arid, bone-dry region, no rain had fallen in years.

'Bone-dry' and 'no rain had fallen in years' are context clues that define 'arid' as extremely dry.

Question 25: 'In contrast' is used to signal:

A difference between two ideas (Correct answer)
A summary of the paragraph
A supporting example
A time sequence

Correct answer: A difference between two ideas

'In contrast' introduces an opposing or different idea compared to what was previously stated.

Question 26: Which transition best fits? "She practiced every day; ___, she won the competition."

however
nevertheless
consequently (Correct answer)
meanwhile

Correct answer: consequently

"Consequently" signals that winning was the result of daily practice.

Question 27: Which transition best shows contrast? "The plan looked perfect on paper; ___, it failed in practice."

similarly
therefore
moreover
however (Correct answer)

Correct answer: however

"However" signals a contrast between the perfect plan and its failure.

Question 28: Evaluate: 4 + 2 × (6 - 3)^2.

108
54
22 (Correct answer)
18

Correct answer: 22

Order of operations: (6-3)^2 = 9, then 2 × 9 = 18, plus 4 = 22.

Question 29: Which sentence would logically come FIRST in a paragraph about photosynthesis?

Plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose. (Correct answer)
As a result, oxygen is released into the air.
This glucose is then used by the plant for energy.
Chlorophyll in leaves absorbs sunlight energy.

Correct answer: Plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose.

The topic sentence introducing the process of photosynthesis should come first to establish the subject.

Question 30: How many x values does the function not equal 1? f(x) = (x - 3)/(x - 3)

3
23
0
infinitely many (Correct answer)
3

Correct answer: infinitely many

Since the numerator and denominator are the same, we always get the value 1 for f(x). So, the answer is infinitely many.

Question 31: Which inequality represents 'x is at least 7'?

x ≥ 7 (Correct answer)
x ≤ 7
x > 7
x < 7

Correct answer: x ≥ 7

'At least 7' means x can equal 7 or be greater, which is expressed as x ≥ 7.

Question 32: An author begins an essay with a surprising statistic. This technique most likely serves to:

capture the reader's attention (Correct answer)
summarize the conclusion
list the sources used
define a technical term

Correct answer: capture the reader's attention

A striking statistic is a hook used to engage readers at the start.

Question 33: Which version of the sentence uses parallel structure correctly?

She likes swimming, to run, and tennis.
She likes swimming, running, and playing tennis. (Correct answer)
She likes to swim, run, and playing tennis.
She likes to swim, running, and to play tennis.

Correct answer: She likes swimming, running, and playing tennis.

Option C uses the gerund form (swimming, running, playing) consistently for all three items, creating proper parallel structure.

Question 34: Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?

Exhausted from the game, the players rested on the bench.
Walking down the street, we saw an interesting mural.
After finishing her homework, Sara went to the park.
Having studied all night, the test seemed easy to Marcus. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Having studied all night, the test seemed easy to Marcus.

In option C, 'having studied all night' dangles because it modifies 'the test,' not Marcus — a test cannot study.

Question 35: If HOUSE is coded as IPVTF, how is DOOR coded?

EPPS (Correct answer)
DPPS
EPOS
EQQR

Correct answer: EPPS

Each letter is shifted one position forward in the alphabet: D→E, O→P, O→P, R→S = EPPS.

Question 36: A bicycle wheel has a diameter of 26 inches. How far does the bike travel in one full rotation of the wheel? (Use π ≈ 3.14)

52 in
40.82 in
163.28 in
81.64 in (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 81.64 in

Circumference = π × d = 3.14 × 26 = 81.64 inches per rotation.

Question 37: In this paragraph, which two revisions are required?

Sentence 2: Insert a comma after company. Sentence 4: Change remarketed to had remarketed.
Sentence 2: Insert a comma after company. Sentence 3: Change becomes to became. (Correct answer)
Sentence 1: Delete the comma after homes. Sentence 4: Change remarketed to had remarketed.
Sentence 1: Delete the comma after homes. Sentence 3: Change becomes to became.

Correct answer: Sentence 2: Insert a comma after company. Sentence 3: Change becomes to became.

Without the original paragraph, the specific reasons for these revisions are speculative. However, inserting a comma after "company" in Sentence 2 likely corrects a punctuation error, such as separating an introductory phrase or a non-essential clause from the main part of the sentence. Changing "becomes" to "became" in Sentence 3 suggests a verb tense correction, indicating that the action or state occurred in the past, aligning with the narrative's timeline. These two revisions address common grammatical and stylistic issues.

Question 38: A right triangle has legs of length 3 and 4. What is the hypotenuse?

8
7
5 (Correct answer)
6

Correct answer: 5

Using the Pythagorean theorem: 3² + 4² = 9 + 16 = 25, and √25 = 5.

Question 39: A passage states: 'The river carved its path through the canyon over millions of years.' This sentence is an example of which literary device?

Hyperbole
Personification (Correct answer)
Simile
Alliteration

Correct answer: Personification

Personification gives the river (a non-human thing) the human action of 'carving' a path.

Question 40: Which sentence is best suited to be a topic sentence for a paragraph about climate change?

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas.
Arctic ice melted at record rates in 2023.
Polar bears rely on sea ice for hunting.
Climate change poses serious threats to ecosystems worldwide. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Climate change poses serious threats to ecosystems worldwide.

A topic sentence states the main idea broadly; the others are specific supporting details.

Question 41: To correct sentence 3, which edit is required?

change should understand to should have understood
change was to is (Correct answer)
change are not allowed to had not been allowed
change needs to will need

Correct answer: change was to is

Without the original sentence 3, the most common reason to change "was" to "is" is to correct a verb tense inconsistency. If the sentence describes a current state, fact, or ongoing situation, the present tense "is" would be appropriate, whereas "was" would imply a past condition that is no longer true. This change ensures the verb tense aligns with the intended meaning and the surrounding text.

Question 42: If 4 people can paint a house in 6 days, how many days would 8 people take?

12 days
2 days
4 days
3 days (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 3 days

Using inverse proportion: 4 × 6 = 8 × d; d = 24 ÷ 8 = 3 days.

Question 43: Which expression represents 'five less than three times a number n'?

3(n − 5)
5n − 3
5 − 3n
3n − 5 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 3n − 5

'Three times a number' is 3n, and 'five less than' means subtract 5, giving 3n − 5.

Question 44: Two angles that add up to 90° are called:

Adjacent
Supplementary
Vertical
Complementary (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Complementary

Complementary angles sum to exactly 90°.

Question 45: Determine whether the underlined portion of the following statement is correct or needs to be revised.

Shocking and I will never forget it,
A shocking, indelible moment,
Shocked and indelible,
A shockingly indelible moment,
It was a shocking and indelible moment; (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It was a shocking and indelible moment;

The correct answer, "It was a shocking and indelible moment;", forms a complete independent clause with a clear subject ("It") and verb ("was"). The adjectives "shocking" and "indelible" are correctly used to describe the "moment," and the semicolon properly indicates that this clause is related to the following independent clause (implied by the semicolon). This structure avoids fragments and maintains grammatical integrity.

Question 46: If 5 more than twice a number equals 21, what is the number?

7
9
8 (Correct answer)
6

Correct answer: 8

Set up 2n + 5 = 21, subtract 5: 2n = 16, divide by 2: n = 8.

Question 47: Which sentence is free of misplaced modifiers?

Walking to school, a stray dog was seen by Maria.
A stray dog walking to school was seen by Maria.
Maria saw, walking to school, a stray dog.
Walking to school, Maria saw a stray dog. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Walking to school, Maria saw a stray dog.

The modifier "walking to school" correctly describes Maria, the subject right after it.

Question 48: Choose the word that best completes the sentence: "The scientist remained ___ despite the criticism, refusing to abandon her theory."

fragile
indifferent
resolute (Correct answer)
hesitant

Correct answer: resolute

"Resolute" means firmly determined, matching her refusal to give up.

Question 49: Which question best identifies the author's purpose in a persuasive passage about reducing plastic waste?

What year was plastic invented?
Why should readers change their plastic use habits? (Correct answer)
Where is the largest plastic recycling plant?
How does plastic harm ocean ecosystems?

Correct answer: Why should readers change their plastic use habits?

The author's purpose in a persuasive passage is to convince readers to take a specific action or adopt a viewpoint.

Question 50: If today is Wednesday, what day will it be in 10 days?

Monday
Saturday (Correct answer)
Friday
Sunday

Correct answer: Saturday

10 days after Wednesday: 10 mod 7 = 3, so three days after Wednesday is Saturday.

Question 51: In a passage, 'the evidence suggests' signals that the author is:

Retelling a historical event
Making an inference based on data (Correct answer)
Expressing a personal opinion
Stating an absolute fact

Correct answer: Making an inference based on data

'The evidence suggests' indicates the author is drawing a conclusion supported by data, not stating a proven fact.

Question 52: Determine whether the underlined portion of the following statement is correct or needs to be revised.

is a great way to make friends and
are a great way to make friends and (Correct answer)
will have been a great way to make friends and
is a great way to make friends however
will be a great way to make friends and

Correct answer: are a great way to make friends and

The correct answer, "are a great way to make friends and," uses the plural verb "are," which correctly agrees with an implied plural subject (e.g., "These activities"). Additionally, it uses the coordinating conjunction "and" to properly connect clauses or phrases, avoiding the common error of using "however" without proper punctuation to join independent clauses. This ensures grammatical correctness and smooth sentence flow.

Question 53: When an author presents only one side of an argument, this is called:

Descriptive writing
Biased writing (Correct answer)
Narrative writing
Objective writing

Correct answer: Biased writing

Biased writing presents only one perspective and may exclude or distort opposing views.

Question 54: A paragraph about climate change ends with this sentence: 'My favorite color is blue.' What is the PRIMARY problem with this sentence?

It is off-topic and disrupts paragraph unity. (Correct answer)
It contains a grammar error.
It is too short to be effective.
It uses passive voice incorrectly.

Correct answer: It is off-topic and disrupts paragraph unity.

The sentence is irrelevant to the topic of climate change, violating paragraph unity by introducing an unrelated idea.

Question 55: Which sentence has a grammar error that should be corrected?

sentence 2 (Correct answer)
sentence 1
sentence 3
sentence 4

Correct answer: sentence 2

Without the specific content of Sentence 2, it's impossible to pinpoint the exact grammar error. However, common grammar errors include subject-verb agreement issues, pronoun agreement errors, incorrect verb tense, misplaced modifiers, or improper punctuation (like a comma splice or run-on sentence). Identifying such an error in Sentence 2 would necessitate its revision to ensure grammatical correctness.

Question 56: A passage states: 'Unlike her cautious brother, Maya leaped at every opportunity.' What does this sentence establish?

Maya's brother is more successful
Maya is more risk-taking than her brother (Correct answer)
Maya and her brother have the same personality
Maya dislikes her brother

Correct answer: Maya is more risk-taking than her brother

The contrast 'Unlike her cautious brother' directly shows Maya is bolder and more willing to take risks.

Question 57: The word 'deteriorate' most nearly means:

To increase in value
To remain unchanged
To improve steadily
To get worse over time (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To get worse over time

'Deteriorate' means to become progressively worse or decline in quality.

Question 58: Simplify: (2x^3)(3x^4).

5x^12
6x^12
6x^7 (Correct answer)
5x^7

Correct answer: 6x^7

Multiply coefficients (6) and add exponents (3+4=7) to get 6x^7.

Question 59: At the start of sentence 5, which transition word or phrase should be used?

As a result,
Unfortunately, (Correct answer)
In contrast,
H) Primarily,

Correct answer: Unfortunately,

The transition word "Unfortunately" is the most appropriate choice because it signals that sentence 5 will introduce a negative or problematic aspect related to the preceding information. If the previous sentences discuss the benefits of something, "Unfortunately" would logically introduce a drawback, challenge, or a less-than-ideal reality, setting a contrasting tone for the upcoming statement.

Question 60: A rectangular garden is 12 meters long and 7 meters wide. What is its area?

38 m²
76 m²
84 m² (Correct answer)
42 m²

Correct answer: 84 m²

Area = length × width = 12 × 7 = 84 m².

Question 61: 'Moreover' signals that the next sentence will:

Provide a definition
Add additional supporting information (Correct answer)
Contradict the previous point
Introduce a new topic

Correct answer: Add additional supporting information

'Moreover' is an additive transition used to introduce additional evidence or support.

Question 62: A sentence reads: 'For example, bees pollinate flowers that produce one-third of our food supply.' This sentence most likely follows a sentence about:

The life cycle of bees
The importance of insects to agriculture (Correct answer)
Types of flowers
How honey is made

Correct answer: The importance of insects to agriculture

'For example' signals a supporting detail, and the example about bees fits a preceding claim about insects' importance to agriculture.

Question 63: The phrase 'on the other hand' in a passage signals:

A chronological sequence
A contrasting viewpoint (Correct answer)
A supporting example
A definition

Correct answer: A contrasting viewpoint

'On the other hand' is a transitional phrase used to introduce a contrasting or opposing idea.

Question 64: If one angle of a right triangle is 30°, what is the third angle?

45°
90°
30°
60° (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 60°

The three angles sum to 180°: 90° + 30° + x = 180°, so x = 60°.

Question 65: An author who uses the word 'unfortunately' is most likely expressing:

A factual statistic
A neutral observation
A sense of regret or disappointment (Correct answer)
Excitement about an outcome

Correct answer: A sense of regret or disappointment

'Unfortunately' is a word that expresses the author's regret or disappointment about an outcome.

Question 66: Which revision removes unnecessary wordiness? "Due to the fact that it rained, we stayed inside."

Because of the fact it rained, we stayed inside.
Because it rained, we stayed inside. (Correct answer)
We stayed inside due to the fact of raining.
Due to the rain fact, we stayed inside.

Correct answer: Because it rained, we stayed inside.

"Because" replaces the wordy phrase "due to the fact that" concisely.

Question 67: What is the area of a triangle with base 10 and height 6?

60
16
20
30 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 30

Area of a triangle = ½ × base × height = ½ × 10 × 6 = 30.

Question 68: The ratio of boys to girls in a class is 3:5. If there are 24 students, how many are boys?

9 (Correct answer)
8
12
15

Correct answer: 9

The ratio has 8 parts; each part is 3 students, so boys = 3 × 3 = 9.

Question 69: Rose and Kate are planning a weekend get-together somewhere between their 420-mile distances. Throughout her trip, Rose maintains a speed of 80 mph. What speed did Kate drive to reach their meeting site if they both left home at 10 a.m. and met at 1 p.m.?

75 mph
70 mph
65 mph
60 mph (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 60 mph

Kate drove 180 miles at 60 mph to reach the meeting place where Rose arrived after driving 240 miles at 80 mph.

Question 70: If a number is increased by 40% and the result is 84, what was the original number?

60 (Correct answer)
44
120
50

Correct answer: 60

1.4 × original = 84, so original = 84 / 1.4 = 60.

Question 71: On the line x+2y=4, which of the following points lies?

(1,2)
(− 2,3) (Correct answer)
(−3,4)
(−1,3)

Correct answer: (− 2,3)

𝑥+2𝑦=4. Plug in the values of 𝑥 and 𝑦 from choices provided. Then: A. (−3,4)𝑥+2𝑦=4(→)−3+2(4)=4(→)−3+8=4 (This is NOT true!) B. (−2,3)𝑥+2𝑦=4(→)−2+2(3)=4(→)−2+6=4 This is true! C. (1,2)𝑥+2𝑦=4(→)1+2(2)=4(→)1+4=4 (This is NOT true!) D. (−1,3)𝑥+2𝑦=4(→)−1+2(3)=4(→)−1+6=4 (This is NOT true!)

Question 72: To begin sentence 11, which transition should be added?

For that reason
Moreover (Correct answer)
Of course
In contrast

Correct answer: Moreover

The transition word "Moreover" is the most appropriate choice because it indicates that sentence 11 will add further information or another point that supports or elaborates on the preceding ideas. It signals an accumulation of evidence or arguments, which is typical when building a case for a specific topic. This transition ensures a smooth and logical flow of ideas within the paragraph.

Question 73: Which edit BEST improves the sentence: 'Being that it was raining, we cancelled our picnic.'?

It being raining, we cancelled our picnic.
Being it was raining, we cancelled our picnic.
Because of the fact that it was raining, we cancelled our picnic.
Since it was raining, we cancelled our picnic. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Since it was raining, we cancelled our picnic.

'Being that' is a non-standard phrase; replacing it with 'Since' creates a grammatically correct and concise subordinate clause.

Question 74: What is the slope of the line passing through (1, 2) and (4, 11)?

1/3
9
3 (Correct answer)
13

Correct answer: 3

Slope = (11 - 2)/(4 - 1) = 9/3 = 3.

Question 75: What is the equivalent expression of (7x – 5 ) – (3x – 2 )?

4x - 3 (Correct answer)
10x - 3
4x -7
10 - 7

Correct answer: 4x - 3

This response represents the correct equivalent expression. (6x - 5 ) - (3x - 2) = 7x - 3z - 5 - ( - 2) = 4x - 3

Question 76: What is the area of a rectangle with length 8 cm and width 5 cm?

26 cm²
40 cm² (Correct answer)
13 cm²
80 cm²

Correct answer: 40 cm²

Area of a rectangle = length × width = 8 × 5 = 40 cm².

Question 77: Which word is the best synonym for "abundant"?

fragile
hidden
scarce
plentiful (Correct answer)

Correct answer: plentiful

"Abundant" means existing in large amounts, the same as "plentiful."

Question 78: The longest side of a right triangle is called the:

Hypotenuse (Correct answer)
Median
Base
Leg

Correct answer: Hypotenuse

The hypotenuse is always the side opposite the right angle and is the longest side.

Question 79: Ms. Kelly's class has 28 pupils. In this class, there are 2 to 5 boys for every 5 girls. How many new boys must be added to the class in order for the boy-to-girl ratio to equal 1:2?

5
6
14
3
2 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 2

Number of students in the class = 28 Number of boys = (2/(2+5)) ⋅ 28 = (2/7) ⋅ 28 = 2(4) = 8 Number of girls = 5/(2+5) ⋅ 28 = (5/7) ⋅ 28 = 5(4) = 20 (8 + y) : (20 + y) = 1 : 2 (8 + y) / (20 + y) = 1/2 2(8 + y) = 1 (20 + y) 16 + 2y = 20 2y = 20 - 16 2y = 4 y = 2 Hence the number of students to be added is 2.

Question 80: What is the slope of the line y = 3x − 2?

3 (Correct answer)
2
−2
−3

Correct answer: 3

In slope-intercept form y = mx + b, the coefficient of x is the slope, so slope = 3.

Question 81: In organizing a scrambled paragraph, which type of sentence should generally come last?

A sentence giving a specific example
A sentence introducing the topic
A sentence summarizing or drawing a conclusion (Correct answer)
A sentence with 'first' or 'initially'

Correct answer: A sentence summarizing or drawing a conclusion

Concluding sentences wrap up the paragraph's ideas and are placed at the end.

Question 82: Which sentence corrects the faulty pronoun reference? "When Jake met Sam, he was nervous."

When he met Sam, Jake was nervous he.
When Jake met Sam, Jake was nervous. (Correct answer)
When Jake met him, he was nervous.
He was nervous when Jake met Sam he.

Correct answer: When Jake met Sam, Jake was nervous.

Replacing the ambiguous "he" with "Jake" makes it clear who was nervous.

Question 83: What comes next in the pattern: A, D, G, J, ___?

L
M (Correct answer)
K
N

Correct answer: M

Each letter skips two positions: A(1), D(4), G(7), J(10), M(13).

Question 84: A student writes a paragraph arguing that school lunch programs should be expanded. Which sentence would WEAKEN the argument?

Some schools have seen reduced absenteeism after improving lunch quality.
Students often prefer to eat off-campus when given the choice. (Correct answer)
Studies link better nutrition to improved student academic performance.
Many low-income students rely on school lunch as their main daily meal.

Correct answer: Students often prefer to eat off-campus when given the choice.

Students preferring off-campus eating suggests that expanding school lunch programs may not benefit those who would not use them, which weakens the argument.

Question 85: In a passage, an author writes that a character "clenched her jaw and said nothing." This detail most strongly suggests the character feels:

open joy
complete confusion
suppressed anger (Correct answer)
calm indifference

Correct answer: suppressed anger

A clenched jaw paired with silence implies the character is holding back anger.

Question 86: A store buys a shirt for $20 and sells it for $30. What is the percent markup?

40%
25%
33%
50% (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 50%

Markup = ($30 − $20) ÷ $20 × 100 = $10 ÷ $20 × 100 = 50%.

Question 87: Which sentence has an error in subject-verb agreement?

Both the cat and the dog were sleeping.
Each of the players has a uniform.
Neither the teacher nor the students were prepared.
The group of scientists publish their findings annually. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The group of scientists publish their findings annually.

'Group' is a singular collective noun that requires the singular verb 'publishes,' not the plural 'publish.'

Question 88: Last season, the Cougar team won 16 games. The Cougar team won 20 games this season. From last year to this year, what is the percentage increase in the number of games the Cougar team have won?

25% (Correct answer)
30%
125%
70%

Correct answer: 25%

This response represents the correct percent increase in the number of games the Cougar team won from last year to this year. 20/16 = 125/100 125 - 100 = 25

Question 89: The price of a $200 tool has been reduced by 15%. After a month, the tool is reduced by 15% further. Which of the following expressions can be used to calculate the tool's selling price?

(200)(0.70)
(200)–200(0.30)
(200)(0.85)(0.85) (Correct answer)
(200)(0.15)–(200)(0.15)

Correct answer: (200)(0.85)(0.85)

To find the discount, multiply the number by (100%–rate of discount). Therefore, for the first discount we get: (200)(100%–15%)=(200)(0.85)=170 For the next 15% discount: (200)(0.85)(0.85)

Question 90: The price of a stock rose from $50 to $65. What was the percent increase?

25%
23%
15%
30% (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 30%

Increase is $15; 15/50 = 0.30, or 30%.

Question 91: A student wants to add a sentence to support this claim: 'Regular exercise improves mental health.' Which sentence is the BEST supporting evidence?

Swimming is considered one of the best full-body workouts.
Many people enjoy going to the gym on weekends.
Exercise equipment can be expensive to purchase.
Studies show that aerobic activity reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Studies show that aerobic activity reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.

This sentence directly supports the claim by citing scientific studies linking aerobic exercise to reduced mental health symptoms.

Question 92: Which value of x satisfies x/3 + 2 = 5?

12
6
9 (Correct answer)
3

Correct answer: 9

Subtract 2 from both sides: x/3 = 3, multiply both sides by 3: x = 9.

Question 93: Which sentence should be deleted as irrelevant in a paragraph about photosynthesis? "(1) Plants make food using sunlight. (2) Chlorophyll captures light energy. (3) My cousin has a garden. (4) Carbon dioxide is absorbed through leaves."

Sentence 3 (Correct answer)
Sentence 1
Sentence 4
Sentence 2

Correct answer: Sentence 3

Sentence 3 is a personal aside unrelated to the process of photosynthesis.

Question 94: Tom has twice as many cards as Lisa. Together they have 90 cards. How many does Tom have?

45
50
30
60 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 60

Let Lisa = x, Tom = 2x; x + 2x = 90; 3x = 90; x = 30; Tom has 60.

Question 95: A square has an area of 81 square units. What is the length of one side?

9 (Correct answer)
18
40.5
8

Correct answer: 9

The side is the square root of 81, which is 9.

Question 96: In context, which word best replaces "big" in: "The decision had a big impact on the town."

significant (Correct answer)
tall
loud
heavy

Correct answer: significant

"Significant" precisely describes a large or important impact.

Question 97: A football squad had a budget of $20,000 for supplies. New balls cost $14,000 for the team. Each pair of new sports shoes costs $120. Which of the following inequities represents the team's ability to buy new shoes?

14,000𝑥 + 12,0 ≥ 20,000
20𝑥 + 14,000 ≥ 20,000
120𝑥 + 14,000 ≤ 20,000 (Correct answer)
14,000𝑥 +120 ≤ 20,000

Correct answer: 120𝑥 + 14,000 ≤ 20,000

The total budget is $20,000. The team already spent $14,000 on new balls. Each pair of new sports shoes costs $120, and 'x' represents the number of pairs of shoes. The total cost of shoes (120x) plus the cost of balls ($14,000) must be less than or equal to the total budget ($20,000), hence 120x + 14,000 ≤ 20,000.

Question 98: To best support the argument made in the passage, which sentence should come after sentence 6?

Schools tend to spend more resources teaching mathematics and the physical sciences than teaching the humanities.
Some educators avoid the topic altogether, therefore, many students are not studying the founding ideas of culture and society. (Correct answer)
As classrooms become more diverse, many teachers believe that they should teach only limited ideas about world religions.
Teachers should avoid the risk of introducing ideas or concepts that may lead to controversy.

Correct answer: Some educators avoid the topic altogether, therefore, many students are not studying the founding ideas of culture and society.

The correct answer, "Some educators avoid the topic altogether, therefore, many students are not studying the founding ideas of culture and society," logically follows and supports the argument. If sentence 6 discusses the hesitation to teach religion, this option directly presents the negative consequence of that hesitation: students missing crucial foundational knowledge. This strengthens the passage's overall point about the necessity of religious education.

Question 99: If a passage's main idea is about the importance of renewable energy, which detail best supports this?

Nuclear plants require cooling water
Coal was discovered in the 18th century
Solar panels reduce carbon emissions significantly (Correct answer)
Oil prices fluctuate with global markets

Correct answer: Solar panels reduce carbon emissions significantly

The detail about solar panels reducing carbon emissions directly supports the importance of renewable energy.

Question 100: Which inference is best supported if a passage says a student 'stared at the blank page for an hour'?

The student had finished the assignment
The student was struggling with writer's block (Correct answer)
The student was reading a novel
The student was sleeping

Correct answer: The student was struggling with writer's block

Staring at a blank page for an hour suggests difficulty starting or continuing a writing task, indicating writer's block.

Question 101: Maria earns $12 per hour. She works 6 hours on Monday and 8 hours on Tuesday. How much does she earn in total?

$144
$180
$156
$168 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $168

Total hours = 6 + 8 = 14; earnings = 14 × $12 = $168.

Question 102: A train travels at 75 mph for 2.5 hours. How far does it travel?

187.5 miles (Correct answer)
150 miles
185 miles
175 miles

Correct answer: 187.5 miles

Distance = speed × time = 75 × 2.5 = 187.5 miles.

Question 103: Which version corrects the run-on sentence? "The bell rang everyone rushed out."

The bell rang, and everyone rushed out. (Correct answer)
The bell, rang everyone rushed out.
The bell rang everyone rushed, out.
The bell rang everyone, rushed out.

Correct answer: The bell rang, and everyone rushed out.

A comma plus the conjunction "and" properly joins the two independent clauses.

Question 104: Identify the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement.

Each of the players has a uniform. (Correct answer)
Each of the players are having uniforms.
Each of the players have a uniform.
Each of the player have uniforms.

Correct answer: Each of the players has a uniform.

"Each" is singular and takes the singular verb "has."

Question 105: As demonstrated, the centers of two congruent circles are P and Q. What is the PXQ angle's measurement?

60° (Correct answer)
33°
52°
28°
70°

Correct answer: 60°

Here PX is the radius of the first circle, QX is the radius of the second circle. PQ is the distance between two centers. PX = PQ = QX Hence the required angle is 60°.

Question 106: A car travels 180 miles in 3 hours. At this rate, how far will it travel in 5 hours?

300 miles (Correct answer)
270 miles
360 miles
240 miles

Correct answer: 300 miles

The rate is 60 mph, so 60 × 5 = 300 miles.

Question 107: Larissa's father has a new job that requires him to travel to Albany on a weekly trips, therefore he's looking for a inexpensive reliable vehicle. Which correction should be made to this sentence?

insert a comma after position
insert a comma after reliable
insert a comma after inexpensive (Correct answer)
insert a comma after trips

Correct answer: insert a comma after inexpensive

The correct answer is to insert a comma after "inexpensive" because "inexpensive" and "reliable" are coordinate adjectives modifying "vehicle." Coordinate adjectives describe the same noun independently and should be separated by a comma. This ensures proper punctuation and clarity in the description of the vehicle.

Question 108: Jack has d dollars. He's got a third of Neil's money. Sean has $80, which is less than half of Jack's and Neil's total. How much money does Sean have in terms of d?

2d – 40
2d + 40
4d – 40
2d + 80
2d – 80 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 2d – 80

Jack has d dollars. Neil has 3d dollars Number of dollars that Sean has = (1/2)(d + 3d) - 80 = (1/2) 4d - 80 = 2d - 80 Hence the answer is 2d - 80.

Question 109: Choose the best place to add this sentence: "This habit improved his grades dramatically." "(1) Tom started studying earlier. (2) He reviewed notes each night. (3) He also asked his teachers questions."

It does not belong anywhere
After sentence 3, as a concluding statement (Correct answer)
Before sentence 1
Between sentences 1 and 2

Correct answer: After sentence 3, as a concluding statement

The sentence summarizes the result of all the habits, so it fits best at the end.

Question 110: Solve for x: x/4 = 3/2

4
12
8
6 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 6

Cross-multiply: 2x = 12, divide by 2: x = 6.

Question 111: In the following system of equations, what is the value of x? 2𝑥+5𝑦 = 11 4𝑥−2𝑦 = −14

1
-1
-2 (Correct answer)
4

Correct answer: -2

To solve this system of equations for x, we can use the elimination method. Multiply the first equation (2x + 5y = 11) by 2 to get 4x + 10y = 22. Now, subtract the second equation (4x - 2y = -14) from this new equation: (4x + 10y) - (4x - 2y) = 22 - (-14), which simplifies to 12y = 36, so y = 3. Substitute y = 3 into the first equation: 2x + 5(3) = 11, which becomes 2x + 15 = 11. Subtract 15 from both sides: 2x = -4. Finally, divide by 2 to find x = -2.

Question 112: Which sentence uses the semicolon correctly?

I went to the store; buying milk and eggs.
He was tired; however, he finished his homework. (Correct answer)
The dog barked; at the mail carrier.
She loved reading; and often visited the library.

Correct answer: He was tired; however, he finished his homework.

A semicolon correctly joins two independent clauses, especially when followed by a conjunctive adverb like 'however.'

Question 113: Where should a comma be added? "After the storm passed we went outside."

After the storm passed, we went outside. (Correct answer)
After, the storm passed we went outside.
After the storm passed we went, outside.
After the storm, passed we went outside.

Correct answer: After the storm passed, we went outside.

A comma follows an introductory dependent clause before the main clause.

Question 114: To best support the information offered in the passage, which conclusion statement should come after sentence 17?

Experts say that adding a Boston fern, a spider plant, or an aloe vera plant is a good place to start if you want to begin to incorporate nature into your home or office.
More people should consider bringing natural elements inside to improve general wellness and reverse some of the negative effects of an indoor-centered society. (Correct answer)
Because indoor plants absorb the carbon dioxide in our air and release the oxygen we need to breathe, they are vital to our wholeness and wellness.
As one study has confirmed, houseplants are a wise investment because they can remove almost 90 percent of the toxins in the air within the span of 24 hours

Correct answer: More people should consider bringing natural elements inside to improve general wellness and reverse some of the negative effects of an indoor-centered society.

The correct answer, "More people should consider bringing natural elements inside to improve general wellness and reverse some of the negative effects of an indoor-centered society," functions as an excellent concluding statement. It synthesizes the passage's main argument about the benefits of indoor nature and offers a clear call to action or recommendation, reinforcing the overall message and providing a strong sense of closure.

Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT)

The SHSAT is a standardized test used for admission to New York City's specialized high schools, assessing students in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Scores are competitive and determine eligibility for schools like Stuyvesant High School and Bronx Science.

114

Questions

180 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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