Cloze Test Practice for SSC, Bank & Railway Exams, Practice Questions

The cloze test is a vital component of the English section in many competitive exams. Whether you're preparing for SSC CGL, SBI Clerk, IBPS PO, or Railway Recruitment exams, mastering the cloze test in English can significantly boost your performance. This article covers the importance of cloze tests, provides expert tips, and offers cloze test practice with 30 questions categorized by exam type.

What is a Cloze Test in English?

A cloze test consists of a passage with certain words omitted. Candidates must fill in the blanks with appropriate words from a given list or based on context. These tests assess your understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and overall comprehension. The English Cloze test, which involves filling in missing words in a passage, is a crucial component of many competitive examinations like SSC, Bank, Railway, and other government job entrance tests and it is listed in every Bank Exam Syllabus. It's not just about vocabulary; it assesses your understanding of context, grammar, logical reasoning, and overall comprehension. Excelling in the Cloze test can significantly boost your score and improve your chances of success.

Why is the Cloze Test Important for Competitive Exams?

Recruitment bodies incorporate the Cloze test to gauge a candidate's functional English proficiency. It efficiently assesses multiple language skills simultaneously, providing a holistic view of your command over the language. They are essential for scoring well in the English section and improving reading and analytical skills. Cloze test is a part of almost all competitive exams, like

• Cloze test for SSC CGL: Frequently appears in Tier 1 and Tier 2 English sections.
• Cloze test for bank exam: A standard part of IBPS, SBI Clerk, and PO exams.
• Cloze test for railway exams: Common in RRB NTPC and Group D tests.

Types of Cloze Tests in Exams

The following types of cloze tests are generally seen in the examinations:

• Contextual Vocabulary: Focuses on the candidate's understanding of word usage in context.
• Grammar-Based: Tests knowledge of prepositions, articles, tenses, and parts of speech.
• Theme-Based Cloze: Passages that revolve around a specific topic (e.g., environment, economy)

Cloze Test Questions

To solidify your understanding and improve your speed and accuracy, consistent practice is key. Here are some practice questions covering various themes and difficulty levels:

Question 1:

The rapid advancement of technology has dramatically altered the way we live and work. Automation is becoming increasingly prevalent in various industries, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. (1) _______, this technological shift also raises concerns about job displacement and the need for workforce retraining. It is essential for individuals to (2) _______ new skills and adapt to the changing demands of the labor market. Education and continuous learning play a crucial (3) _______ in navigating this evolving landscape. Governments and organizations must also (4) _______ proactive measures to support workers in this transition and ensure a smooth (5) _______ to a future shaped by technology.

Options for Question 1:

1. (a) Therefore (b) Furthermore (c) However (d) Similarly
2. (a) acquire (b) lose (c) ignore (d) reject
3. (a) part (b) role (c) position (d) place
4. (a) deny (b) neglect (c) implement (d) postpone
5. (a) resistance (b) adaptation (c) decline (d) stagnation

Question 2:

Tourism can be a significant driver of economic growth for many countries. It generates revenue, creates employment opportunities, and fosters cultural exchange. (1) _______, unsustainable tourism practices can have detrimental effects on the environment and local communities. It is crucial to promote responsible tourism that minimizes negative impacts and maximizes benefits for all stakeholders. This involves (2) _______ natural resources, respecting local cultures, and ensuring that tourism activities are environmentally (3) _______. By adopting sustainable approaches, destinations can (4) _______ the long-term viability of their tourism industry and (5) _______ the unique assets that attract visitors in the first place.

Instructions for Question 2: Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word.

Question 3:

The importance of mental health has gained significant (1) _______ in recent years. It is now widely recognized that mental well-being is just as crucial as physical health. Stress, anxiety, and depression are common challenges that can (2) _______ individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Seeking help and support is a sign of strength, and there are various resources available to those who are (3) _______. Creating a supportive and understanding environment is essential for (4) _______ mental health and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. Open conversations and increased awareness can (5) _______ a positive change in how society views and addresses mental health.

Options for Question 3:

1. (a) ignorance (b) attention (c) neglect (d) disregard
2. (a) affect (b) effect (c) influence (d) control
3. (a) thriving (b) struggling (c) succeeding (d) flourishing
4. (a) hindering (b) promoting (c) ignoring (d) worsening
5. (a) prevent (b) discourage (c) facilitate (d) impede

Question 4:

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship, whether personal or professional. It involves not 1 only expressing oneself clearly but also actively (1) _______ to others. Misunderstandings can often arise from poor communication, leading to conflict and strained relationships. (2) _______ communication involves being mindful of one's body language, tone of voice, and the words used. It also requires empathy and the ability to see things from another person's (3) _______. By developing strong communication skills, individuals can build stronger connections, resolve conflicts more effectively, and foster a more (4) _______ and collaborative environment. Continuous effort and self-awareness are (5) _______ in honing these essential skills.  

Instructions for Question 4: Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word.

Question 5:

The preservation of cultural heritage is vital for maintaining a sense of identity and continuity within a society. Historical sites, artifacts, and traditions provide a (1) _______ to the past and offer valuable insights into the experiences and achievements of previous generations. Efforts to (2) _______ and protect cultural heritage are essential for future generations to learn from and appreciate their roots. This often involves careful restoration, conservation, and the (3) _______ of knowledge about these cultural assets. Sustainable tourism can also play a (4) _______ role in supporting preservation efforts by generating revenue and raising awareness. (5) _______ cultural heritage enriches our understanding of human history and fosters a sense of belonging.

Options for Question 5:

1. (a) disconnection (b) link (c) separation (d) detachment
2. (a) destroy (b) neglect (c) preserve (d) abandon
3. (a) suppression (b) dissemination (c) concealment (d) obstruction
4. (a) minor (b) insignificant (c) crucial (d) detrimental
5. (a) Ignoring (b) Protecting (c) Damaging (d) Forgetting

Answers to Question 1:

1. (c) However
2. (a) acquire
3. (b) role
4. (c) implement
5. (b) adaptation

Answers to Question 2:

1. However
2. conserving
3. sustainable
4. ensure/maintain/preserve
5. protect/cherish/safeguard

Answers to Question 3:

1. (b) attention
2. (a) affect
3. (b) struggling
4. (b) promoting
5. (c) facilitate

Answers to Question 4:

1. listening
2. Effective
3. perspective/viewpoint
4. harmonious/positive/productive
5. essential/crucial/important

Answers to Question 5:

1. (b) link
2. (c) preserve
3. (b) dissemination
4. (c) crucial
5. Protecting

Cloze Test for Bank Exams

If you are preparing for Banking Exams, you can practice cloze test for Bank exam questions to understand cloze test.

Passage 1:

The banking sector plays a pivotal (1) _______ in the economic development of any nation. It acts as a conduit (2) _______ mobilizing savings and channeling them into productive investments. A robust and well-regulated banking system is (3) _______ for maintaining financial stability and fostering economic growth. Recent years have (4) _______ significant changes in the banking landscape, driven by technological advancements and evolving customer expectations. The rise of digital banking has (5) _______ a paradigm shift, offering greater convenience and accessibility. However, this digital transformation also (6) _______ new challenges related to cybersecurity and data privacy. Banks are increasingly (7) _______ on leveraging technology to enhance their services and remain competitive. Regulatory bodies are also playing a crucial (8) _______ in adapting to these changes and ensuring the safety and soundness of the financial system. The focus is on promoting innovation while (9) _______ risks and protecting consumer interests. Ultimately, a resilient and customer-centric banking sector is (10) _______ for sustainable economic progress.

Options:

1. (a) role (b) part (c) place (d) position
2. (a) for (b) in (c) of (d) through
3. (a) vital (b) trivial (c) unnecessary (d) optional
4. (a) witnessed (b) ignored (c) overlooked (d) denied
5. (a) resulted (b) caused (c) triggered (d) ushered
6. (a) presents (b) ignores (c) solves (d) diminishes
7. (a) relying (b) neglecting (c) avoiding (d) hesitating
8. (a) role (b) absence (c) insignificance (d) disregard
9. (a) amplifying (b) mitigating (c) ignoring (d) escalating
10. (a) detrimental (b) essential (c) irrelevant (d) counterproductive

Answers:

1. (a) role
2. (d) through
3. (a) vital
4. (a) witnessed
5. (d) ushered
6. (a) presents
7. (a) relying
8. (a) role
9. (b) mitigating
10. (b) essential

Passage 2:

The concept of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) is a significant (1) _______ for the banking industry. NPAs (2) _______ to loans and advances where the borrower has stopped making interest or principal repayments for a specified period. A high level of NPAs can (3) _______ the profitability and stability of banks, as it reduces their income and increases the risk of losses. Various factors can (4) _______ to the accumulation of NPAs, including economic downturns, poor lending practices, and willful defaults. Banks need to have robust mechanisms in (5) _______ for the early identification and management of potential NPAs. Measures such as loan restructuring, recovery drives, and stricter appraisal processes are (6) _______ to address this issue. Regulatory authorities also play a crucial (7) _______ in setting guidelines and monitoring the NPA levels of banks. Effective management of NPAs is (8) _______ for maintaining a healthy financial system and ensuring the smooth flow of credit in the economy. Addressing this challenge requires a multi-pronged (9) _______ involving proactive measures by banks, supportive regulatory policies, and a conducive economic (10) _______.

Instructions: Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word.

Answers:

1. concern/challenge/issue
2. refer
3. impact/affect/undermine
4. contribute/lead
5. place
6. essential/necessary/important
7. role
8. crucial/vital/important
9. approach/strategy
10. environment/climate

Cloze Test for SSC Exams

Cloze Test is an important section in SSC Exams also. So make sure to practice Cloze Test for SSC Exam, below are sample:

Passage 1:

India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, each with its own unique charm and (1) _______. From the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the tropical backwaters of Kerala in the south, the country offers a breathtaking (2) _______ of landscapes. The rich history of India is (3) _______ in its ancient monuments, majestic forts, and intricate temples. These structures stand as silent (4) _______ to the empires and dynasties that have shaped the nation over centuries. The vibrant festivals, classical dances, and traditional music (5) _______ the artistic and cultural heritage of India. The warmth and hospitality of the Indian people are renowned (6) _______ the world, making visitors feel welcome and at home. However, despite its progress, India still (7) _______ significant challenges such as poverty and inequality. Efforts are continuously being made to (8) _______ these issues and ensure inclusive growth for all its citizens. The spirit of unity in diversity is a defining (9) _______ of India, where people of different faiths and backgrounds coexist (10) _______.

Options:

1. (a) beauty (b) ugliness (c) similarity (d) monotony
2. (a) similarity (b) variety (c) uniformity (d) dullness
3. (a) hidden (b) evident (c) obscure (d) lost
4. (a) evidence (b) witnesses (c) proofs (d) testimonies
5. (a) reflect (b) conceal (c) distort (d) suppress
6. (a) across (b) within (c) beneath (d) beyond
7. (a) celebrates (b) faces (c) ignores (d) overcomes
8. (a) worsen (b) alleviate (c) neglect (d) exacerbate
9. (a) characteristic (b) deviation (c) anomaly (d) exception
10. (a) separately (b) harmoniously (c) distantly (d) rarely

Answers:

1. (a) beauty
2. (b) variety
3. (b) evident
4. (b) witnesses
5. (a) reflect
6. (a) across
7. (b) faces
8. (b) alleviate
9. (a) characteristic
10. (b) harmoniously

Passage 2:

The Indian economy has been on a steady growth (1) _______ over the past few decades. Various factors, including liberalization and globalization, have (2) _______ to this progress. The agricultural sector, despite facing challenges, continues to be a significant (3) _______ to the nation's economy. The industrial sector has also witnessed substantial expansion, (4) _______ by both domestic and foreign investments. The service sector, particularly in areas like information technology and outsourcing, has emerged as a major (5) _______ of economic growth and employment generation. However, issues such as infrastructure bottlenecks and bureaucratic hurdles still (6) _______ as impediments to faster development. The government has been (7) _______ various policy initiatives to address these challenges and create a more conducive environment for business and investment. Sustainable and inclusive growth remains a key (8) _______ for the Indian economy. Efforts are being made to ensure that the benefits of economic progress (9) _______ all sections of society. Embracing innovation and technological advancements will be (10) _______ for maintaining the growth momentum in the years to come.

Instructions: Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word.

Answers:

1. trajectory/path/course
2. contributed/led
3. contributor
4. fueled/driven
5. driver/engine
6. persist/remain/exist
7. implementing/undertaking/launching
8. priority/focus/objective
9. reach/benefit
10. crucial/vital/important

Cloze Test for Railway Exams

Railway conducts a number of exams all throughout the year. So make sure to practice cloze test for railway exams below.

Passage 1:

The Indian Railways is one of the largest and busiest rail networks in the world, serving as a crucial (1) _______ of transportation for millions of people daily. It plays a vital (2) _______ in connecting different parts of the vast country, facilitating trade, commerce, and tourism. Over the years, the Railways has undergone significant modernization and (3) _______ to enhance safety, speed, and efficiency. New technologies are being (4) _______ to upgrade infrastructure and improve passenger amenities. The expansion of the railway network to remote and underserved areas is a key (5) _______ to promote regional development and connectivity. Safety remains a paramount (6) _______, and continuous efforts are being made to prevent accidents and ensure the security of passengers. Environmental sustainability is also gaining (7) _______, with initiatives focused on reducing carbon emissions and promoting green practices. The dedicated workforce of the Indian Railways is (8) _______ in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of this massive network. Challenges such as overcrowding and the need for further infrastructure development still (9) _______ attention. The Indian Railways continues to be a lifeline for the nation, playing an indispensable (10) _______ in its progress and integration.

Options:

1. (a) hindrance (b) means (c) obstacle (d) barrier
2. (a) insignificance (b) role (c) disadvantage (d) limitation
3. (a) deterioration (b) stagnation (c) transformation (d) regression
4. (a) rejected (b) ignored (c) implemented (d) discarded
5. (a) objective (b) setback (c) disadvantage (d) failure
6. (a) concern (b) negligence (c) indifference (d) disregard
7. (a) importance (b) irrelevance (c) decline (d) insignificance
8. (a) instrumental (b) obstructive (c) negligent (d) indifferent
9. (a) demand (b) evade (c) resist (d) ignore
10. (a) part (b) absence (c) insignificance (d) detachment

Answers:

1. (b) means
2. (b) role
3. (c) transformation
4. (c) implemented
5. (a) objective
6. (a) concern
7. (a) importance
8. (a) instrumental
9. (a) demand
10. (a) part

Passage 2:

Ensuring passenger safety and comfort is of utmost (1) _______ for the Railway authorities. Various measures are taken to (2) _______ accidents and provide a secure travel experience. Regular maintenance and inspection of tracks and rolling stock are (3) _______ to prevent any technical glitches. Modern signaling systems and safety technologies are being (4) _______ to enhance operational safety. The provision of clean and hygienic facilities at railway stations is also given high (5) _______. Efforts are continuously made to improve the punctuality of trains and provide passengers with timely information about train schedules and delays. Addressing passenger grievances and ensuring a responsive customer service mechanism are key (6) _______ of the Railway's operational strategy. Initiatives such as the introduction of new and modern coaches aim to (7) _______ the overall travel experience. Crowd management at busy stations is another area that receives significant (8) _______. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) plays a crucial (9) _______ in maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of passengers and railway property. Continuous improvement and a focus on passenger needs are (10) _______ for the Indian Railways to maintain its position as a preferred mode of transport.

Instructions: Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word.

Answers:

1. importance/priority
2. prevent/minimize/reduce
3. essential/crucial/vital
4. adopted/implemented/installed
5. priority/importance
6. aspects/elements/components
7. enhance/improve/elevate
8. attention/focus
9. role
10. essential/crucial/important

Where to Practice Cloze Tests?

• Following these examples, if you want to practice more questions for cloze test, use the following resources:
  Engage with Online Coaching Classes: Participate in comprehensive online coaching classes provided by Oliveboard. These sessions offer structured learning, expert guidance, and strategies to tackle various exam sections, including the Cloze test.
• Practice with Mock Tests Series: Utilize the realistic mock tests offered by Oliveboard. These tests simulate the actual exam environment, allowing you to assess your time management and accuracy across all sections, including the English language and specifically the Cloze test.
• Analyze Previous Year Papers: Review previous year papers available on Oliveboard. This practice will familiarize you with the exam pattern, the types of Cloze test questions asked, and the overall difficulty level you can expect.

By strategically integrating Oliveboard's online coaching with consistent practice through their mock tests and analysis of previous year papers, you can build a robust preparation strategy for your competitive exams.

Tips to Master Cloze Test for Government Exams

If you want to score full marks in cloze test and master it, then follow these tips:

• Read First: Understand the passage's main idea and tone before filling blanks. This gives you a general context.
• Context is Key: Don't look at blanks alone. See how nearby words and sentences provide clues about the missing word's role and meaning.
• Grammar Matters: Check the sentence structure. Identify the needed part of speech and ensure subject-verb agreement and correct tenses.
• Meaning and Words: Think about words that fit the sentence's meaning and the overall passage context. Rule out options that don't make sense.
• Find the Flow: Notice transition words like 'but' or 'because'. They show connections between ideas and guide your word choice.
• Word Pairs Help: Recognize common word combinations (collocations) and idioms. This can quickly lead you to the correct answer.
• Eliminate Wrong: If you have choices, get rid of the clearly incorrect ones first. This makes finding the right answer easier.
• Review Your Work: After filling all blanks, read the whole passage again. Ensure it sounds logical and grammatically correct.