This is a commonly asked topic in the English section of exams like SSC CGL. These questions test your grammar, vocabulary, and sentence understanding. You’ll be given a sentence or paragraph with a missing word or phrase, and you must choose the correct option that fits best. Since they’re not opinion-based, answering them correctly depends on your knowledge of language rules. With regular practice, this topic becomes easy to score.
What is Fill in the Blanks?
Fill in the Blanks, also known as Sentence Completion, is a type of question where a sentence is given with one or more missing words. Candidates must choose the correct word or set of words from the given options to complete the sentence meaningfully and grammatically. This tests your understanding of sentence structure, grammar, and vocabulary.
Fill in the Blanks SSC CGL: Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing for Fill in the Blanks questions in SSC CGL? This guide will help you master the basics and apply the right techniques to score better in the English section.
1. Read the Sentence Carefully
Start by reading the sentence slowly and carefully. Understand its overall meaning and tone. Ask yourself: What is the sentence trying to say? This will help you figure out what kind of word fits best whether it’s positive or negative, a noun, verb, or phrase.
2. Guess the Word Before Looking at Options
Once you’ve understood the context, try filling in the blank using your own word before checking the given options. This helps you build a mental reference and prevents confusion caused by similar-sounding or tricky options.
3. Use Context Clues
Pay attention to clues within the sentence. Words like but, although, because, or articles like a/an/the give strong hints about what kind of word is needed. For example, if the blank follows “an”, the word should begin with a vowel sound.
4. Match with the Best Option
Now look at the options provided. Compare them with your guessed word. Choose the one that best matches the context and fits the grammar of the sentence.
5. Watch for Grammar Rules
Always keep grammar in mind. Tense, subject-verb agreement, and articles can help you eliminate wrong choices. A grammatically incorrect option is never the right answer.
6. Re-read the Sentence with Your Chosen Word
Once you’ve placed your selected word in the blank, re-read the full sentence. If it sounds meaningful and grammatically correct, your answer is most likely right.
7. Use Hit and Trial if Confused
If you’re stuck between two or more options, try placing each one in the blank and read the sentence aloud. The word that makes the sentence flow naturally is your answer.
Fill in the Blanks SSC CGL – Do’s and Don’ts
To do well in the Fill in the Blanks questions in SSC CGL, you need both good grammar and the right approach. Here are some basic tips to help you solve these questions better.
Do’s:
- Read newspapers, books, or articles regularly and notice how sentences are formed.
- Improve your vocabulary and revise grammar rules often.
- Learn common idioms, phrases, synonyms, and antonyms every day.
- Practice making complete sentences on your own.
- Solve previous years’ Fill in the Blanks questions to understand the exam pattern.
- Take SSC CGL mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Don’ts:
- Don’t waste too much time on a single question. If it’s confusing, move on and come back later.
- Don’t change the meaning of the original sentence when picking your answer.
- Don’t check the options first. Try to guess the word by understanding the sentence first.
- Don’t overthink the question. Most answers are based on simple logic or grammar.
Fill in the Blanks Practice Questions
Below are sample questions to help you understand how ‘Fill in the Blanks’ questions are framed in the SSC CGL exam. Try solving them before checking the correct answers at the end.
Single Blank:
Q1. The noise of the drum beats _______ and frightened the tiger.
Options:
A. Perplexed
B. Prevented
C. Pertained
D. Persisted
Correct Answer: D. Persisted
Explanation: “Persisted” fits best because it means the sound continued, which makes sense with the phrase “frightened the tiger.”
Multiple Blanks:
Q2. The Buddhist Lamas believe that the sheer belief in the presence of god will release a man from a _______ approach towards life, and this liberation will help him achieve inner_______.
Options:
A. Materialistic, peace
B. Thrifty, discord
C. Primitive, fire
D. None of the above
Correct Answer: A. Materialistic, peace
Explanation: The sentence talks about a spiritual release and finding inner calm. “Materialistic” and “peace” are the most logical choices in this context.
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Key Takeaways
Check out the major key takeaways here:
- Question Type Focus: These questions assess your grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and understanding of contextual meaning.
- Common Patterns:
- Vocabulary-based blanks
- Phrasal verbs and idiomatic expressions
- Prepositions and conjunctions
- Grammar-specific gaps like tenses and subject-verb agreement
- Preparation Strategy:
- Read the full sentence carefully before checking options.
- Try to guess the missing word logically before viewing choices.
- Eliminate options that are grammatically or contextually incorrect.
- Focus on transitional or clue words (e.g., although, therefore, but).
- Study Tips:
- Improve your vocabulary through consistent reading (editorials, books).
- Practice with previous year questions to identify recurring patterns.
- Use flashcards to remember key phrases, idioms, and phrasal verbs.
- Regularly revise basic grammar rules and sentence structures.
- Exam Strategy:
- Attempt easy blanks first to save time.
- Re-read the sentence after inserting the word to check if it flows naturally.
- Avoid overthinking; most correct answers follow logical sentence construction.
- Do not rely on intuition alone—match grammar and tone carefully.
- Consistency is Key:
- Daily practice helps build accuracy and speed.
- Take mock tests to simulate exam conditions and manage time effectively.
Frequently Asked Question:
Ans. It tests your ability to choose the right word or phrase to complete a sentence meaningfully.
Ans. Focus on grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and commonly used phrases.
Ans. Read the sentence carefully, guess the word first, and then match it with the options.
Ans. Avoid grammatical mismatches, overlooking context, and guessing blindly.
Ans. It varies, but 4–6 questions are typically asked, carrying 2 marks each in Tier 1.
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