Mastering the PERT: A Closer Look at Sentence Completion

Preparing for the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) can be a bit like getting ready for a big match—nerves are involved, but so are strategies. One essential area you’ll encounter is sentence completion, particularly when it comes to choosing the right verb tense. Imagine this scenario: “Until it was actually mapped, only a few people ______ the true location of the tunnel.” Now, which word completes that sentence best? Let’s break it down together.

The Right Choice: “Knew”

The correct answer is "knew." That past tense verb perfectly captures the knowledge that existed before the tunnel's mapping—a snapshot of understanding frozen in time. It’s like knowing your favorite spot in a park before the fences went up. Only a handful were privy to that treasure, and once it got its map and became public, that knowledge transformed. Remember, context is key!

Tense Matters

Now, let’s examine why the other options fall short.

• "Know" suggests present knowledge. It would imply that people still have this awareness active now, which just doesn't fit here. We’re talking about a specific moment in the past.

• "Have known" indicates an ongoing action from the past to the present. Not what we need when we’re sure the knowledge was a fleeting secret.

• "Will know" hints at future understanding—so it feels completely misplaced given that we’re reflecting on historical knowledge.

Understanding the Context

The sentence’s past context is crucial for discerning which verb to use. Just like many tales of secret locations, the history can only be known to some until the place is finally revealed. Think about a mystery novel: the truth is often wrapped in layers of time. In our sentence, it’s all about that moment before revelation.

Tips for the PERT Sentence Completion

So how do you tackle questions like these on the PERT? Here are some tips that might just help:

1. Pay Attention to Clues: Look for context clues within the sentence that point to the time frame. Words like “until” and “actually mapped” are your friends.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice: Use sample questions to get familiar with different tenses and how they impact meaning. You’ll start to get a feel for what sounds right and why.

3. Read Aloud: Sometimes saying the sentence out loud can help you hear what makes sense. It’s amazing what you pick up when you listen to your own voice.

4. Think Back on Similar Sentences: If you encounter sentences that are structured similarly, reflect on their verbs. This will train your brain to recognize patterns, making it easier when you hit the test.

In Closing

The PERT is more than just an exam—it’s a journey. Each practice question uncovers new layers of understanding, much like unearthing hidden pathways in an old town. Don’t be afraid to get it wrong once or twice; that’s just part of the learning process. Engage with each question, enjoy the discovery, and soon you’ll navigate the test with confidence.

So, when faced with verb tenses and tricky sentences, remember the importance of context. Engage with the material and let that knowledge sink in. You’ve got this!