The National Defence Academy (NDA), Combined Defence Services (CDS), and Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) are examinations of paramount importance, demanding a comprehensive skill set from aspirants. Among the diverse topics covered in the English section, the Cloze Test emerges as a crucial element. This article aims to illuminate the importance of the Cloze Test topic in these competitive examinations, elucidating how a mastery of this linguistic skill can significantly elevate a candidate’s performance.
Democracy has its dangers, the greatest of which is that it may be the rule of ignorance. Citizens who are not ……1…… intelligent and educated are ……2…… to commit errors of judgement in the casting of votes. The best men may thus……3…… to get elected. Elections are usually a ……4…… of propaganda. Another criticism of democracy is that it is wanting ……5…… efficiency. For prompt and effective action, unity of action is ……6……. . In a multitude of minds, much ……7…… discussion takes place, whereas unity of control is needed for vigorous national life. This criticism, however, is not very ……8…… because in times of war the British Prime Minister usually……9……the power of a dictator. Another criticism of democracy in times of war is that secrecy in military affairs becomes difficult, if not ……10……, and that the opposition usually lowers the morale of the people by its condemnation of the actions of the cabinet.
Q1. (a) barely (b) sufficiently (c) highly (d) perfectly
Ans. (b)
Q2. (a) sure (b) deliberately (c) unlikely (d) likely
Ans. (d)
Q3. (a) fail (b) succeed (c) try (d) desire
Ans. (a)
Q4. (a) kind (b) process (c) matter (d) result
Ans. (c)
Q5. (a) of (b) for (c) at (d) in
Ans. (d)
Q6. (a) enough (b) dispensable (c) essential (d) superfluous
Ans. (c)
Q7. (a) profitable (b) unprofitable (c) detailed (d) exhaustive
Ans. (b)
Q8. (a) unfair (b) absurd (c) strong (d) convincing
Ans. (d)
Q9. (a) gains (b) wields (c) demands (d) misuses
Ans. (b)
Q10. (a) easy (b) probable (c) impossible (d) obscure
Ans. (c)
For more questions, check out NDA-CDS-AFCAT 1 2024 Exam English Live – Cloze Test – Class 1
- Assessing Language Proficiency:
The Cloze Test is a sophisticated assessment tool that evaluates candidates’ language proficiency by testing their ability to comprehend and fill in the blanks within a given passage. This section assesses not only grammatical accuracy but also the candidate’s understanding of contextual meanings, an essential skill for military professionals who often operate in dynamic and complex environments.
- Evaluation of Reading Comprehension:
Comprehensive reading comprehension is a vital skill for military officers. The Cloze Test requires candidates to understand the context of a passage and fill in the blanks with appropriate words. This exercise not only assesses their ability to recognize grammatically correct words but also their capacity to grasp the overall meaning of the text—a skill crucial for interpreting complex instructions and information.
- Testing Vocabulary in Context:
Military communication demands precision, and an extensive vocabulary is a valuable asset. The Cloze Test challenges candidates to select words that fit seamlessly into the context of a passage. This not only evaluates their knowledge of words but also their ability to use vocabulary in a way that aligns with the intended tone and meaning—a crucial skill for officers in leadership roles.
- Decision-Making Skills:
The Cloze Test often presents candidates with multiple choices for filling in the blanks, mirroring real-world situations where quick decision-making is essential. In military scenarios, officers must make swift and informed decisions. The Cloze Test, therefore, serves as a microcosm of this skill, preparing candidates for the decision-making challenges they may face in their roles.
- Adaptability and Quick Thinking:
Military environments are characterized by rapidly changing situations, requiring officers to adapt swiftly. The Cloze Test, with its timed nature and the need for quick decision-making, mirrors the demand for adaptability and quick thinking. A candidate proficient in the Cloze Test is better equipped to handle the unpredictable and make strategic decisions in real-time.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the significance of the Cloze Test in NDA, CDS, and AFCAT examinations extends beyond its role as a grammar exercise. It serves as a comprehensive evaluation of candidates’ language proficiency, reading comprehension, vocabulary usage, decision-making skills, and adaptability. Aspiring candidates should approach the study of Cloze Test with diligence, recognizing its pivotal role not only in securing points in the English section but also in preparing them for the linguistic and strategic demands of a successful career in the armed forces.
