CLOZE TEST - Preparation Tips, Types, Examples

Cloze test is a common type of question that is frequently used in Indian government exams. In a cloze test, a passage is presented with certain words removed, and the candidate is asked to fill in the missing words from a given set of options.

Cloze tests are used to assess a candidate's ability to comprehend written English and their vocabulary skills. They may be included in exams such as the Bank PO exam, SSC CGL exam, UPSC Civil Services exam, and others.

Understanding the CLOZE Test Section

The cloze test section is a common section in many competitive exams and is designed to test a candidate's comprehension and language skills. In this section, a passage is given with certain words removed, and the candidate is asked to fill in the missing words from a given set of options. The main aim of the cloze test section is to test a candidate's ability to understand the passage, use contextual clues to fill in the missing words, and use their vocabulary and grammar skills to choose the correct option.

The passage in a cloze test can cover a wide range of topics, including current affairs, science, technology, history, and social issues. Therefore, it is important to have a good grasp of the English language, including grammar and vocabulary, to perform well in this section.

Different Types of Question on Cloze Test

The pattern on which questions are asked in cloze tests may vary depending on the exam and the organization conducting it. However, in general, the following are the common patterns on which cloze test questions are asked:

Type 1: Basic Fill in the Blanks Format

In this type of question, a sentence or a paragraph is given with one or more missing words, and the task is to fill in the blanks with appropriate words from the options provided. The words may be grammatical, semantic, or contextual in nature.

Here are some tips for answering basic fill in the blank's questions:

1. Read the entire sentence/paragraph first to get an idea of the context and meaning.
   
   
2. Look for clues within the sentence/paragraph, such as nearby words or phrases, to help you select the correct word from the options provided.
   
   
3. Check the grammar and syntax of the sentence/paragraph to ensure that the word you select fits correctly into the structure.
   
   
4. Check that the word you select makes sense in the context of the sentence/paragraph.
   

TYPE 2: Replacing Words Format

In this type of question, a sentence or a paragraph is given with certain words or phrases replaced by a blank. The task is to select the appropriate word or phrase from the options provided to fill in the blank and complete the sentence or paragraph.

Here are some tips for answering replacing words questions:

1. Read the sentence/paragraph carefully to understand the meaning and context.
   
   
2. Look for clues within the sentence/paragraph, such as nearby words or phrases, to help you select the correct word or phrase from the options provided.
   
   
3. Check the grammar and syntax of the sentence/paragraph to ensure that the word or phrase you select fits correctly into the structure.
   
   
4. Check that the word or phrase you select makes sense in the context of the sentence/paragraph.
   

Improving CLOZE TEST Skills

Cloze tests are a type of language assessment that involves removing words from a text and asking the reader to fill in the blanks with the correct words. Improving your cloze test skills can be a valuable way to improve your overall language proficiency. Here are some tips to help you improve your cloze test skills:

1. Expand your vocabulary: The more words you know, the better you will be able to fill in the blanks in a cloze test. To expand your vocabulary, read widely and make a note of any words you don't know. Look up the meanings of these words and try to use them in your own writing and speech.
   
   
2. Improve your grammar: Cloze tests often involve using the correct tense or part of speech. To improve your grammar skills, study grammar rules and practice using them in your own writing and speech.
   
   
3. Practice cloze tests: Practice makes perfect, so look for opportunities to take cloze tests. You can find practice tests online or in language textbooks. Set aside some time each day to practice and track your progress.
   
   
4. Read extensively: Reading extensively can help you to become familiar with different writing styles and sentence structures. This will make it easier for you to fill in the blanks in a cloze test.
   
   
5. Pay attention to context: Cloze tests often rely on context to help you fill in the blanks. Pay close attention to the words and phrases that come before and after the blank space to help you choose the correct word.
   
   
6. Take your time: Don't rush through a cloze test. Take your time and read the entire passage carefully before filling in the blanks. Double-check your answers to make sure they make sense.
   
   
7. Seek feedback: Ask a language teacher or tutor to provide feedback on your cloze test performance. They can help you identify areas for improvement and provide tips to help you improve your skills.

Examples:

Directions: Read the following text and complete it using the words given in the options.

As the world becomes increasingly ___1____, it is important for individuals and organizations to adapt to new technologies and ways of working. One of the key challenges facing businesses today is the need to ___2____ the growing demands of customers while remaining ___3____. To achieve this, companies must invest in ___4____ and processes that enable them to deliver high-quality products and services while maintaining ___5____ and efficiency. Additionally, businesses must ___6____ their employees to be agile and adaptable, with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly changing marketplace.

Explanation:

1. The correct answer is "globalized" because the sentence is referring to the increasing interconnectedness of the world, which is often described as globalization.
   
   
2. The correct answer is "meet" because the sentence is discussing the challenge of meeting the demands of customers.
   
   
3. The correct answer is "innovative" because the sentence is discussing the need for businesses to remain current and up-to-date with new technologies and ways of working.
   
   
4. The correct answer is "technology" because the sentence is referring to the importance of investing in technology and processes to deliver high-quality products and services.
   
   
5. The correct answer is "flexibility" because the sentence is discussing the need for businesses to maintain flexibility and efficiency in delivering their products and services.
   
   
6. The correct answer is "train" because the sentence is discussing the importance of training employees to be agile and adaptable in a rapidly changing marketplace.

Directions: Read the following text and complete it using the words given in the options.

Options:

1. address, enhance, ignore
2. reduce, increase, eliminate
3. safe, expensive, convenient
4. outdated, innovative, luxurious
5. ignoring, prioritizing, compromising
6. implement, oppose, discuss

Solution:

The text discusses the challenges facing urban planners in improving the sustainability and quality of life in growing and densely populated cities. To complete the text, we need to choose the correct word from the options provided for each of the six blanks.

1. The text implies that as cities grow, they face new challenges that require new strategies to improve sustainability and quality of life. Therefore, the correct word to complete the first blank is "address".
   
   
2. The text states that transportation has a negative impact on the environment and that cities need to find ways to reduce this impact. Therefore, the correct word to complete the second blank is "reduce".
   
   
3. The text suggests that transportation in cities should be safe, efficient, and convenient. Therefore, the correct word to complete the third blank is "convenient".
   
   
4. The text suggests that cities need to invest in infrastructure and technologies that promote sustainable transportation options. Therefore, the correct word to complete the fourth blank is "innovative".
   
   
5. The text suggests that cities should not ignore the needs of drivers but should also prioritize sustainable transportation options. Therefore, the correct word to complete the fifth blank is "compromising".
   
   
6. The text suggests that urban planners should implement land use policies that support compact, mixed-use development. Therefore, the correct word to complete the sixth blank is "implement".
   

Directions: Read the following text and complete it using the words given in the options.

As the sun began to rise over the horizon, the ocean came to life. Waves crashed against the shore, sending (1)_____________ of salty water into the air. Seagulls cried out as they flew overhead, searching for their breakfast. The sand was (2)_____________ and warm, perfect for a morning walk. As she strolled along the beach, she spotted a (3)_____________ shell and picked it up to admire its intricate details. In the distance, a pod of dolphins could be seen leaping and playing in the waves. The (4)_____________ of the ocean was calming, and she took a deep breath, savoring the fresh, salty air. It was a moment of (5)_____________ beauty, and she felt grateful to be able to experience it.

1. (a) sprays (b) droplets (c) streams (d) jets
2. (a) cool (b) hot (c) damp (d) dry
3. (a) plain (b) simple (c) unadorned (d) elaborate
4. (a) sound (b) sight (c) taste (d) smell
5. (a) breathtaking (b) depressing (c) irritating (d) forgettable

1. (a) sprays

Explanation: The correct option is (a) sprays. "Sprays" refers to the mist-like particles of water that are created when waves crash against the shore. "Droplets" would be too small, "streams" would be too large, and "jets" would imply too much force.

2. (d) dry

Explanation: The correct option is (d) dry. The sand being "dry" would be ideal for a morning walk because it is easier to walk on than damp sand. "Cool" and "damp" would be uncomfortable for a morning walk, and "hot" could potentially burn the feet.

3. (d) elaborate

Explanation:  The correct option is (d) elaborate. The word "intricate" suggests that the shell had complex and detailed features, making "elaborate" the best fit. "Plain," "simple," and "unadorned" would all suggest that the shell lacked any interesting or noteworthy characteristics.

4. (b) sight

Explanation: The correct option is (b) sight. The pod of dolphins leaping and playing in the waves is a visual experience, making "sight" the most appropriate option. "Sound" would refer to the noise made by the dolphins, "taste" would not be relevant, and "smell" would only be relevant if there were any specific odors present.

5. (a) breathtaking

Explanation: The correct option is (a) breathtaking. The description of the sunrise over the ocean, complete with crashing waves, seagulls, and leaping dolphins, creates a scene of natural beauty that is truly "breathtaking." "Depressing," "irritating," and "forgettable" would not be appropriate to describe this scene.