Question 55·Easy·Words in Context
During her internship, Mia quickly became known for her ______ approach to problem-solving, always thinking of new, unconventional solutions.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
For words-in-context questions, first read the whole sentence and use the words around the blank—especially any phrases after commas or dashes—as clues to the meaning. Decide whether the tone is positive or negative, then restate in your own simple words what should go in the blank (for example, "creative" or "boring"). Finally, match that idea to the answer choices and eliminate any options whose meanings or tones do not fit the context, being careful not to rely on how fancy a word sounds.
Hints
Look at the description after the comma
Focus on the words after the comma: "always thinking of new, unconventional solutions." Ask yourself: what do these words say about the way Mia solves problems?
Decide the tone of the blank
Is Mia being criticized or praised in this sentence? Is the description positive or negative? Eliminate any choices that clearly do not match that tone.
Match each answer choice to the description
Think about what each answer choice means. Which one best matches someone who thinks of solutions that are both "new" and "unconventional"?
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand the sentence and tone
Read the full sentence: "During her internship, Mia quickly became known for her ______ approach to problem-solving, always thinking of new, unconventional solutions."
Notice that the description after the comma explains what kind of approach Mia has. The tone is clearly positive and complimentary.
Use the context clue after the comma
Focus on the phrase: "always thinking of new, unconventional solutions."
- "New" suggests fresh or original ideas.
- "Unconventional" suggests not following the usual or traditional way.
Together, this describes a problem-solving style that is creative and original.
Check each answer choice against the meaning from context
Now compare the meaning from the context (creative, original, positive) with each option:
- tedious: boring, repetitive.
- obstinate: stubborn, unwilling to change.
- arbitrary: random, not based on reason or system.
- innovative: creative, introducing new ideas or methods.
Only one of these words matches the idea of "new" and "unconventional" in a positive way.
Choose the word that best fits the context
Since the sentence praises Mia for coming up with "new, unconventional solutions," the best fit is D) innovative, which means creative and original in thinking or methods.