A verb tense question tests when something happens, using different forms of the same verb. Check that each form works with the subject, then look for a time clue in the sentence. If there’s no time clue, use the nearby verbs. Verbs joined by and usually match in form unless the sentence gives a reason for a change. A different verb form needs support from the text, even if it sounds natural.
Hints
- Hint 1
Find the verb before and. What time does that verb describe?
- Hint 2
Compare the two things joined by and. Does the sentence give a time clue that would place them at different times?
Step-by-step
Follow the nearby verb
Step 1Settle the subject
The subject, environmental activist Asha Patel, is one person doing both things linked by and. Do any choices fail to agree with that subject? No, all four forms can go with Patel, so when she does these things is what will decide.
- Step 2
Find the time clue
When does Patel do these two things? Throughout her speeches tells us about a repeated practice, and stresses is simple present, the form we use for habits. Verbs joined by and usually match in form unless the sentence gives a reason for a change. There’s no such change here, so her message is part of the same present habit.
- Step 3
Choose the matching form
Which form describes a repeated present habit? Communicated puts it in the past, is communicating describes it in progress, and has communicated links past messages to now. Communicates states the habit in the simple present, so it matches stresses and describes Patel’s message as part of her repeated practice. Choice C.