Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When proofreading your writing, the primary focus should be on checking for clarity, consistency, and overall flow. This involves ensuring that the content is clear, logical, and flows smoothly from one point to the next. While enhancing originality can be important, it is secondary to ensuring that the writing effectively communicates its message. Ignoring minor grammatical errors like typos can detract from the professionalism and impact of the writing. Replacing common words with thesaurus alternatives should be done sparingly and only when it enhances the clarity or impact of the text, rather than as a routine practice during proofreading.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of using strong vocabulary in writing is to communicate your ideas clearly and precisely to the reader. While using complex words may impress the reader, the ultimate goal is effective communication. Clear communication ensures that the message is easily understood, removing any potential confusion or ambiguity. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the main focus should be on clarity and precision in conveying thoughts, rather than solely aiming to impress, confuse, or save space.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this sentence, 'results' is the direct object of the verb 'awaited,' functioning as a noun. Hence, option B, 'Noun,' is correct. The students were eagerly waiting for what? The results - which makes 'results' a noun in this context. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. 'Results' is not describing a verb, an adjective, or an adverb in the sentence; it is the object of the students' anticipation, indicating a noun.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: "Ironic" and "serious" are antonyms as they have opposite meanings. 'Ironic' refers to something that is contrary to what is expected or intended, while 'serious' indicates something grave or without humor. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choice A is incorrect because synonyms are words with similar meanings. Choice C is incorrect as homonyms are words that sound the same but have different meanings, which is not the case for 'ironic' and 'serious'. Choice D is also incorrect as there is a relationship between the two words, making B the correct answer.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Alliteration is the repetition of the initial consonant sound in neighboring words. In the sentence 'The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog,' 'quick' and 'brown' both start with the 'k' sound, but only 'quick' aligns with the definition of alliteration as it repeats the 'k' sound found at the beginning of the words.