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4 steps that work on every Build a Sentence item
Before diving into specific grammar points, here's the strategy that applies to all 10 items — with a real example from the item bank for each step.
Step 1 — find the main verb first
Build the sentence around the action, not the first word you happen to recognize.
Chunks
the researchers · collected data · from three universities · over · a six-month period · during
"The researchers collected data from three universities over a six-month period."
"during" is the distractor — "over a six-month period" already covers the time expression, so you can't use both.
Step 2 — the extra word is usually a near-twin
A homophone, or a word that looks and sounds like the one you actually need.
"than" vs "then"
I · find · group projects · more effective · than · working alone · then
"I find group projects more effective than working alone."
"although" vs "though"
although · renewable energy · is · more expensive initially · it · saves money · long-term · though
"Although renewable energy is more expensive initially, it saves money long-term."
Step 3 — let the context set the relationship
The context line tells you exactly which preposition or conjunction fits.
"during" vs "for"
the library · stays open · until midnight · during · finals week · for
"The library stays open until midnight during finals week."
"finals week" is a named period → "during". "for" only works with a length of time, like "for two weeks."
Step 4 — test the grammar, not your ear
Some items accept more than one order — but every word must still fit correctly in each one.
Both orders accepted
if · you're · struggling with · the reading · I'd recommend · the study guide · your
"If you're struggling with the reading, I'd recommend the study guide."
Also accepted: "I'd recommend the study guide if you're struggling with the reading." Either way, "your" fits nowhere.
DEB
4 steps for every Build a Sentence item
Audio: DEB (ElevenLabs)