Question

The author’s novel was _________ by readers for its engaging plot, yet it was __________ by critics for its predictable ending.

• A. praised
• B. condemned
• C. celebrated
• D. criticized
• E. overlooked

Hint:

Look for conjunctions like "yet" or "but" — they signal a shift in tone or opinionUse that contrast to guide your word choices for each blank

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, D

This sentence presents two contrasting opinions about the author's novel — one from **readers** and one from **critics**, indicated by the conjunction **"yet"**This signals that we should expect opposing tones in the two blanks one positive, the other negative
First Blank "The author’s novel was by readers for its engaging plot"
The phrase "engaging plot" has a clearly positive connotation, so we need a word that reflects praise or appreciation from readers
(A) praised fits this context well, as it directly conveys approval and admiration
(C) celebrated could also work, but “praised” is more straightforward and common when referring to literary feedback

Second Blank "yet it was by critics for its predictable ending"
The clause "predictable ending" introduces a flaw, and since it's the opinion of critics, we expect a negative response
(D) criticized is the most appropriate choice, as it directly describes how critics typically respond to literary shortcomings
like (B) condemned are too extreme in this literary context, and (F) questioned implies doubt rather than critique(E) overlooked doesn’t fit the sentence structure — critics didn’t ignore the book; they took issue with it

Thus, the correct answer is (A) praised and (D) criticized, reflecting the contrast between readers' admiration and critics' disappointment