How the PELLETB clarity sub-test works
Each item shows two options, a and b, that say almost the same thing. You mark the one that is more clearly written. POST says only common writing errors are included: unclear references, misplaced modifiers, sentence fragments and run-on sentences. No obscure faults are tested.
Clarity sits with vocabulary and spelling in the writing component, which together hold 45 to 54 items. Nothing is deducted for a wrong answer. POST’s own guide calls clarity the only sub-test where studying can markedly improve your score.
How to choose the clearer sentence
Use the same routine on every pair:
- Find the one place the two sentences differ. The rest is identical.
- Check that every he, she, it and they points to exactly one person or thing.
- Check that each describing phrase sits next to what it describes.
- Check that each option is one complete sentence: no fragment left on its own and no two sentences run together.
- Choose the clearer option, not a perfect one. POST’s own key accepts a slightly clumsy sentence when the other has a real fault.
Worked examples
a. “When Deputy Ruiz met Ms. Grant at the station, she was upset.” b. “Ms. Grant was upset when Deputy Ruiz met her at the station.” In a, “she” could be either woman. In b, only Ms. Grant can be upset. The answer is b.
a. “The suspect fled on foot. Leaving his car running in the driveway.” b. “The suspect fled on foot, leaving his car running in the driveway.” The second part of a cannot stand alone, so it is a fragment. The answer is b.
Tips for the real clarity sub-test
- Study the rules in POST’s Applicant Preparation Guide on modification, reference, run-ons and fragments. This is the sub-test where that pays most.
- Name the fault in the wrong option before you mark your answer. If you cannot name one, read both again.
- Move briskly. The items are short, and the reading passages need far more of your 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Answer every item. A blank scores the same as a wrong answer.
Practise PELLETB clarity on CogniPrep
Our clarity drill gives you 16 pairs in 12 minutes, using the faults POST names. You can move back and forth, flag items and change answers until you finish. You get your percentage correct, compared with the average applicant in POST’s older published figures, not a T-score, because POST does not publish how to convert one. The 12 minutes are the share of the real clock we suggest for clarity; the real test has no limit per section.