Solutions

Question

A recent review of pay scales indicates that CEO’s now earn an average of 419 times more pay than blue-collar workers, compared to a ratio of 42 times in 1980.

Difficulty Level

Solution

Option C is the right answer.

Option Analysis

A) An ‘ed’ participial modifier modifies the nearest noun phrase. ‘Compared’ seems to modify blue collar workers. This is incorrect. ‘Ratio of 42 times’ is redundant. 42 times of what? Not clear.

B) A ratio that compares to a ratio of 42 times in 1980′ is incorrect. “ratio” cannot compare itself. “42 times” of what? Not clear

C) CORRECT ANSWER. Correct comparison between 2 rations. ‘A ratio ….’ is an appositive modifier that modifies the ratio used in the main clause.

D) This is a sentence fragment. It does not have an active verb. Also, this answer option changes the meaning of the sentence – WE are referring only to those who earn 419 times the pay of blue-collar workers. Also, a recent review does not indicate “CEO’s”.

E) ‘Ratio of 42 times’ is redundant. The word ‘earning’ makes the sentence a fragment. This sentence also nonsensically implies that the recent review indicates CEOs. 42 times of what? Not clear.