OE


Choice (A), benevolence, is a positive word so keep (A). Choice (B),
precocity, is an uncommon word, so put a question mark next to this
one. The same can be done for (C), parsimony. Choice (D) has the root
word noble in it, which is certainly positive, but the prefix ig- makes it
a bad thing—think of the word ignorant. Eliminate this choice. Choice
(E) has the prefix anti-, meaning against. This generally implies
something negative, so eliminate (E). Choice (F), probity, is another
tough word, so put a question mark next to it.
At this point, select (A), as it is the only choice with a checkmark next
to it. Choices (B), (C), and (F) all have question marks, so if there is no
way to further parse out what those words mean, pick one of them to
go with (A) and move on. At the worst, you have a 1-in-3 chance of
guessing correctly. Taking the POE a little further, you should also be
able to eliminate (B). The word precocity is related to precocious. It
also begins with the prefix pre-, meaning before—an idea that’s neither
positive nor negative. Choice (C), parsimony, means frugality, and (F),
probity, means honesty and integrity. Thus, the correct answer is (A)
and (F).