OFFICIAL EXPLANATION


C, F

Let's begin with the easier blank, which in this case is the second. The sentence states that Margaret impressed critics and fans with her wit, which was dissimilar to that of her peers. We can predict that her wit was "unique." Choice (F) singular, which means "distinctive" or "unique," matches that prediction and is the correct answer. Choice (D) abrasive, or "tending to annoy," and choice (E) pedestrian, or "lacking in imagination," both have negative connotations and do not explain why Margaret attracts so many fans and earns so much praise.
For the first blank, we need a word with a positive connotation, because critics and fans are impressed with Margaret's skills as an orator. We might predict that she is an "excellent" orator. This blank is tricky, though, because there is no exact synonym for "excellent." Choice (C) nonpareil, however, means "unequaled," which is a very positive characterization for an orator. This is the correct answer. Choice (A) plainspoken indicates a speaker who uses simple and direct language. Since we're told that Margaret is acclaimed for her wit, it is not an appropriate term to describe her and is therefore incorrect. Choice (B) timorous, or "timid," is not a desirable quality in an orator and is also incorrect.
The credited answers are (C) and (F).