Master the English Language for Competitive Success with the Definitive Guide by Wren and Martin.
English for Competitive Examinations (Includes Descriptive and Objective Tests) by P. C. Wren and H. Martin is the ultimate and most trusted preparation book for aspirants of major competitive exams. Building upon the legendary legacy of the authors' foundational grammar series, this specialized volume is meticulously designed to meet the exacting demands of modern competitive tests. It serves as a comprehensive, all-in-one resource that systematically covers every objective and descriptive component of the English language syllabus across examinations such as UPSC (CSAT), SSC (CGL, CHSL, Steno), Banking (IBPS PO, Clerk, SBI), Railways, LIC, CDS, NDA, State PSCs, MBA entrance, and other recruitment tests.
This new edition is strategically structured into six logically sequenced sections, transforming complex language concepts into clear, manageable, and exam-focused modules. The book begins with an exhaustive grammar section, the cornerstone of English mastery. It provides an in-depth review of every grammatical concept—from nouns, pronouns, and verbs to tenses, voices, modals, and prepositions—complete with essential rules and common pitfalls. This foundational knowledge is critical for accurately solving a wide range of objective questions.
The second section delves into the analysis, synthesis, and transformation of sentences, crucial for understanding sentence structures like simple, compound, and complex sentences, and mastering clauses, voices, and direct/indirect speech. This skill set is directly applicable to error detection, sentence improvement, and rearrangement questions. Following this, the Test of Vocabulary section is a powerhouse for building lexical strength. It extensively covers Synonyms, Antonyms, Homonyms, Idioms, Proverbs, Phrasal Verbs, and One-Word Substitutions, which are frequently tested in exam Reading Comprehension and vocabulary-based questions.
A dedicated section on word/sentence rearrangement provides targeted strategies for tackling para-jumbles and ordering words, a common and challenging question type. The passage-based section offers rigorous practice in the Cloze Test (fill in the blanks) and reading comprehension, honing the ability to infer meaning, grasp context, and identify key ideas quickly and accurately under time constraints.
Recognizing the importance of written expression, the book features a robust Written Composition unit. It offers precise guidance and practice for essay writing, paragraph writing, report writing, précis writing, and debate, which are essential for the descriptive papers of exams like UPSC, SSC CGL Tier-III, and banking.
A defining feature of this competitive exam book is the integrated workbook at the end of each section. This provides an extensive array of practice exercises and objective tests—including Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)—that mirror the pattern and difficulty level of actual exams. This "learn-then-practice" approach ensures the reinforcement of concepts and builds exam readiness.
Key Features and Benefits:
1. Comprehensive Coverage: Spans all aspects—grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills—required for any competitive examination.
2. Exam-Oriented Structure: Content is specifically curated and organized around the syllabi of major national and state-level competitive exams.
3. Clear Conceptual Framework: Explains fundamental and advanced English grammar rules with the clarity and authority characteristic of Wren and Martin.
4. Ample Practice Material: Each section concludes with a vast workbook of graded exercises, MCQs, and practice tests for self-assessment.
5. Descriptive Test Preparation: Dedicated guidance on essay, report, précis, and paragraph writing addresses the complete exam spectrum.
6. Strategic Tool for Vocabulary: Focused chapters on idioms, phrasal verbs, synonyms, antonyms, and one-word substitutions enhance word power effectively.
7. Trusted Authorship: Authored by P. C. Wren and H. Martin, names synonymous with excellence in English language learning for generations.
This book is not merely a guide; it is a strategic companion for serious aspirants. It empowers you to build unshakable command over the English language, develop speed and accuracy in solving objective questions, and articulate thoughts effectively in descriptive answers. English for Competitive Examinations is an indispensable investment for anyone committed to achieving a high score and securing success in their career-defining exams.
