Conjunctions and transitional devices (Q7)

Class 12 English, unit 7

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Connectives are the words that join ideas: conjunctions join clauses inside a sentence, and transitional devices link one sentence to the next and show the logical relation between them. This unit covers coordinating, subordinating and correlative conjunctions, conjunctive adverbs and their punctuation, and the transitional devices of time, addition, contrast, cause and effect, sequence, emphasis, example, comparison, conclusion and clarification. It prepares you for Q7 (5 marks), the connective errors in Q5 A, and the conjunction MCQs in Q1.

Learning outcomes (5)

Identify and use coordinating, subordinating and correlative conjunctions correctly, with correct punctuation.
Distinguish conjunctions from conjunctive adverbs and prepositional connectives, and punctuate each correctly.
Apply subject-verb agreement and parallel structure with correlative conjunctions.
Use transitional devices of time, addition, contrast, cause and effect, sequence, emphasis, example, comparison, conclusion and clarification to make writing cohesive.
Complete a passage with suitable transitional devices from given clue types or from a box (FBISE Q7).

Connectives: the big pictureOften examined

A connective is a word or phrase that links ideas. Some connectives join two clauses inside one sentence (these are conjunctions). Others link one sentence to the next and show how the ideas are related (these are transitional devices, also called transition words or linking words). A good paragraph needs both, because they make the writing cohesive: each idea flows logically into the next.

Before we can use connectives correctly we need two grammar words: clause and independent clause.

Clause: A group of words with its own subject and verb. The rain stopped is a clause (subject the rain, verb stopped).
Independent (main) clause: A clause that makes complete sense on its own and can stand as a sentence: We went for a walk.
Dependent (subordinate) clause: A clause that cannot stand alone because it begins with a subordinating conjunction: after the rain stopped. It needs a main clause to complete it.
Conjunction: A joining word that links words, phrases or clauses: and, but, because, although, either ... or.
Coordinating conjunction: Joins two items of equal grammatical rank, for example two main clauses: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so (FANBOYS).
Subordinating conjunction: Begins a dependent clause and joins it to a main clause: because, although, when, if, unless, so that.
Correlative conjunctions: Conjunctions used in pairs: either ... or, neither ... nor, not only ... but also.
Conjunctive adverb: An adverb that links the meaning of two main clauses but does not join them grammatically: however, therefore, moreover, nevertheless. It needs a full stop or a semicolon before it.
Transitional device: Any word or phrase that shows the logical relation (time, addition, contrast, cause and effect, sequence, emphasis, example, comparison, conclusion) between ideas: meanwhile, in addition, as a result, for example.
Cohesion: The quality of a text whose sentences are clearly linked, so the reader follows the logic without effort.

The five kinds of connectives and how they are punctuated
Family	What follows it	Punctuation	Example
Coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS)	A second main clause (or a word or phrase)	Comma before it when it joins two main clauses	It was raining, but the match continued.
Subordinating conjunction	A clause (subject + verb)	Comma after the dependent clause when it comes first	Although it was raining, the match continued.
Correlative pair	Two parallel items	Usually no comma	Either Ali or Sara will bowl first.
Conjunctive adverb / transitional phrase	A comma, then a new main clause	Full stop or semicolon before it, comma after it	It was raining. However, the match continued.
Preposition-type connective	A noun, pronoun or -ing form (no clause)	Comma after the phrase when it comes first	Despite the rain, the match continued.

Coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS)Often examined

There are only seven coordinating conjunctions. Remember them with the word FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So. They join items of equal rank: two nouns, two adjectives, two phrases or two main clauses.

FANBOYS with their meanings
Conjunction	Relation	Example
for	reason (formal; means because)	We stayed indoors, for the heat in Multan was unbearable.
and	addition	Ahmed plays cricket, and his sister plays hockey.
nor	negative addition (after a negative)	He did not call, nor did he send a message.
but	contrast	The test was long, but it was not difficult.
or	choice / alternative	You can take the metro bus, or you can walk.
yet	unexpected contrast	She studied all night, yet she forgot the formula.
so	result	The shops were closed for Eid, so we cooked at home.

Punctuation rules

Two main clauses: put a comma before the conjunction. The bus was late, so we took a rickshaw.
Two words or phrases, or one subject with two verbs: no comma. Sara wrote the essay and checked it twice. (one subject, two verbs)
Very short clauses may drop the comma: He ran and he won.
Never join two main clauses with a comma alone. That error is a comma splice: It was late, we went home is wrong. Write It was late, so we went home.
nor after a negative takes question order (inversion): She did not eat, nor did she drink.
for as a conjunction always comes in the middle of the sentence, never at the start, and it always takes a comma before it.
Starting a sentence with And or But is common in speech and journalism, but in exam writing it is safer to use Moreover or However at the start of a sentence.

Join with a FANBOYS conjunction

Join each pair: (a) The pitch was wet. The umpires delayed the start. (b) He is poor. He is honest. (c) Hurry up. You will miss the train.

(a) The pitch was wet, so the umpires delayed the start. (result)
(b) He is poor, but (or yet) he is honest. (contrast)
(c) Hurry up, or you will miss the train. (or here means otherwise: a warning)

Subordinating conjunctions by meaningOften examined

A subordinating conjunction turns a clause into a dependent (adverb) clause and fixes its meaning: when, why, on what condition, in spite of what, and so on. The dependent clause can come before or after the main clause.

Dependent clause first: put a comma after it. When the bell rang, the students left.
Dependent clause second: usually no comma. The students left when the bell rang.
Clauses of strong contrast (whereas, while meaning contrast, although at the end) often take a comma even when second: Ali likes tea, whereas Hina likes coffee.

Subordinating conjunctions grouped by meaning
Meaning	Conjunctions	Example
Time	when, whenever, while, as, before, after, until (till), since, as soon as, once, by the time, now that	As soon as the Eid moon was sighted, people began to celebrate.
Reason / cause	because, since, as, now that, in that	We cancelled the trip because the motorway was closed by fog.
Purpose	so that, in order that, lest (... should)	He left early so that he could catch the 7 o'clock bus. / Walk carefully lest you (should) fall.
Condition	if, unless, provided (that), providing, as long as, on condition that, in case, even if	You will pass if you revise daily. / You will fail unless you revise.
Concession / contrast	although, though, even though, even if, while, whereas	Although he was injured, he completed his century.
Result	so ... that, such ... that, so that (meaning with the result that)	The tea was so hot that I could not drink it.
Comparison	than, as ... as, not so ... as	Karachi is bigger than Lahore. / She runs as fast as her brother.
Place	where, wherever	Sit wherever you find an empty seat.
Manner	as, as if, as though, the way	Do it as your teacher told you. / He spoke as if he knew everything.

Rules and traps

One link only. Although never pairs with but; because never pairs with so. (Older grammar books accept though ... yet, but plain though is safer.)
unless = if not. Do not add not: Unless you work hard, you will fail (right); Unless you do not work hard (wrong).
lest means so that ... not and takes should or the base verb, never not: Run fast lest you (should) miss the bus.
until already contains the idea of not before; do not add not: Wait here until I come (right), until I do not come (wrong).
Future after if, when, as soon as, until, before: use the present tense in the time or condition clause. I will call you when I arrive, not when I will arrive.
since has two meanings: time (since 2020) and reason (Since you are here, help me). while has two meanings: time (while I was eating) and contrast (while Ali is tall, his brother is short). as has four: time, reason, manner, comparison. Read the whole sentence before choosing the type.
because vs because of / due to: because takes a clause (because it rained); because of, due to and owing to take a noun (because of the rain). Due to he was ill is wrong.
although vs despite / in spite of: although + clause; despite / in spite of + noun or -ing. Despite of is always wrong. Inspite is a spelling error: write in spite of.
even though (a fact) vs even if (a possibility): Even though it is raining, we will go (it is raining). Even if it rains, we will go (it may rain).
as if / as though for an unreal comparison take were: He talks as if he were the captain.

Correlative conjunctions: pairs, agreement and parallelismOften examined

Correlative conjunctions work in pairs. Each half stands before one of the two items being linked. Two rules decide almost every question on them: the right partner (each pair has a fixed second half) and parallel structure (both items have the same grammatical form).

Correlative pairs
Pair	Meaning	Example
both ... and	addition (the two together)	Both Babar and Rizwan scored fifties.
either ... or	choice of one of two	You can either stay here or come with us.
neither ... nor	negative of both	Neither the teacher nor the students were late.
not only ... but also	addition with emphasis	She is not only intelligent but also hard-working.
whether ... or	two possibilities	I do not know whether he will come or stay at home.
not ... but	rejects the first, accepts the second	The prize went not to Ali but to Hamza.
as ... as	equal comparison	Islamabad is as green as it was ten years ago.
no sooner ... than	the second action followed immediately	No sooner had the bell rung than the children ran out.
hardly ... when (before)	immediately after	Hardly had we reached the stadium when it began to rain.
scarcely ... when (before)	immediately after	Scarcely had she sat down when the phone rang.
rather ... than / would rather ... than	preference	I would rather walk than wait for an hour.

Right partner rules

no sooner takes than: never when. hardly and scarcely take when (or before): never than.
neither takes nor; either takes or. Neither ... or is wrong.
both takes and; both ... as well as is wrong.
not only takes but also; do not drop also in formal writing.
whether takes or (or or not); whether ... either is wrong.
as ... as in positive sentences; not as ... as or not so ... as in negative ones.

Inversion (question word order)

When no sooner, hardly, scarcely, not only or neither begins the sentence, put the helping verb before the subject, as in a question. These clauses usually use the past perfect for the first action.

No sooner had I reached the station than the train left.
Hardly had he opened the door when the guests arrived.
Not only did she win the debate, but she also broke the record.
Normal order is fine when the word does not begin the sentence: I had no sooner reached the station than the train left.

Subject-verb agreement with pairs

Agreement rules for joined subjects
Subjects joined by	Verb agrees with	Example
both ... and	plural always	Both the captain and the coach are happy.
either ... or / neither ... nor / not only ... but also / or / nor	the nearer subject (proximity rule)	Neither the players nor the captain was ready. / Neither the captain nor the players were ready.
not ... but	the subject after but (the accepted one)	Not the students but the teacher is to blame.
as well as / along with / together with / in addition to	the first subject (the phrase is extra)	The principal, as well as the teachers, is attending the seminar.

Parallelism

The words after each half of the pair must be the same kind: noun and noun, verb and verb, phrase and phrase, clause and clause. Place the first half directly before the first item.

Parallel structure with correlatives
Wrong (not parallel)	Right (parallel)
She either will go to Murree or to Swat.	She will go either to Murree or to Swat.
He is not only a good bowler but also bats well.	He is not only a good bowler but also a good batsman.
I like both swimming and to ride.	I like both swimming and riding.
She would rather to walk than take a taxi.	She would rather walk than take a taxi.

Conjunctive adverbs vs conjunctionsOften examined

Words like however, therefore, moreover, nevertheless, consequently, otherwise, furthermore, meanwhile, besides, thus, hence, instead, indeed, still, likewise link meaning between two clauses, but grammatically they are adverbs, not conjunctions. An adverb cannot glue two main clauses together. So you need a full stop or a semicolon before it.

How to punctuate a conjunctive adverb
Pattern	Punctuation	Example
Two sentences	Full stop, capital letter, comma after the adverb	The road was blocked. However, we reached school on time.
One sentence with a semicolon	Semicolon before, comma after, small letter	The road was blocked; however, we reached school on time.
Adverb inside the second clause	Commas on both sides	The road was blocked. We, however, reached school on time.
Wrong: comma splice	Comma only	The road was blocked, however we reached school on time. (wrong)

Same meaning, different grammar
Relation	Conjunction (joins clauses; comma before it is enough)	Conjunctive adverb (needs . or ; before it)	Preposition (takes a noun or -ing)
Contrast	but, yet, although, whereas, while	however, nevertheless, nonetheless, still, on the other hand	despite, in spite of, unlike
Result	so, so ... that	therefore, consequently, as a result, thus, hence	because of (cause), as a result of
Reason	because, since, as, for	(none; use the reason is that)	because of, due to, owing to
Addition	and, as well as (words), not only ... but also	moreover, furthermore, in addition, besides, also	in addition to, besides, as well as + noun / -ing
Condition / warning	if, unless, or	otherwise	in case of, without
Time	when, while, as soon as, before, after	meanwhile, afterwards, then, subsequently	during, after, before + noun

then is an adverb too, but in short narrative sentences it often goes without a comma: We ate dinner. Then we went to the park. After and it is normal: and then.
yet and so can be conjunctions (comma before them is enough) or adverbs; in Q7 treat them as conjunctions.
besides can be an adverb (Besides, it is too late.) or a preposition (Besides cricket, he plays hockey.).
as well as and in addition to are followed by a noun or an -ing form, not by a full clause: As well as teaching, she writes books.
Capitalise the adverb after a full stop (. Moreover,); keep it small after a semicolon (; moreover,).

Rewrite in three ways

Link: The exam was difficult. Most students passed. using (a) a coordinating conjunction, (b) a subordinating conjunction, (c) a conjunctive adverb, (d) a preposition.

(a) The exam was difficult, but most students passed.
(b) Although the exam was difficult, most students passed.
(c) The exam was difficult; nevertheless, most students passed.
(d) Despite the difficulty of the exam, most students passed.

Transitional devices grouped by typeOften examined

Q7 names the type of transition for each blank. The table below lists the devices FBISE expects under each type, what grammar each has, and how it is punctuated. Learn at least two devices per type: one conjunction (for a blank in the middle of a sentence) and one adverb (for a blank at the start of a sentence).

The transitional devices for Q7, grouped by type
Type (clue)	Device	Grammar and punctuation	Example
Time	meanwhile	Adverb: starts a sentence + comma	Mother cooked the Eid lunch. Meanwhile, the children decorated the house.
Time	afterwards	Adverb: start or end of sentence	We watched the match. Afterwards, we had dinner at a dhaba.
Time	then	Adverb: start of sentence (comma optional)	He locked the door. Then he left for the office.
Time	at that moment	Adverb phrase + comma	The batsman was about to hit the ball. At that moment, the lights went out.
Time	subsequently	Adverb (formal): + comma	The road was damaged in the flood. Subsequently, it was rebuilt.
Time	as soon as	Subordinating conjunction + clause	As soon as the rain stopped, the match resumed.
Time	eventually	Adverb: after a long time or much effort	She failed twice. Eventually, she passed the driving test.
Time	when	Subordinating conjunction + clause	When the guests arrived, we served tea.
Time	while	Subordinating conjunction + clause (continuous action)	While I was studying, the power went off.
Addition	moreover	Adverb + comma (after . or ;)	The hotel was cheap. Moreover, it was close to the beach.
Addition	furthermore	Adverb + comma (after . or ;)	Smoking harms your lungs. Furthermore, it wastes money.
Addition	in addition	Adverb phrase + comma; in addition to + noun	The course is free. In addition, students get a laptop.
Addition	besides	Adverb + comma; also preposition + noun	It is too late to go out. Besides, it is raining.
Addition	also	Adverb: usually before the main verb	She sings well. She also plays the flute.
Addition	as well as	Joins words or phrases; + noun or -ing	He bought pens as well as notebooks.
Contrast	however	Adverb + comma (after . or ;)	The plan was good. However, it was never carried out.
Contrast	nevertheless	Adverb + comma: in spite of that	The pitch was wet; nevertheless, the match began on time.
Contrast	nonetheless	Adverb + comma (same as nevertheless)	The task was hard. Nonetheless, we finished it.
Contrast	on the other hand	Adverb phrase: compares two sides	City life is fast. On the other hand, village life is peaceful.
Contrast	whereas	Subordinating conjunction: compares two facts	Ali is shy, whereas his brother is talkative.
Contrast	yet	Coordinating conjunction (comma before)	He is rich, yet he lives simply.
Contrast	but	Coordinating conjunction (comma before)	I called him, but he did not answer.
Contrast	although	Subordinating conjunction + clause	Although it was cold, we went to Murree.
Contrast	still	Adverb: even so	He was injured. Still, he played the final.
Contrast	in contrast	Adverb phrase: shows a difference	The north is cold. In contrast, the south is hot.
Contrast	on the contrary	Adverb phrase: rejects the previous idea	He is not lazy. On the contrary, he works very hard.
Cause and effect	because	Subordinating conjunction + clause (cause)	The flight was delayed because there was fog.
Cause and effect	since	Subordinating conjunction + clause (cause)	Since it was a holiday, the roads were empty.
Cause and effect	therefore	Adverb + comma (effect)	He did not revise. Therefore, he failed.
Cause and effect	consequently	Adverb + comma (effect)	Prices rose sharply. Consequently, people bought less.
Cause and effect	as a result	Adverb phrase + comma (effect)	It rained all night. As a result, the streets flooded.
Cause and effect	thus	Adverb (effect; formal)	He saved every month and thus bought a car.
Cause and effect	hence	Adverb (effect; formal)	The bridge is weak; hence, heavy trucks are not allowed.
Cause and effect	so that	Subordinating conjunction: purpose + can / could	She woke early so that she could pray Fajr on time.
Cause and effect	due to	Preposition + noun (cause)	The school was closed due to heavy snowfall.
Sequence	first / firstly	Adverb + comma: the first step	First, wash the rice.
Sequence	secondly	Adverb + comma: the second point	Secondly, soak it for twenty minutes.
Sequence	next	Adverb + comma	Next, boil the water.
Sequence	then	Adverb	Then add the rice and salt.
Sequence	after that	Adverb phrase + comma	After that, cover the pot.
Sequence	finally	Adverb + comma: the last step	Finally, serve the biryani hot.
Sequence	lastly	Adverb + comma: the last point in a list	Lastly, thank your guests.
Emphasis	indeed	Adverb + comma: confirms and strengthens	The exam was hard; indeed, it was the hardest of the year.
Emphasis	in fact	Adverb phrase + comma: adds a stronger fact	He is a good player. In fact, he is the best in the team.
Emphasis	above all	Adverb phrase + comma: the most important point	Be kind and honest. Above all, be truthful.
Emphasis	certainly	Adverb: no doubt	Hard work certainly pays off.
Emphasis	undoubtedly	Adverb: without doubt	Undoubtedly, Quaid-e-Azam was a great leader.
Emphasis	especially	Adverb: before the word it stresses (not + comma at sentence start)	I love fruit, especially mangoes.
Emphasis	most importantly	Adverb phrase + comma	Sleep well before the exam. Most importantly, stay calm.
Example	for example	Adverb phrase + comma	Some sports need little equipment. For example, running needs only shoes.
Example	for instance	Adverb phrase + comma	Pakistan has many lakes. For instance, Saif-ul-Muluk is famous.
Example	such as	Preposition-type: + nouns, no comma after	I like fruits such as mangoes and apples.
Comparison	similarly	Adverb + comma: same idea in another case	Plants need water. Similarly, animals cannot live without it.
Comparison	likewise	Adverb + comma	The father was generous. Likewise, his son helps the poor.
Comparison	in the same way	Adverb phrase + comma	Exercise builds the body. In the same way, reading builds the mind.
Conclusion / summary	in conclusion	Adverb phrase + comma: final paragraph	In conclusion, education is the key to progress.
Conclusion / summary	to sum up	Adverb phrase + comma	To sum up, the plan saves time and money.
Conclusion / summary	in short	Adverb phrase + comma	In short, the trip was a disaster.
Conclusion / summary	overall	Adverb + comma: general judgement	Overall, the results were good.
Clarification	in other words	Adverb phrase + comma: says it again more simply	He is frugal. In other words, he spends very little.
Clarification	that is (i.e.)	Adverb phrase between commas	Bring a photo ID, that is, your CNIC or B-form.

Devices that are easy to confuse

Confusable transitions
Pair	Difference
afterwards / after	Afterwards is an adverb and starts a sentence alone. After needs a noun or clause: After the match, we ate.
eventually / finally	Eventually = in the end, after a long time or many problems (time). Finally = the last step or point (sequence), or at last.
finally / at last / lastly	At last shows relief after waiting (At last, the bus came). Lastly introduces the last item in a list. Finally can do both.
meanwhile / while	Meanwhile is an adverb: . Meanwhile, ... While is a conjunction: While he slept, ...
in contrast / on the contrary	In contrast shows a difference between two things. On the contrary says the opposite of the previous statement is true, usually after a negative.
however / but	Same meaning. but joins two clauses with a comma; however needs a full stop or semicolon before it.
because / because of / due to	because + clause. because of / due to + noun.
so / so that	so = result. so that = purpose (+ can / could).
also / as well as	also goes before the main verb or after be. as well as joins two nouns or phrases.
for example / such as	For example, starts a sentence. such as follows a noun and lists examples without a comma after it.
especially / above all	especially stresses one item inside a sentence. Above all, starts a sentence and gives the most important point.

Common errors with connectives (for Q5 A and MCQs)

Q5 A asks you to correct errors that include connectives/transitional devices. These are the errors examiners set most often. Learn the correct column.

Wrong and right: connectives
Wrong	Right	Rule
Although he was poor, but he was honest.	Although he was poor, he was honest.	One link only
Because it was late, so we left.	Because it was late, we left.	One link only
It was raining, however we played.	It was raining; however, we played.	Conjunctive adverb needs ; or .
No sooner did he arrive when it rained.	No sooner did he arrive than it rained.	no sooner ... than
Hardly had I sat than the bell rang.	Hardly had I sat down when the bell rang.	hardly ... when
Neither Ali or Sara came.	Neither Ali nor Sara came.	neither ... nor
Both Ali as well as Sara came.	Both Ali and Sara came.	both ... and
Unless you do not work, you will fail.	Unless you work, you will fail.	unless = if not
Walk slowly lest you may not fall.	Walk slowly lest you should fall.	lest ... should, no not
Wait until I do not return.	Wait until I return.	until has no not
He was absent due to he was ill.	He was absent because he was ill.	due to + noun
Despite of the rain, we went.	Despite the rain, we went. / In spite of the rain, we went.	despite has no of
The reason is because he was ill.	The reason is that he was ill.	reason ... that
I will tell him when he will come.	I will tell him when he comes.	Present tense in time clause
The captain as well as the players were present.	The captain as well as the players was present.	Verb agrees with first subject
She not only sings but also dancing.	She not only sings but also dances.	Parallelism
I do not know if or not he will come.	I do not know whether or not he will come.	whether or not
He works hard so he could pass.	He works hard so that he can pass.	so that for purpose

How to solve Q7 step by stepOften examined

New-syllabus Q7 gives a short passage with six blanks. Each blank has a clue in brackets (1: Time, 2: Addition and so on). You fill any five: one mark each. The old-syllabus paper gives a box of words instead, with more words than blanks.

Five checks for every blank

Read the whole passage once without filling anything, so you know the story and who does what.
Find the logical relation. Read the sentence before the blank and the words after it. Ask: does the second idea happen later (time), add more (addition), go against the first (contrast), result from it or explain it (cause and effect), come next in a series (sequence), or strengthen it (emphasis)?
Check the clue type given. Your word must belong to that type, even if another type also seems to make sense. On a box paper, cross out each word as you use it.
Check the grammar slot. Blank at the start of a sentence, with a comma after it: a transitional adverb (However, Moreover, Therefore, Finally, Indeed). Blank after a semicolon with a comma after it: the same adverbs in small letters. Blank in the middle joining two clauses with no comma: a conjunction (because, while, but, although, and). Blank before a noun phrase: a preposition-type device (due to, because of, in addition to, such as).
Check capitals and commas. Capitalise after a full stop. If the paper printed no comma after an adverb, add one yourself in your answer (Moreover,). Read the finished sentence aloud in your head.

Choose the device from the position of the blank
Position of the blank	Word class needed	Time	Addition	Contrast	Cause and effect	Sequence	Emphasis
Start of sentence: . ______, clause	Adverb + comma	Meanwhile / Afterwards / Eventually	Moreover / Furthermore / In addition	However / Nevertheless	Therefore / As a result / Consequently	First / Next / Then / Finally	Indeed / In fact / Above all
After semicolon: ; ______, clause	Adverb (small letter) + comma	meanwhile	moreover	however	therefore	then	indeed / in fact
Mid-sentence joining two clauses: clause ______ clause	Conjunction	when / while / as soon as	and	but / although / whereas / while	because / since / so that	and then	(rare)
Before a noun: ______ the rain	Preposition	during / after	in addition to / as well as	despite / in spite of	due to / because of	after / before	especially

Worked blank-by-blank reasoning

Ayesha missed the bus. (1: Contrast) ______, she reached school before the bell. She had left home early (2: Cause and effect) ______ she had a test in the first period.

(1) The second sentence goes against what we expect after missing a bus: contrast. The blank starts a sentence and a comma follows: adverb. Answer: However, (or Nevertheless,).
(2) she had a test explains why she left early: cause. The blank is in the middle joining two clauses, no comma: conjunction. Answer: because (or as, since).

Practice passages solvedOften examined

These passages follow the exact FBISE Q7 format. Cover the answers, try each one, then check the reasons.

Passage 1: Eid shopping

(1: Time) ______ Eid was only two days away, the markets of Rawalpindi were crowded. Bilal went with his father to buy new clothes; (2: Addition) ______, they had to buy gifts for the cousins. Prices were very high; (3: Contrast) ______, the shops were full of buyers. The traffic was jammed (4: Cause and effect) ______ everyone had come out at the same time. (5: Sequence) ______, after three hours, they returned home tired but happy. (6: Emphasis) ______, it was the busiest evening of the year.

Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why
1	Time; starts a clause that is followed by a main clause	As	As + clause = at the time when; When is also right. An adverb (Meanwhile) cannot introduce a clause joined by a comma.
2	Addition; after a semicolon, comma follows	moreover	Adds a second task; small letter after a semicolon. in addition, besides, furthermore also fit.
3	Contrast; after a semicolon	however	High prices would keep people away, but shops were full. nevertheless also fits.
4	Cause; joins two clauses	because	The second clause gives the reason for the jam. as, since also fit.
5	Sequence; start of sentence	Finally	The last event of the story. At last also fits.
6	Emphasis; start of sentence	Indeed	Strengthens the idea of a busy evening. In fact also fits.

Completed passage: As Eid was only two days away, the markets of Rawalpindi were crowded. Bilal went with his father to buy new clothes; moreover, they had to buy gifts for the cousins. Prices were very high; however, the shops were full of buyers. The traffic was jammed because everyone had come out at the same time. Finally, after three hours, they returned home tired but happy. Indeed, it was the busiest evening of the year.

Passage 2: The school science fair

The students of Class 12 planned a science fair. (1: Sequence) ______, they chose their projects and formed groups. (2: Time) ______, the teachers arranged tables in the hall. Hamza's model did not work on the first day; (3: Contrast) ______, he did not give up. He stayed late in the lab (4: Cause and effect) ______ he could fix the circuit. His model won the first prize; (5: Addition) ______, it was selected for the national exhibition. (6: Emphasis) ______, his hard work had paid off.

Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why
1	Sequence; first step	First	The first stage of planning. Firstly is also right.
2	Time; same period as the students' work	Meanwhile	Two things happening at the same time; adverb at sentence start.
3	Contrast	however	Failure, then refusing to give up. nevertheless also fits.
4	Cause and effect (purpose); followed by could	so that	so that + could shows purpose. because does not fit could fix.
5	Addition; after a semicolon	moreover	A second success is added. furthermore, in addition also fit.
6	Emphasis	Indeed	Stresses the conclusion. Clearly, Certainly also fit.

Completed passage: The students of Class 12 planned a science fair. First, they chose their projects and formed groups. Meanwhile, the teachers arranged tables in the hall. Hamza's model did not work on the first day; however, he did not give up. He stayed late in the lab so that he could fix the circuit. His model won the first prize; moreover, it was selected for the national exhibition. Indeed, his hard work had paid off.

Passage 3: A road accident (mixed types)

A car was speeding on the Murree road. (1: Time) ______, a child ran across the road. The driver braked hard; (2: Cause and effect) ______, the car skidded into a wall. Nobody was badly hurt. (3: Contrast) ______, the car was completely damaged. Many people helped; some, (4: Example) ______, called an ambulance. (5: Comparison) ______, a shopkeeper brought water for the driver. (6: Conclusion) ______, careless driving can turn a pleasant trip into a nightmare.

Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why
1	Time; sudden event at the same moment	At that moment	Marks the exact time. Suddenly is accepted by most examiners.
2	Cause and effect; after a semicolon	as a result	The skid is the result of hard braking. consequently, therefore also fit.
3	Contrast	However	No injury against a damaged car. On the other hand also fits.
4	Example; between commas	for example	One example of the helpers. for instance also fits.
5	Comparison	Similarly	Another person helping in the same way. Likewise also fits.
6	Conclusion	In short	Sums up the lesson. To sum up, In conclusion also fit.

Completed passage: A car was speeding on the Murree road. At that moment, a child ran across the road. The driver braked hard; as a result, the car skidded into a wall. Nobody was badly hurt. However, the car was completely damaged. Many people helped; some, for example, called an ambulance. Similarly, a shopkeeper brought water for the driver. In short, careless driving can turn a pleasant trip into a nightmare.

Passage 4: Box type (old syllabus style)

Use each word once: therefore, in other words, whereas, besides, otherwise, until, in fact. Water is precious in Pakistan. (1) ______, our rivers are shrinking every year. Some people waste it carelessly, (2) ______ others walk miles to fetch a single bucket. We must fix leaking taps; (3) ______, a large amount will be lost every day. Farmers should use modern irrigation; (4) ______, they should use less water to grow more food. (5) ______, water saving should be taught in schools. The problem will not end (6) ______ every citizen plays a part.

Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why
1	Emphasis / stronger fact	In fact	Adds a stronger fact about scarcity.
2	Contrast of two groups; mid-sentence after a comma	whereas	Compares two facts; a conjunction is needed to join the clauses.
3	Warning / condition	otherwise	If we do not fix them, water will be lost.
4	Clarification	in other words	Explains what modern irrigation means in practice.
5	Addition	Besides	Another measure is added. (Therefore is also possible, so the box word left over is therefore.)
6	Time; mid-sentence	until	The problem continues up to the time citizens act.

Completed passage: Water is precious in Pakistan. In fact, our rivers are shrinking every year. Some people waste it carelessly, whereas others walk miles to fetch a single bucket. We must fix leaking taps; otherwise, a large amount will be lost every day. Farmers should use modern irrigation; in other words, they should use less water to grow more food. Besides, water saving should be taught in schools. The problem will not end until every citizen plays a part.

Key terms

Connective: Any word or phrase that links words, clauses or sentences: a conjunction, conjunctive adverb, transitional phrase or prepositional connective.
Clause: A group of words with its own subject and verb.
Independent (main) clause: A clause that makes complete sense on its own and can stand as a sentence.
Dependent (subordinate) clause: A clause that begins with a subordinating conjunction or relative word and cannot stand alone.
Conjunction: A joining word that links words, phrases or clauses.
Coordinating conjunction: One of the seven FANBOYS words (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) that join items of equal rank.
FANBOYS: Memory word for the coordinating conjunctions: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.
Subordinating conjunction: A word such as because, although, when, if, unless, so that that begins a dependent clause and joins it to a main clause.
Correlative conjunctions: Conjunctions used in fixed pairs: both ... and, either ... or, neither ... nor, not only ... but also, whether ... or, no sooner ... than, hardly ... when.
Conjunctive adverb: An adverb such as however, therefore, moreover that links the meaning of two main clauses; it needs a full stop or semicolon before it and usually a comma after it.
Transitional device: A word or phrase that shows the logical relation between ideas (time, addition, contrast, cause and effect, sequence, emphasis, example, comparison, conclusion, clarification).
Cohesion: The clear linking of sentences so that a text reads as one connected whole.
Comma splice: The error of joining two main clauses with only a comma, for example It was late, however we stayed.
Parallelism (parallel structure): Using the same grammatical form for items joined by a conjunction or correlative pair.
Proximity rule: With either ... or, neither ... nor, not only ... but also, the verb agrees with the subject nearer to it.
Inversion: Putting the helping verb before the subject, as in a question; required after no sooner, hardly, scarcely, not only, nor at the start of a clause.
Concession: A relation in which the main clause is true in spite of what the dependent clause says (although, even though).
Purpose clause: A clause that gives the aim of an action, introduced by so that, in order that, lest.

Practice MCQs

New MCQs in FBISE style on conjunctions and transitional devices. Each reason names the rule.

Which of the following is a coordinating conjunction?

Abecause
Balthough
CyetAnswer
Dunless

Why

Yet is one of the seven FANBOYS coordinating conjunctions. The other three begin dependent clauses, so they are subordinating.

"She wanted to go to the concert, ______ she had to study for her exam." Choose the correct conjunction.

Aso
BbutAnswer
Cfor
Dor

Why

Wanting to go and having to study pull in opposite directions: contrast, so but.

"He did not attend the meeting, ______ did he send an apology."

Aor
BnorAnswer
Cand
Dso

Why

After a negative clause, nor adds a second negative and takes inverted order (did he send).

Which sentence is punctuated correctly?

AThe shops were closed, we went home.
BThe shops were closed so, we went home.
CThe shops were closed, so we went home.Answer
DThe shops were closed; so, we went home.

Why

Two main clauses joined by a FANBOYS conjunction take a comma before the conjunction. A is a comma splice.

"We rushed to the station ______ we could catch the last train."

Aso
Bso thatAnswer
Cbecause
Dtherefore

Why

could catch shows the aim of rushing: purpose, so so that. Plain so would show a result.

"______ you work hard, you will not pass."

AIf
BUnlessAnswer
CBecause
DAlthough

Why

Unless means if not: if you do not work hard, you will not pass. If would give the opposite meaning.

"Unless you ______ early, you will miss the bus."

Ado not leave
Bwill leave
CleaveAnswer
Dleft

Why

Unless already contains not, and a condition clause about the future uses the present tense: leave.

"Walk carefully lest you ______."

Amay not fall
Bshould fallAnswer
Cwill not fall
Dfell

Why

Lest means so that ... not and is followed by should + base verb, never by not.

"______ it was raining heavily, the match was not cancelled."

ABecause
BAlthoughAnswer
CSince
DSo that

Why

Rain would normally stop a match, but it did not: concession, so Although.

"Ali is very tall, ______ his brother is quite short."

AwhereasAnswer
Bbecause
Cso that
Dunless

Why

Whereas compares two contrasting facts about different people.

In "Since it was a holiday, the roads were empty," the conjunction since shows:

Atime
BreasonAnswer
Cpurpose
Dcondition

Why

Here since means because: the holiday is the reason the roads were empty. (Since 2020 would show time.)

"I will phone you as soon as I ______ Lahore."

Awill reach
BreachAnswer
Creached
Dwould reach

Why

After time conjunctions such as as soon as, when, before, use the present tense for a future event.

"The tea was ______ hot that I could not drink it."

Asuch
Btoo
CsoAnswer
Dvery

Why

so + adjective + that shows result. such is used before a noun phrase (such hot tea that).

"He talks as if he ______ the principal."

Ais
Bwas being
CwereAnswer
Dhas been

Why

As if for an unreal comparison takes were for all persons.

"No sooner had the teacher entered ______ the students stood up."

Awhen
BthanAnswer
Cthen
Dthat

Why

No sooner always pairs with than.

"Hardly had we reached home ______ it started to rain."

Athan
BwhenAnswer
Cthen
Dsince

Why

Hardly and scarcely pair with when (or before), never with than.

"Neither the players nor the coach ______ happy with the result."

Awere
Bare
CwasAnswer
Dhave been

Why

With neither ... nor, the verb agrees with the nearer subject: the coach is singular, so was.

"Either my sisters or my mother ______ going to cook the Eid lunch."

AisAnswer
Bare
Cwere
Dhave

Why

Proximity rule: the nearer subject my mother is singular, so is.

"Both Hina and Sana ______ selected for the team."

Awas
Bhas been
Cis
DwereAnswer

Why

Both ... and always makes a plural subject.

"The captain, as well as the players, ______ present at the ceremony."

Awere
Bare
CwasAnswer
Dhave been

Why

With as well as, the verb agrees with the first subject (the captain); the phrase between commas is extra.

Which sentence shows correct parallel structure?

AShe is not only clever but also works hard.
BShe is not only clever but also hard-working.Answer
CShe not only is clever but also hard-working.
DNot only she is clever but also hard-working.

Why

The words after not only and but also must match: two adjectives (clever, hard-working).

"I cannot decide ______ to study medicine or engineering."

Aeither
BwhetherAnswer
Cneither
Dboth

Why

Two possibilities after a verb like decide take whether ... or.

"Not only ______ the match, but he also broke the record."

Ahe won
Bdid he winAnswer
Che did win
Dwon he

Why

When not only begins a sentence, the helping verb comes before the subject: did he win.

"I would rather walk ______ wait for a rickshaw."

Athen
BthanAnswer
Cthat
Dor

Why

Rather pairs with than to show preference. Then is a time word.

Which sentence is punctuated correctly?

AHe was tired, however he kept working.
BHe was tired; however, he kept working.Answer
CHe was tired however, he kept working.
DHe was tired, however, he kept working.

Why

However is a conjunctive adverb: it needs a semicolon or full stop before it and a comma after it. A and D are comma splices.

"The school was closed ______ heavy snowfall."

Abecause
Balthough
Cdue toAnswer
Dso that

Why

A noun phrase (heavy snowfall) follows, so a preposition is needed: due to. Because needs a clause.

"______ the heavy traffic, we reached the airport on time."

AAlthough
BDespiteAnswer
CDespite of
DHowever

Why

A noun phrase follows, so the preposition Despite. Despite of is always wrong; Although needs a clause.

Choose the transitional device of addition:

Anevertheless
BmoreoverAnswer
Cconsequently
Dmeanwhile

Why

Moreover adds another point. The others show contrast, result and time.

Choose the transitional device of contrast:

Afurthermore
Blikewise
Con the other handAnswer
Dfor instance

Why

On the other hand shows the opposite side; the others show addition, comparison and example.

"He did not revise at all; ______, he failed the test."

Ahowever
BconsequentlyAnswer
Cfor example
Dmeanwhile

Why

Failing is the result of not revising: cause and effect, so consequently.

"Mother was cooking the dinner. ______, father was setting the table."

ATherefore
BMeanwhileAnswer
CIn contrast
DFor example

Why

Two actions at the same time: Meanwhile (time).

"He is not lazy. ______, he is the most hard-working boy in class."

AIn contrast
BOn the contraryAnswer
CSimilarly
DAs a result

Why

On the contrary rejects the previous (negative) statement and states the opposite is true.

"Many fruits are rich in vitamin C, ______ oranges and guavas."

Afor example
Bsuch asAnswer
Cin other words
Dmoreover

Why

Such as follows a noun and lists examples without a comma after it; for example needs a comma and usually starts a new clause.

"Plants need sunlight to grow. ______, human beings need love to flourish."

ASimilarlyAnswer
BHowever
CTherefore
DFinally

Why

The second idea matches the first in another case: comparison, so Similarly.

"He is very economical. ______, he spends money carefully."

ANevertheless
BIn other wordsAnswer
COtherwise
DIn contrast

Why

The second sentence says the same thing more simply: clarification, In other words.

Which transitional device shows emphasis?

Aafterwards
Bin factAnswer
Cwhereas
Dlastly

Why

In fact adds a stronger truth to the previous statement. The others show time, contrast and sequence.

"Pack your bags early; ______, you will miss the flight."

Amoreover
BotherwiseAnswer
Csimilarly
Dindeed

Why

The clause gives a warning of what happens if you do not act: otherwise (= if not).

"She tried many times. ______, after months of practice, she won the competition."

AEventuallyAnswer
BMoreover
CFor instance
DWhereas

Why

Eventually means in the end after a long time or effort: time.

Which device introduces the last point of an essay's conclusion?

AFirstly
BIn conclusionAnswer
CFor example
DMeanwhile

Why

In conclusion signals the final summary. Firstly begins a sequence.

"The team practised every day; ______, they won the trophy." The blank needs a device of:

Acontrast
Bcause and effectAnswer
Cexample
Dtime

Why

Daily practice led to winning: effect. As a result or therefore fits.

Identify the error: "Although the road was blocked, but we reached on time."

AAlthough
Bwas blocked
CbutAnswer
Don time

Why

Although and but both show contrast; using both is double linking. Remove but.

"The reason for his absence is ______ he was ill."

Abecause
BthatAnswer
Cdue to
Dsince

Why

The reason ... is that; the reason is because repeats the idea of cause and is considered wrong.

"She plays the guitar ______ the piano."

Aas well asAnswer
Bmoreover
Cfurthermore
Dhowever

Why

Two nouns are joined, so the phrase connective as well as. Moreover and furthermore are sentence adverbs.

In "I will help you if you need me," the word if is a:

Acoordinating conjunction
Bsubordinating conjunctionAnswer
Cpreposition
Dconjunctive adverb

Why

If begins the dependent clause if you need me (condition), so it is a subordinating conjunction.

"Scarcely had he left the house ______ it began to snow."

Athan
BwhenAnswer
Cthat
Dthen

Why

Scarcely ... when (or before).

Q7 practice: paper-style passages

Five full Q7 tasks (five marks each) with the completed passage and a reason for every blank.

15 marks

Fill in the blanks using the correct transitional devices based on the given clue/types of transition. (Any FIVE)

Ahmed wanted to join the cricket academy in Lahore. (1: Time) ______, he practised in the street with his friends. His parents were worried about his studies; (2: Contrast) ______, they allowed him to try out. He woke up at five every morning (3: Cause and effect) ______ he wanted to be fit for the trials. (4: Sequence) ______, the day of the trials came. The coaches were impressed by his bowling; (5: Emphasis) ______, they called him the fastest young bowler they had seen. He was selected, (6: Addition) ______ he was given a scholarship.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) Meanwhile; (2) however; (3) because; (4) Finally; (5) indeed; (6) and.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Time	Meanwhile	What he did during the waiting period; adverb at the start of a sentence, comma after it.	In the meantime, Until then
2	Contrast	however	Worry would suggest refusal, yet they allowed him; adverb after a semicolon, small letter.	nevertheless, still
3	Cause and effect	because	The second clause gives the reason for waking early; a conjunction joins the two clauses.	as, since
4	Sequence	Finally	The last stage of the story; adverb + comma.	At last, Then
5	Emphasis	indeed	Strengthens impressed with a stronger statement.	in fact
6	Addition	and	Joins two main clauses after a comma; an adverb such as moreover cannot follow a comma alone.	and also

Completed passage: Ahmed wanted to join the cricket academy in Lahore. Meanwhile, he practised in the street with his friends. His parents were worried about his studies; however, they allowed him to try out. He woke up at five every morning because he wanted to be fit for the trials. Finally, the day of the trials came. The coaches were impressed by his bowling; indeed, they called him the fastest young bowler they had seen. He was selected, and he was given a scholarship.

25 marks

Fill in the blanks using the correct transitional devices based on the given clue/types of transition. (Any FIVE)

Smog has become a serious problem in Lahore. Factories release harmful smoke; (1: Addition) ______, crop burning adds to the pollution. The government has issued many warnings; (2: Contrast) ______, people still burn rubbish in the open. (3: Time) ______ the smog is thick, schools have to close. Children suffer the most (4: Cause and effect) ______ their lungs are still developing. To solve the problem, the government must (5: Sequence) ______ ban crop burning and then control factory smoke. (6: Emphasis) ______, every citizen must plant trees.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) moreover; (2) nevertheless; (3) When; (4) because; (5) first; (6) Above all.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Addition	moreover	A second cause of pollution is added; small letter after a semicolon.	furthermore, in addition, besides
2	Contrast	nevertheless	Warnings were issued, but people ignore them. still in the clause shows the contrast is expected.	however, yet
3	Time	When	Introduces a time clause that is followed by the main clause.	Whenever
4	Cause and effect	because	The second clause explains why children suffer more.	as, since
5	Sequence	first	Paired with and then later in the sentence: the first step.	firstly
6	Emphasis	Above all	Gives the most important measure; phrase + comma at the start.	Most importantly, Indeed

Completed passage: Smog has become a serious problem in Lahore. Factories release harmful smoke; moreover, crop burning adds to the pollution. The government has issued many warnings; nevertheless, people still burn rubbish in the open. When the smog is thick, schools have to close. Children suffer the most because their lungs are still developing. To solve the problem, the government must first ban crop burning and then control factory smoke. Above all, every citizen must plant trees.

35 marks

Fill in the blanks using the correct transitional devices based on the given clue/types of transition. (Any FIVE)

Making chai is simple. (1: Sequence) ______, boil a cup of water in a pan. Add tea leaves; (2: Addition) ______, you can add a crushed cardamom for flavour. (3: Time) ______ the water turns dark, pour in the milk. Some people like very sweet tea, (4: Contrast) ______ others prefer it with no sugar at all. Let it boil for two minutes (5: Cause and effect) ______ the flavour becomes strong. (6: Emphasis) ______, never leave the pan unattended, or the milk will boil over.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) First; (2) in addition; (3) As soon as; (4) whereas; (5) so that; (6) Above all.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Sequence	First	The first step of a process; adverb + comma.	Firstly, To begin with
2	Addition	in addition	An extra, optional ingredient; after a semicolon.	moreover, also (without comma: you can also add)
3	Time	As soon as	Introduces a time clause; shows the milk goes in immediately after.	When, Once
4	Contrast	whereas	Compares two groups; a conjunction joins the clauses after the comma.	while, but
5	Cause and effect	so that	Boiling has the purpose of making the flavour strong.	until (time), in order that
6	Emphasis	Above all	The most important warning in the recipe.	Most importantly

Completed passage: Making chai is simple. First, boil a cup of water in a pan. Add tea leaves; in addition, you can add a crushed cardamom for flavour. As soon as the water turns dark, pour in the milk. Some people like very sweet tea, whereas others prefer it with no sugar at all. Let it boil for two minutes so that the flavour becomes strong. Above all, never leave the pan unattended, or the milk will boil over.

45 marks

Fill in the blanks using the correct transitional devices based on the given clue/types of transition. (Any FIVE)

The monsoon rains hit Karachi last August. (1: Time) ______ the rain began, the streets were flooded within an hour. Electricity failed in many areas; (2: Addition) ______, mobile networks stopped working. The city had spent millions on new drains; (3: Contrast) ______, the drains were blocked with plastic bags. The water could not flow away (4: Cause and effect) ______ nobody had cleaned the drains before the season. (5: Sequence) ______, the army was called in to help. (6: Emphasis) ______, it was a lesson that the city must never forget.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) As soon as; (2) furthermore; (3) however; (4) because; (5) Then; (6) Indeed.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Time	As soon as	Shows the flooding started immediately after the rain; conjunction + clause.	When, Once
2	Addition	furthermore	A second failure is added; after a semicolon.	moreover, in addition
3	Contrast	however	Money was spent, but the drains still did not work.	nevertheless, nonetheless
4	Cause and effect	because	Gives the reason the water could not flow away.	since, as
5	Sequence	Then	The next event in the story.	Next, After that, Finally
6	Emphasis	Indeed	Strengthens the final comment.	In fact, Undoubtedly

Completed passage: The monsoon rains hit Karachi last August. As soon as the rain began, the streets were flooded within an hour. Electricity failed in many areas; furthermore, mobile networks stopped working. The city had spent millions on new drains; however, the drains were blocked with plastic bags. The water could not flow away because nobody had cleaned the drains before the season. Then, the army was called in to help. Indeed, it was a lesson that the city must never forget.

55 marks

Use appropriate transitional devices from the given list in any five of the blanks to make the passage cohesive. Use each device only once.

Animals use various means to protect themselves. Colour is one that is widely used as a protective device. Some birds display brightly coloured feathers (1) ______ they are threatened. These are designed to frighten away the enemy. (2) ______ to colour, some animals give off a peculiar smell for the same purpose. (3) ______, shape may be used to hide the animal. Some insects, (4) ______, hide themselves by looking like plants or flowers. They are hardly visible (5) ______ they merge into their surroundings. Some animals pretend to be dead, (6) ______ others just stand completely still.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) whenever; (2) In addition; (3) Besides; (4) for example; (5) because; (6) whereas.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Time (every time)	whenever	Joins two clauses; the birds do it every time they are threatened.	when
2	Addition + preposition to	In addition	In addition to + noun (colour) adds another means.
3	Addition at sentence start	Besides	Adds a third means; adverb + comma.
4	Example, between commas	for example	Insects are one example of animals that use shape.
5	Cause	because	Explains why they are hardly visible.
6	Contrast of two groups	whereas	Compares two behaviours; conjunction after a comma.

Completed passage: Animals use various means to protect themselves. Colour is one that is widely used as a protective device. Some birds display brightly coloured feathers whenever they are threatened. These are designed to frighten away the enemy. In addition to colour, some animals give off a peculiar smell for the same purpose. Besides, shape may be used to hide the animal. Some insects, for example, hide themselves by looking like plants or flowers. They are hardly visible because they merge into their surroundings. Some animals pretend to be dead, whereas others just stand completely still.

Note. Adapted from an older FBISE box-type Q7 (Curriculum 2006 sample paper).

FBISE paper questions

Questions from the FBISE HSSC-II 2026 (1st Annual) papers, the old-syllabus paper and FBISE model papers that belong to this unit, answered the way an examiner expects.

2026 Annual I, Set B, Q.1 (2)1 mark

"I stayed home because it was raining." The subordinating conjunction is:

AI
BBecauseAnswer
CHome
DRaining

Why

Because begins the dependent clause because it was raining and joins it to the main clause I stayed home, so it is the subordinating conjunction (reason). I is a pronoun, home an adverb/noun and raining a verb form.

2026 Annual I, Set B, Q.75 marks

Fill in the blanks using the correct transitional devices based on the given clue/types of transition. (Any FIVE)

The team lead started the day by reviewing the monthly targets. (1: Time) ______, the staff began their individual tasks. The workload was quite heavy this week; (2: Addition) ______, two team members were on leave. The employees felt pressured; (3: Contrast) ______, they remained focused on their goals. They collaborated closely on the main project (4: Cause and Effect) ______ they wanted to finish before the deadline. (5: Sequence) ______, they submitted the final report to the director. Everyone felt a sense of relief; (6: Emphasis) ______, it was the most successful project of the year.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) Afterwards; (2) moreover; (3) however; (4) because; (5) Finally; (6) indeed.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Time: the staff started after the review	Afterwards	Shows the next point in time; adverb at the start of a sentence, followed by the printed comma.	Then, Later, Meanwhile (if both happened together)
2	Addition: a second problem	moreover	Heavy workload plus absent members; after a semicolon, so small letter + comma.	furthermore, in addition, besides
3	Contrast: pressure vs focus	however	Pressure would make people lose focus, but they did not; adverb after a semicolon.	nevertheless, nonetheless
4	Cause: the reason for close teamwork	because	The clause after the blank gives the reason; a conjunction joins the two clauses (no comma printed).	as, since
5	Sequence: the last step	Finally	Submitting the report is the last action of the project; adverb + comma.	Lastly, After that, Then
6	Emphasis: a stronger statement	indeed	Relief is strengthened by the most successful project; after a semicolon.	in fact, undoubtedly

Completed passage: The team lead started the day by reviewing the monthly targets. Afterwards, the staff began their individual tasks. The workload was quite heavy this week; moreover, two team members were on leave. The employees felt pressured; however, they remained focused on their goals. They collaborated closely on the main project because they wanted to finish before the deadline. Finally, they submitted the final report to the director. Everyone felt a sense of relief; indeed, it was the most successful project of the year.

2026 Annual I, Set D, Q.75 marks

Fill in the blanks using the correct transitional devices based on the given clue/types of transition. (Any FIVE)

The student spent weeks researching her project on climate change. (1: Time) ______, the day of the presentation arrived and she felt quite nervous. She had practiced her speech many times; (2: Contrast) ______, she still worried she might forget her lines. She took a deep breath (3: Cause and effect) ______ she wanted to stay calm. (4: Sequence) ______, she stood up and began to speak. Her message was clear; (5: Emphasis) ______, it was the most important speech of her life. She finished by sharing a hopeful quote (6: Addition) ______ thanked the audience for their time.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) Eventually; (2) however; (3) because; (4) Then; (5) indeed; (6) and.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Time: after weeks of work	Eventually	Eventually = in the end, after a long time; adverb + comma at the start.	Finally, At last
2	Contrast: practice vs worry	however	Practice should remove worry, but it did not; after a semicolon. The word still supports contrast.	nevertheless, nonetheless
3	Cause: why she took a deep breath	because	The clause after the blank gives her reason; conjunction joining two clauses.	as, since
4	Sequence: the next action	Then	After the deep breath came standing up; start of sentence + comma.	Next, After that
5	Emphasis	indeed	Strengthens clear with a stronger claim; after a semicolon.	in fact
6	Addition: two actions of one subject	and	sharing ... thanked are two verbs of She; and joins the verb finished with thanked. Moreover cannot join two verbs.	and also

Completed passage: The student spent weeks researching her project on climate change. Eventually, the day of the presentation arrived and she felt quite nervous. She had practiced her speech many times; however, she still worried she might forget her lines. She took a deep breath because she wanted to stay calm. Then, she stood up and began to speak. Her message was clear; indeed, it was the most important speech of her life. She finished by sharing a hopeful quote and thanked the audience for their time.

2026 Annual I, Set A, Q.75 marks

Fill in the blanks using the correct transitional devices based on the given clue/types of transition. (Any FIVE)

The principal entered the school hall and noticed the decorations were incomplete. ______ (1: Time) she asked the students for an explanation. The decorations looked vibrant on other occasions; ______ (2: Contrast) today they seemed dull and unfinished. The banners were torn ______ (3: Cause and Effect) the students had rushed through the work. ______ (4: Sequence) she instructed the students to fix everything before the morning assembly. ______ (5: Emphasis) she reminded them that teamwork was important ______ (6: Addition) they could complete tasks efficiently in the future.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) Immediately; (2) however; (3) because; (4) Next; (5) Above all; (6) and that.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Time: right after noticing	Immediately	Shows the action followed at once; adverb at the start, so add a comma.	At that moment, Then
2	Contrast: other occasions vs today	however	Vibrant before, dull today; adverb after a semicolon, small letter + comma.	in contrast, but (weaker after a semicolon)
3	Cause: why the banners were torn	because	The clause after the blank gives the reason; conjunction, no comma.	as, since
4	Sequence: the next step	Next	The following action in the principal's response; adverb + comma.	Then, After that
5	Emphasis: the most important message	Above all	Gives the main lesson with emphasis; phrase + comma at the start.	Most importantly, Indeed
6	Addition: a second thing she reminded them of	and that	Adds a second that clause to reminded them that ...; and is the addition connective that can join two clauses.	and

Completed passage: The principal entered the school hall and noticed the decorations were incomplete. Immediately, she asked the students for an explanation. The decorations looked vibrant on other occasions; however, today they seemed dull and unfinished. The banners were torn because the students had rushed through the work. Next, she instructed the students to fix everything before the morning assembly. Above all, she reminded them that teamwork was important and that they could complete tasks efficiently in the future.

Note. Blank 6 is weakly set: the most natural link is so that (purpose), which belongs to cause and effect, not addition. Under the printed clue Addition, and that (or and) is the answer examiners most likely keyed; so that may also be accepted by a lenient examiner, but it ignores the clue.

2026 Annual I, Old syllabus (Curriculum 2006), Q.1 (2), old syllabus1 mark

I was tired; ______ I went to bed early. Choose the correct transitional device.

AThereforeAnswer
BWhereas
CLeast
DGradually

Why

Going to bed early is the result of being tired, and the blank follows a semicolon, so a conjunctive adverb of result is needed: therefore (strictly written ; therefore, I went). Whereas shows contrast, Least is not a connective and Gradually is an adverb of manner.

2026 Annual I, Old syllabus (Curriculum 2006), Q.7, old syllabus5 marks

Use appropriate transitional devises from the given list in any five of the blank to make the passage cohesive.

Drawing is all about taking the time to takes master each step. ______ mastering the act of the drawing doesn't happen in a day, ______ its a skill that daily practice. ______, it is important not to burn yourself out ______ you need to stick to it ______ you can't achieve the desired goal.

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) In other words; (2) but; (3) Furthermore; (4) while; (5) otherwise.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Clarification: says the first idea again	In other words	Taking time to master each step means the same as mastery does not happen in a day; adverb phrase + comma at the start.
2	Contrast after a comma	but	Not in a day, but by daily practice; a conjunction joins the two clauses after the comma.	while (weaker)
3	Addition at the start of a sentence (comma printed)	Furthermore	Adds a new piece of advice; adverb + comma.	Besides
4	Contrast / balance inside one sentence	while	While (= although, at the same time) balances the two pieces of advice: rest, but keep going.	but (if but is not used in blank 2)
5	Condition / warning	otherwise	If you do not stick to it, you cannot reach the goal; otherwise = if not. Put a semicolon or comma before it.

Completed passage: Drawing is all about taking the time to master each step. In other words, mastering the art of drawing doesn't happen in a day, but it's a skill that needs daily practice. Furthermore, it is important not to burn yourself out, while you need to stick to it; otherwise, you can't achieve the desired goal.

Note. The printed passage has several misprints, and drawing and out are partly hidden at the right edge of the page. Blanks 2 and 4 could be swapped (while in 2, but in 4) and many examiners would accept either order; the key given here is the most natural reading.

Model paper, Q.1 (v)1 mark

"He stayed home ___ it was raining heavily." Choose the conjunction that properly links the ideas:

Atherefore
BbecauseAnswer
Cbut
Dso

Why

It was raining heavily is the reason for staying home, and it comes second, so the reason conjunction because is needed. So and therefore would introduce a result (the wrong direction), and but shows contrast.

Model paper, Q.75 marks

Fill in the blanks using the correct transitional devices based on the given clues/types of transition. (Any FIVE)

The psychiatrist informed the mother that her daughter was addicted to drugs. When the psychiatrist left, the mother went into her room to plan how to handle the crisis. ______(1) she walked into her daughter's room, and she was overwhelmed with sorrow. She saw her daughter; ______(2), she didn't say anything. She loved her daughter ______(3) they were best friends. ______(4), the mother broke the ice: "Dearest daughter, don't ruin your life. ______(5), life is beautiful if you keep your hope alive ______(6) do not give up."

Solution

Answers (any five; all six given): (1) Afterwards; (2) however; (3) because; (4) Finally; (5) Indeed; (6) and.

Reason for each blank
Blank	Clue / relation	Answer	Why it is right	Also accepted
1	Time: after planning in her own room	Afterwards	The next point in time; adverb at the start, so add a comma.	Later, Then
2	Contrast: saw her but said nothing	however	Seeing her daughter would lead us to expect words, but she was silent; adverb after a semicolon, comma printed.	nevertheless, yet
3	Cause: why she loved her	because	Being best friends is the reason; conjunction joining two clauses.	as, since
4	Sequence: the last step after the silence	Finally	After planning, entering and silence, she at last spoke; adverb + comma.	At last, Then, After that
5	Emphasis	Indeed	Strengthens the mother's point that life is worth living.	Believe me, Certainly, Undoubtedly
6	Addition: two instructions	and	keep your hope alive and do not give up are two parallel pieces of advice; and joins them.	and also

Completed passage: The psychiatrist informed the mother that her daughter was addicted to drugs. When the psychiatrist left, the mother went into her room to plan how to handle the crisis. Afterwards, she walked into her daughter's room, and she was overwhelmed with sorrow. She saw her daughter; however, she didn't say anything. She loved her daughter because they were best friends. Finally, the mother broke the ice: "Dearest daughter, don't ruin your life. Indeed, life is beautiful if you keep your hope alive and do not give up."

Exam focus

Q7: fill any five blanks using the clue types Time, Addition, Contrast, Cause and effect, Sequence, Emphasis. (short)
Five marks on every new-syllabus paper; Sets A, B, D and the model paper all used this exact format.
Go to answer
Punctuate conjunctive adverbs correctly: ; however, and . However, (short)
Separates a conjunction slot from an adverb slot in Q7 and is a regular Q5 A error.
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Identify the subordinating conjunction / choose the conjunction that links the ideas. (mcq)
Asked in 2026 Set B (MCQ 2) and the model paper (MCQ v).
Go to answer
Choose the transitional device after a semicolon (I was tired; ______ I went to bed early). (mcq)
Old syllabus 2026 MCQ 2; the same logic solves most Q7 blanks.
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Correlative pairs and inversion: no sooner ... than, hardly ... when, neither ... nor. (mcq)
Fixed-partner questions are quick marks in Q1 and common in Q5 A editing.
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Subject-verb agreement with either ... or, neither ... nor, as well as, both ... and. (mcq)
Links this unit with the agreement MCQs and editing errors.
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Correct double connectives (Although ... but, Because ... so) and comma splices. (short)
Typical connective error in Q5 A (six marks).
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Box-type Q7 (old syllabus): choose from in other words, furthermore, as well as, besides, otherwise, but, while. (short)
Old-syllabus 2026 paper used a box with extra words; the grammar-slot check removes the distractors.
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