The company _______ rapidly since the new CEO took charge last year.

5
reading

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A

has grown

B

grew

C

was growing

D

had grown

Correct Answer: A

Choice A is the best answer. This question tests present perfect tense.

  1. Context clues: "Since... last year" indicates an action from past continuing to present.
  2. Meaning: Present perfect connects past actions to the present.
  3. Verify: "has grown since" correctly shows ongoing growth from past to now.

💡 Strategy: Use present perfect with "since" + past point.

Choice B is incorrect because simple past doesn't connect to present. Choice C is incorrect because past progressive doesn't connect to present. Choice D is incorrect because past perfect is for actions before another past action.