A sentence is provided in indirect speech. From the four given options, choose the one that most accurately conveys the sentence in its corresponding direct speech.
The coordinator reminded the team that the deadline extension applied only to those who had submitted a formal request.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
“The extension is granted only to those who made formal requests,” the coordinator said.
Explanation
Rule: When converting back to direct speech, the past perfect tense ("had submitted") shifts to its original past simple tense ("made" / "submitted").
Application: Option 3 matches the meaning perfectly, tracking the structural change of the past perfect continuous reporting style back to a clean, active past statement.