SSC CGL 2026 PYQ — Question 86

SSC CGL Tier II - 19 Jan 2026 - Shift 1 • English • Q86

Select the correct direct form of the given sentence.

I asked Mary if she would lend me a pencil.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is Option 2 i.e. I said, "Mary, will you lend me a pencil?".

Changes required:

  • Conjunction: “if” is removed in direct speech

  • Pronoun change: “she” → “you” (speaker directly addressing Mary)

  • Tense change: “would” → “will” (backshift reversed)

  • Reporting verb: “asked” → “said” (acceptable in direct form with question tone)

Converted sentence: I said, "Mary, will you lend me a pencil?"

Hence, the chosen option is correct.