SAT Question

[Jessica]

The following sentence contains either a single error or no error at all. If the sentence contains an error, select the one underlined part that must be changed to make the sentence correct. If the sentence contains no error, select choice E.

This is today's Official SAT Question, and I need a bit of help.

(A) Formerly called manacles or shackles, handcuffs (B) consist of two metal rings (C) joined by a short chain; once fastened shut, (D) it requires a key to open.

(E) No error

I thought it might be (D), but I'm not sure. I think it should be they require.

[Jessica]

can someone help please!!!!

[AngelicaDeAlquezar]

On principle I agree with you, but I'm not a native speaker.

[Rusty]

That looks like the right answer to me.

[Tomisimo]

I would agree with D.

[brute]

(A) Formerly called manacles or shackles, handcuffs (B) consist of two metal rings (C) joined by a short chain; once fastened shut, (D) it requires a key to open them.

(E) No error



I think the sentence looks strange and should have an object them. Without it, neither option makes sense.

The full sentence would now work equally well with it requires or they require.

This is a badly worded question, leading to ambiguity. Answer D or E, (with a strongly worded letter to the examination board!!!)
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[Jessica]

you're right brute, that is an error, but because it's not underlined, it's not a choice. One of the things I learned is that there may be other errors in the sentence, but you can only chose the ones that are underlined.