Welcome to FreshNote CBT practice for GST 101. If you're a first-year student in any Nigerian university, GST 101 is probably one of the courses giving you sleepless nights right now. Use of English and Communication Skills – that's what GST 101 stands for, and it's compulsory across all universities in Nigeria as long as NUC is concern. Here we've provided free GST course materials including past questions/simulated CBT for your practice.
Whether you're studying at UNILAG, University of Nigeria Nsukka, University of Ibadan, NOUN, OAU, UNIBEN, or any other institution, this course is non-negotiable. The good news? This guide will show you everything you need to know about GST 101 past questions and how to use them to pass excellently.
What is GST 101?
GST 101 (Use of English and Communication Skills) is a foundational General Studies course designed to develop students' proficiency in English language usage and communication. The course aims to equip students with essential skills needed for academic success and professional communication.
The curriculum typically covers:
- The nature, origin, and functions of language
- Grammar fundamentals: parts of speech, tenses, and sentence structure
- Punctuation and spelling rules
- Vocabulary development: synonyms, antonyms, and word usage
- Reading comprehension and critical analysis
- Paragraph and essay writing
- Summary writing techniques
- Oral communication and presentation skills
- Listening skills and note-taking
This course is critical because English serves as the medium of instruction for virtually all academic work in Nigerian universities. A strong foundation in GST 101 will improve your performance across all other courses.
Understanding GST 101 Exam Structure
Most Nigerian universities have transitioned to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for GST 101 examinations, though some still use paper-based formats. Here's what you should expect:
Typical Exam Format:
- Question type: Multiple-choice (objective)
- Number of questions: 50-100 questions (varies by institution)
- Duration: 30-60 minutes
- Marking scheme: 1 mark per correct answer
- Negative marking: Some universities deduct marks for wrong answers
Common Question Categories:
-
Grammar and Usage (40-50%)
- Identifying correct sentences
- Choosing appropriate verb forms
- Subject-verb agreement
- Correct use of prepositions
- Active and passive voice
-
Vocabulary (20-30%)
- Synonyms and antonyms
- Word meaning in context
- Idiomatic expressions
- Appropriate word choice
-
Comprehension (15-25%)
- Understanding passages
- Making inferences
- Identifying main ideas
- Drawing conclusions
-
Punctuation and Mechanics (10-15%)
- Comma usage
- Apostrophes
- Capitalization rules
- Quotation marks
Sample GST 101 Past Questions with Detailed Answers
Let's examine real questions that commonly appear in GST 101 exams across Nigerian universities:
Question 1: Language Origin
The term "communication" is derived from the Latin word:
A. Communis
B. Communicare
C. Communium
D. Communicatus
Answer: B (Communicare)
Explanation: "Communicare" is the Latin root meaning "to share" or "to make common," which forms the basis of modern communication theory.
Question 2: Parts of Speech
Identify the word that is NOT a part of speech:
A. Pronoun
B. Interjection
C. Phrase
D. Preposition
Answer: C (Phrase)
Explanation: The eight parts of speech are: noun, pronoun, verb, adjective, adverb, preposition, conjunction, and interjection. A phrase is a group of words, not a part of speech.
Question 3: Subject-Verb Agreement
Choose the grammatically correct sentence:
A. The committee have made their decision.
B. The committee has made its decision.
C. The committee has made their decision.
D. The committee have made its decision.
Answer: B
Explanation: "Committee" is a collective noun treated as singular when acting as one unit, requiring "has" and "its."
Question 4: Vocabulary - Antonyms
What is the antonym of "benevolent"?
A. Generous
B. Kind
C. Malevolent
D. Charitable
Answer: C (Malevolent)
Explanation: Benevolent means kind and well-meaning. Malevolent means having evil intentions – the direct opposite.
Question 5: Sentence Correction
Which sentence is correct?
A. Between you and I, this is wrong.
B. Between you and me, this is wrong.
C. Among you and I, this is wrong.
D. Among you and me, this is wrong.
Answer: B
Explanation: After prepositions like "between," we use object pronouns ("me"), not subject pronouns ("I").
Question 6: Tense Usage
Complete the sentence: "By next month, I _______ here for five years."
A. will work
B. will be working
C. will have worked
D. will have been working
Answer: D
Explanation: This requires future perfect continuous tense to show an action that will continue up to a point in the future.
Question 7: Punctuation
Which sentence is correctly punctuated?
A. The students books are on the table.
B. The students' books are on the table.
C. The student's books are on the table.
D. The students book's are on the table.
Answer: B or C (depending on context)
Explanation: If multiple students own books, use "students'" (B). If one student owns books, use "student's" (C).
Question 8: Paragraph Development
The most important element of a well-developed paragraph is:
A. Length and complexity
B. A clear topic sentence
C. Use of difficult vocabulary
D. Multiple unrelated ideas
Answer: B
Explanation: Every effective paragraph needs a topic sentence that states the main idea clearly.
Question 9: Reading Comprehension
Passage: "Despite technological advances, face-to-face communication remains vital in building trust and understanding nuances that digital messages cannot convey."
The author suggests that:
A. Technology has replaced human interaction
B. Digital communication is superior
C. Direct interaction has unique advantages
D. Technology is harmful
Answer: C
Explanation: The passage emphasizes that face-to-face communication has qualities ("building trust and understanding nuances") that technology cannot replicate.
Question 10: Preposition Usage
Fill in the blank: "She is good _____ mathematics."
A. in
B. at
C. on
D. with
Answer: B
Explanation: The correct idiom is "good at" when referring to skills or subjects.
Why Past Questions Are Essential for GST 101
Nigerian universities often recycle questions from previous years, sometimes with minor modifications. Here's why practicing past questions is crucial:
Pattern Recognition
Past questions reveal how examiners phrase questions and structure answer options. This familiarity reduces exam anxiety and improves response speed.
Content Focus
By studying past questions, you identify which topics receive the most emphasis. If conditional sentences appear frequently, you know to prioritize that topic.
Time Management
Practicing with timed past questions helps you develop pacing strategies. You'll learn which questions to answer quickly and which require more thought.
Self-Assessment
Past questions help you identify weak areas. If you consistently miss vocabulary questions, you know where to focus your study efforts.
Confidence Building
Familiarity with question types reduces test anxiety. Walking into the exam having already practiced similar questions gives you a psychological advantage.
How to Effectively Use GST 101 Past Questions
Simply reading past questions isn't enough. Here's a strategic approach:
1. Simulate Exam Conditions
Set a timer matching your exam duration. Work in a quiet environment without notes or distractions. This builds stamina and time management skills.
2. Analyze Your Mistakes
Don't just note wrong answers – understand why you got them wrong. Was it a knowledge gap, misreading the question, or test anxiety?
3. Topic-Based Practice
Instead of random practice, focus on one topic per session:
- Monday: Grammar and sentence structure
- Tuesday: Vocabulary (synonyms/antonyms)
- Wednesday: Comprehension passages
- Thursday: Punctuation and mechanics
- Friday: Mixed practice test
4. Review Regularly
Space out your practice sessions. Reviewing topics multiple times over weeks is more effective than cramming everything in one day.
5. Track Your Progress
Keep a log of your practice test scores. Seeing improvement motivates continued effort and highlights persistent problem areas.
6. Learn from Correct Answers
Don't just study what you got wrong. Understand why correct answers are right, especially when you guessed correctly.
Common GST 101 Topics That Appear Frequently
Based on analysis of past questions from multiple Nigerian universities, these topics appear most frequently:
Grammar (High Frequency)
- Tenses (especially present perfect and past perfect)
- Subject-verb agreement
- Active vs. passive voice
- Direct and indirect speech
- Conditional sentences (if-clauses)
Vocabulary (High Frequency)
- Synonyms (especially for academic words)
- Antonyms
- One-word substitutions
- Homophones (words that sound alike)
Sentence Correction (High Frequency)
- Identifying grammatically correct sentences
- Spotting errors in given sentences
- Choosing appropriate word forms
Communication Theory (Moderate Frequency)
- Elements of communication
- Barriers to effective communication
- Types of communication (verbal, non-verbal, written)
- Communication process models
Reading Skills (Moderate Frequency)
- Identifying main ideas
- Making inferences
- Understanding vocabulary in context
- Recognizing author's tone and purpose
Study Tips for GST 101 Success
Build a Strong Grammar Foundation
GST 101 is fundamentally about grammar. Invest time in understanding basic rules:
- Master the 12 English tenses
- Learn parts of speech thoroughly
- Understand sentence structures (simple, compound, complex)
- Study common preposition combinations
Read Widely
Regular reading improves vocabulary, comprehension, and intuitive understanding of correct English:
- Newspapers (The Guardian, Punch, Vanguard)
- Academic journals in your field
- Quality blogs and online articles
- Classic literature (even short stories help)
Practice Writing
Writing reinforces grammar rules and improves communication skills:
- Write daily summaries of articles you read
- Practice paragraph development on various topics
- Keep a journal in English
- Draft emails and messages carefully
Use Multiple Resources
Don't rely on a single textbook:
- Past question compilations from your university
- English grammar textbooks (e.g., "English Grammar in Use" by Raymond Murphy)
- Online grammar resources
- YouTube channels teaching English grammar
Form Study Groups
Collaborative learning reinforces understanding:
- Quiz each other with past questions
- Explain difficult concepts to peers
- Share different approaches to similar questions
- Motivate each other during preparation
Attend Classes Regularly
Lecturers often hint at exam focus areas during lectures. They might emphasize certain topics or provide practice questions that reflect exam content.
Free Resources for GST 101 Past Questions
Several platforms offer free access to GST 101 past questions:
1. University Libraries
Most university libraries maintain collections of past exam papers. Visit your library's reserved section or ask librarians for assistance.
2. Departmental Notice Boards
Student associations often post past questions on departmental notice boards or distribute them during orientation programs.
3. Senior Students
Connect with students who've successfully completed GST 101. They often share materials and provide advice on exam preparation.
4. Online CBT Platforms
Several websites offer free Computer-Based Test practice:
- They simulate actual exam conditions
- Provide instant feedback on answers
- Allow unlimited practice attempts
- Cover multiple Nigerian universities
- Work on mobile devices
5. WhatsApp and Telegram Study Groups
Many university-specific groups share past questions and study materials. Join groups for your institution to access these resources.
University-Specific GST 101 Variations
While GST 101 content is similar across Nigerian universities, there are subtle differences:
UNILAG (University of Lagos)
Emphasizes communication theory and practical applications. Expect more questions on communication barriers and models.
UNN (University of Nigeria, Nsukka)
Focuses heavily on grammar fundamentals. Their exams often include more sentence correction questions.
UI (University of Ibadan)
Balances grammar with comprehension passages. Expect longer reading passages with multiple questions.
NOUN (National Open University)
Uses predominantly CBT format. Questions are straightforward but cover a broad range of topics.
OAU (Obafemi Awolowo University)
Includes questions on phonetics and phonology. Study pronunciation and sound patterns if you're at OAU.
UNIBEN (University of Benin)
Emphasizes practical communication skills. Expect scenario-based questions about effective communication.
Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing for GST 101
Procrastination
Don't wait until two weeks before exams to start studying. GST 101 requires consistent practice, not last-minute cramming.
Ignoring Weak Areas
If vocabulary is your weakness, avoiding it won't help. Address weak areas early in your preparation.
Over-Reliance on Guessing
While educated guesses have their place, building actual knowledge is more reliable for consistent success.
Neglecting Time Management
Practice answering questions within time limits. Many students know the material but run out of time during exams.
Using Outdated Materials
Language usage evolves. While old past questions are helpful, supplement them with current resources.
Skipping Instructions
Carefully read exam instructions. Some questions require you to identify incorrect options, not correct ones.
Exam Day Strategies
Before the Exam
- Get adequate sleep (at least 7 hours)
- Eat a light, nutritious meal
- Arrive early to avoid stress
- Bring required materials (ID card, admission slip)
- Visit the restroom beforehand
During the Exam
- Read all instructions carefully before starting
- Quickly scan all questions first
- Answer easier questions first to build confidence
- For difficult questions, eliminate obviously wrong options
- Manage your time (if 60 minutes for 60 questions, spend approximately 1 minute per question)
- Review answers if time permits
For CBT Specifically
- Familiarize yourself with the computer interface beforehand
- Be careful with mouse clicks – accidental clicks count as answers
- Most CBT systems don't allow you to return to previous questions
- Stay calm if technical issues occur – inform invigilators immediately
Beyond GST 101: Building Long-Term Communication Skills
GST 101 isn't just about passing an exam – it's about developing communication skills that will serve you throughout your university career and professional life.
Continue Reading
Make reading a lifelong habit. It's the foundation of strong communication skills.
Practice Writing Regularly
Every assignment, email, and report is an opportunity to improve your writing.
Seek Feedback
Ask professors and peers to critique your written work. Constructive criticism helps you grow.
Expand Your Vocabulary
Learn new words daily. Use them in conversations and writing to make them stick.
Stay Updated on Language Usage
English evolves constantly. Stay current with new words and changing usage patterns.
Conclusion
GST 101 is a foundational course that sets the tone for your entire university experience. While it may seem challenging initially, consistent practice with past questions, strategic studying, and genuine effort to improve your English skills will lead to success.
Remember that past questions are tools for learning, not shortcuts to avoid actual studying. Use them to identify patterns, assess your knowledge, and build confidence – but always aim to develop genuine understanding of English language principles.
Start your preparation early, practice regularly with past questions, and approach the exam with confidence. GST 101 is absolutely passable when you prepare properly. Your success in this course will not only improve your GPA but also enhance your communication abilities for years to come.
The resources are available on our E-library, the strategies are proven, and thousands of students before you have succeeded. Now it's your turn. Begin practicing with past questions today, and you'll be well on your way to excelling in GST 101. You can also check out JUPEB free CBT practice
