Lesson 1: Thinking & Learning Phrasal Verbs: Extra Practice 2 (C1)

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October 28, 2025
General English

Master thinking and learning phrasal verbs with 5 ultra-interactive exercises. Progress from accuracy drills to free production. Perfect for C1 learners with detailed explanations. - LingExam Language Academy - Lingexam.com

Thinking & Learning Phrasal Verbs — Step-by-Step Tutorial

Master phrasal verbs for thinking, learning, understanding, and idea generation with clear meanings, grammar notes, natural examples with explanations, and practical tips. Everything stacks vertically for easy reading.

Level: B1–B2+ Topic: Thinking & Learning Format: Single-column (below one another)

`brush up (on)`

Core idea: practise and improve your skills or knowledge of something you learned before.

Inseparable Use: refresh knowledge Pattern: brush up on + noun/gerund

Examples + explanations

I need to brush up on my Spanish before my trip to Mexico. The speaker learned Spanish before but hasn't used it recently, so they want to refresh their knowledge.
She's brushing up on her presentation skills for the conference. She already has presentation skills but wants to improve them before an important event.
Let me brush up on the company's history before the interview. Quick review of information to be better prepared.
I brushed up on chemistry over the summer. Reviewed and refreshed previously learned material during a break.

Tip: Often used before exams, interviews, or when returning to something after a break. Implies you already have some knowledge, just need to refresh it.

`read up (on/about)`

Core idea: get information on a particular subject by reading a lot about it.

Inseparable Use: research & study Pattern: read up on/about + noun

Examples + explanations

I'm reading up on climate change for my essay. The person is actively researching by reading multiple sources to gain comprehensive knowledge.
You should read up about the company before your job interview. Advice to gather information through reading to be well-prepared.
He spent the weekend reading up on investment strategies. Dedicated time to learning through reading materials.
I need to read up on the new tax regulations. Intentional study of new information through reading.

Tip: Suggests thorough, intentional research. Often used when preparing for something important. More formal than "look up."

`swot up (on)` [British English]

Core idea: study something very hard, especially for an examination.

Inseparable British English Use: intensive exam prep Pattern: swot up on + noun

Examples + explanations

I need to swot up on chemistry before the final exam. Intensive, focused studying specifically for exam preparation.
She's been swotting up on French verbs all week. Concentrated, repeated study of a specific topic.
They're swotting up on past exam papers. Studying previous tests to prepare for an upcoming one.
I swotted up on the material the night before. Last-minute intensive studying.

Tip: Primarily British English (Americans might say "cram"). Implies intensive, sometimes last-minute studying. Often associated with exam preparation.

`take in`

Core ideas: A) understand and remember something that you hear or read. B) accept something as real or true. C) trick someone into believing something false.

Separable Multiple meanings Pattern: take in + noun / take + noun + in

Examples + explanations

There was so much information in the lecture; I couldn't take it all in. The amount of information was overwhelming, making it difficult to understand and remember everything.
She paused to let the students take in what she had just explained. Giving time for comprehension and mental processing.
It took me a while to take in the news that I'd won the scholarship. Accepting and processing surprising or significant information.
Don't be taken in by his promises; he never keeps them. Being tricked or deceived into believing something false.

Warning: Can mean both understanding AND being deceived (context matters!). Often used with "couldn't" or "can't" to express difficulty understanding.

`figure out`

Core idea: be able to understand something or solve a problem; understand what someone is like and why they behave the way they do.

Separable Very common Pattern: figure out + noun/clause / figure + noun + out

Examples + explanations

I can't figure out how this software works. Struggling to understand the operation or logic of something.
She finally figured out the answer to the math problem. Successfully solved a problem after thinking about it.
It took me years to figure him out. Understanding someone's personality, motivations, or behavior patterns.
Can you figure out what time we need to leave? Calculating or determining information through reasoning.

Tip: Very common in everyday English. Can be separated: "figure it out" or "figure out the problem." Implies a process of reasoning or problem-solving.

`make out`

Core idea: see, hear, or understand someone or something with difficulty; suggest or imply something.

Separable Emphasizes difficulty Pattern: make out + noun/clause / make + noun + out

Examples + explanations

I can barely make out what he's saying; the connection is terrible. Difficulty hearing clearly due to poor phone/video quality.
Can you make out the writing on this old document? Trying to read something that's faded, unclear, or in difficult handwriting.
I couldn't make out whether she was joking or serious. Difficulty understanding someone's intentions or meaning.
He made out that he was an expert, but he wasn't. Suggested or implied something (often falsely).

Tip: Emphasizes difficulty in perception or understanding. Often used with "can/could" + "barely/hardly." Note: "make out" also means "kiss" in informal American English!

`puzzle out`

Core idea: solve a confusing or complicated problem by thinking carefully about it.

Separable Emphasizes mystery Pattern: puzzle out + noun / puzzle + noun + out

Examples + explanations

I'm trying to puzzle out why the experiment failed. Analyzing a confusing situation to find the cause or solution.
She puzzled out the riddle after thinking about it for hours. Solved something difficult through persistent mental effort.
We need to puzzle out how these ancient people built this structure. Trying to understand something mysterious or complex.
It took me a while to puzzle it out, but I finally understood. Successfully solved something confusing after effort.

Tip: Suggests something is confusing or mysterious. Implies careful, methodical thinking. Similar to "figure out" but emphasizes the puzzling nature of the problem.

`piece together`

Core idea: learn the truth about something by considering all the separate bits of information you have.

Separable Like a jigsaw puzzle Pattern: piece together + noun / piece + noun + together

Examples + explanations

Detectives pieced together what happened from witness statements. Combining different pieces of evidence to understand the complete picture.
I'm trying to piece together the events of that night. Reconstructing a sequence of events from fragmented memories or information.
By piecing together clues from the text, we can understand the author's message. Analyzing separate elements to form a complete understanding.
She pieced the story together from various sources. Assembled a complete narrative from scattered information.

Tip: Like assembling a jigsaw puzzle. Emphasizes gathering scattered information. Often used in investigations, research, or memory recall.

`think over`

Core idea: consider a problem or decision carefully.

Separable Careful consideration Pattern: think over + noun / think + noun + over

Examples + explanations

I need some time to think over your job offer. Requesting time to carefully consider an important decision before responding.
Let me think it over and get back to you tomorrow. Postponing a decision to allow for careful consideration.
She thought over all the options before making her choice. Deliberate, careful evaluation of alternatives.
I've been thinking over what you said, and you're right. Reflecting on someone's words over time.

Tip: Implies taking time for careful consideration. Often used before important decisions. More thoughtful than just "think about."

`think through`

Core idea: consider the facts about something in an organised and thorough way.

Separable Systematic analysis Pattern: think through + noun / think + noun + through

Examples + explanations

You need to think through the consequences before you act. Systematically considering all potential outcomes and implications.
Let's think through this plan step by step. Methodically analyzing each part of a plan in sequence.
I haven't fully thought through how this will affect my family. Acknowledging incomplete analysis of a situation's impacts.
She thought it through carefully before making the decision. Complete, thorough consideration before acting.

Tip: Emphasizes systematic, logical thinking. Suggests considering all aspects and consequences. More thorough than "think over."

`mull over`

Core idea: think carefully about something over a period of time.

Separable Reflective & slow Slightly formal Pattern: mull over + noun / mull + noun + over

Examples + explanations

I've been mulling over your suggestion all week. Spending extended time in contemplation, returning to the thought repeatedly.
He sat quietly, mulling over his options. Deep, reflective thinking, often in a relaxed or contemplative state.
Let me mull it over for a few days before I decide. Requesting time for gradual, unhurried consideration.
She mulled over the problem while walking in the park. Contemplating something during a relaxed activity.

Tip: Suggests slow, reflective thinking. Often implies returning to the thought multiple times. More contemplative than "think over." Slightly more formal/literary.

`think up`

Core idea: invent or imagine something, especially an excuse.

Separable Creative invention Pattern: think up + noun / think + noun + up

Examples + explanations

We need to think up a name for our new product. Creating or inventing something new through imagination.
He's always thinking up excuses for being late. Frequently inventing (often false) explanations.
Can you think up some ideas for the party? Using creativity to generate new concepts or plans.
She thought up a clever solution to the problem. Created an innovative idea through imagination.

Tip: Emphasizes creativity and invention. Sometimes implies something fabricated or not entirely truthful (especially with "excuse"). Similar to "come up with" but slightly more informal.

`come up with`

Core idea: think of something such as an idea or a plan.

Inseparable Very common Pattern: come up with + noun

Examples + explanations

She came up with a brilliant solution to the problem. Successfully produced a creative or effective idea.
I can't come up with any good ideas for the project. Struggling to generate suitable ideas.
Who came up with the idea of having a surprise party? Asking about the originator of an idea.
We need to come up with a plan by Friday. Required to generate an idea within a deadline.

Tip: Very common in everyday English. Implies successful idea generation. Cannot be separated (not "come it up with").

`hit upon`

Core idea: suddenly have an idea; discover something by chance.

Inseparable More formal Sudden/accidental Pattern: hit upon + noun

Examples + explanations

While researching, she hit upon an interesting theory. Unexpectedly discovered something valuable during another activity.
I've hit upon the perfect solution! Sudden realization or inspiration, often with excitement.
Scientists hit upon the discovery quite by accident. Finding something important without specifically looking for it.
He hit upon a new way to solve the equation. Unexpected discovery of a method or approach.

Tip: Emphasizes the sudden or accidental nature. More formal than "come up with." Often implies luck or serendipity. Cannot be separated.

`face up to`

Core idea: accept something and try to deal with it.

Inseparable Courage required Pattern: face up to + noun/gerund

Examples + explanations

He needs to face up to his mistakes and apologize. Accepting responsibility for errors rather than avoiding or denying them.
It's time to face up to the fact that we're losing money. Acknowledging an unpleasant truth that was previously ignored.
She finally faced up to her fear of public speaking. Confronting something difficult rather than avoiding it.
You must face up to the consequences of your actions. Accepting and dealing with the results of one's behavior.

Tip: Implies something difficult or unpleasant. Suggests courage and maturity. Often used with difficult truths or responsibilities.

`come (a)round (to)`

Core idea: change your opinion or decision because someone has persuaded you to agree with them.

Inseparable Gradual change Pattern: come around to + noun/gerund

Examples + explanations

He initially opposed the plan, but he's coming around to it. Gradually changing from disagreement to agreement.
I didn't like the idea at first, but I've come around to your way of thinking. Complete change of opinion after consideration or persuasion.
She'll come around eventually; just give her time. Prediction that someone will change their mind with patience.
After hearing the arguments, I came around to their point of view. Changed opinion after being exposed to reasoning.

Tip: Implies gradual change, not sudden. Often used when someone was initially resistant. Can be used without "to": "Don't worry, he'll come around."

Putting it all together — a learning journey map

brush up (on) → refresh old knowledge
read up (on/about) → research thoroughly
swot up (on) → intensive exam study
take in → understand & remember (or be deceived)
figure out → solve or understand
make out → perceive with difficulty
puzzle out → solve confusing problems
piece together → combine scattered information
think over → consider carefully
think through → systematic analysis
mull over → contemplate slowly
think up → invent/create ideas
come up with → generate ideas successfully
hit upon → discover suddenly/accidentally
face up to → accept and deal with
come (a)round (to) → change opinion gradually

Mini dialogues (natural and short)

A. Exam preparation

A: Have you started studying for the chemistry exam?
B: Yes, I'm brushing up on the formulas and swotting up on organic chemistry.
A: I need to read up on the last three chapters tonight.

B. Problem-solving

A: Can you figure out why the program keeps crashing?
B: I'm trying to puzzle it out. I've been piecing together the error logs.
A: Let me know when you hit upon a solution.

C. Decision-making

A: What do you think about the job offer?
B: I need to think it over. Let me mull over the pros and cons.
A: Make sure you think through all the consequences.

D. Understanding

A: Did you understand the lecture?
B: Not really. There was too much to take in. I could barely make out what he was saying.
A: We should read up on the topic before the next class.

E. Idea generation

A: We need a name for the project. Any ideas?
B: I've been trying to come up with something creative.
A: Let's think up some options together.

F. Acceptance

A: He still won't admit he made a mistake.
B: He needs to face up to the truth.
A: Don't worry, he'll come around eventually.

Quick form guide (separable? object?)

brush up (on) — inseparable; on + noun/gerund.
read up (on/about) — inseparable; on/about + noun.
swot up (on) — inseparable; on + noun.
take in — separable (take it in); multiple meanings.
figure out — separable (figure it out).
make out — separable (make it out); emphasizes difficulty.
puzzle out — separable (puzzle it out).
piece together — separable (piece it together).
think over — separable (think it over).
think through — separable (think it through).
mull over — separable (mull it over).
think up — separable (think it up).
come up with — inseparable; cannot separate.
hit upon — inseparable; more formal.
face up to — inseparable; to + noun/gerund.
come (a)round (to) — inseparable; optional "to" + noun/gerund.

Micro-practice with reasons

I need to brush up on my German before the conference. Refresh previously learned knowledge.
She's reading up on artificial intelligence for her dissertation. Thorough research through reading.
There was so much information; I couldn't take it all in. Overwhelming amount to understand.
Can you help me figure out this math problem? Solve through reasoning.
I'm trying to piece together what happened from witness accounts. Combine scattered information.
Let me think over your proposal and get back to you. Careful consideration needed.
We need to think through all the consequences before we decide. Systematic, thorough analysis.
She came up with a brilliant idea for the campaign. Successfully generated a creative idea.
While experimenting, they hit upon a new method. Accidental/sudden discovery.
He needs to face up to his responsibilities. Accept and deal with something difficult.
After hearing the evidence, the jury came around to a unanimous decision. Gradual change of opinion.
I've been mulling over your suggestion all weekend. Slow, reflective contemplation over time.

Key comparisons & contrasts

brush up on vs read up on vs swot up on Refresh old knowledge vs thorough new research vs intensive exam prep.
figure out vs puzzle out vs make out General solving vs mysterious/confusing problems vs perceiving with difficulty.
think over vs think through vs mull over Careful consideration vs systematic analysis vs slow contemplation.
think up vs come up with vs hit upon Invent (informal) vs generate successfully vs discover suddenly.
take in (understand) vs take in (deceive) Context determines meaning—watch for clues!

Summary chart by category

📚 Learning & Studying

brush up (on) — refresh old knowledge
read up (on/about) — research thoroughly
swot up (on) — intensive exam study [BrE]

💡 Understanding & Comprehension

take in — understand & remember
figure out — solve or understand
make out — perceive with difficulty
puzzle out — solve confusing problems
piece together — combine scattered info

🤔 Thinking & Consideration

think over — consider carefully
think through — systematic analysis
mull over — contemplate slowly

💭 Idea Generation

think up — invent/create
come up with — generate successfully
hit upon — discover suddenly

✅ Acceptance & Change

face up to — accept & deal with
come (a)round (to) — change opinion

Practice exercises

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

I need to _______ on my French before the trip.
She _______ a great idea for the fundraiser.
Let me _______ your proposal and get back to you.
I couldn't _______ what he was saying over the noise.
The police are trying to _______ what happened.
You need to _______ the consequences before acting.
He finally _______ his fear of failure.
After the presentation, she _______ our point of view.

Answers: 1. brush up 2. came up with 3. think over/mull over 4. make out 5. piece together 6. think through 7. faced up to 8. came around to

Exercise 2: Choose the best phrasal verb

You have an exam next week on material you studied last year. → _______
You suddenly discover the perfect solution while doing something else. → _______
You need to accept that you made a mistake. → _______
Someone gives you a job offer and you need time to consider it carefully. → _______
You're trying to understand a complicated mystery by looking at all the clues. → _______
You want to learn about a topic by reading many sources. → _______
You're inventing excuses for being late. → _______
Someone was initially against your idea but now agrees. → _______

Answers: 1. brush up (on) 2. hit upon 3. face up to 4. think over/mull over 5. piece together 6. read up (on) 7. thinking up 8. came around (to)

Exercise 3: Separable or inseparable?

Mark each phrasal verb as S (separable) or I (inseparable):

figure out → _______
come up with → _______
brush up on → _______
think over → _______
face up to → _______
piece together → _______
hit upon → _______
mull over → _______

Answers: 1. S 2. I 3. I 4. S 5. I 6. S 7. I 8. S

Teaching tip: Group verbs by category (learning, understanding, thinking, etc.), drill pronoun placement for separable verbs (figure it out / think it over), and ask learners to write a learning diary using at least eight of these verbs to describe their study process.

Study tip for learners: Don't try to memorize all 16 at once! Focus on one category per day:

Day 1: Learning verbs (brush up, read up, swot up)
Day 2: Understanding verbs (take in, figure out, make out, puzzle out, piece together)
Day 3: Thinking verbs (think over, think through, mull over)
Day 4: Idea verbs (think up, come up with, hit upon)
Day 5: Acceptance verbs (face up to, come around to)
Day 6: Review all with the mini dialogues and exercises

Extra Practice 1

Five ultra-challenging, progressive exercises designed to push your mastery of thinking and learning phrasal verbs from controlled accuracy to free production. Each exercise builds on the previous one with detailed explanations.

Level: B2–C1 Topic: Thinking & Learning Format: Progressive (Restricted → Free)

Exercise 1: Precision Matching Challenge (Restricted)

Match each phrasal verb with its EXACT definition, then identify the correct grammatical pattern. This tests precise meaning comprehension and grammatical knowledge.

📋 Instructions: For each phrasal verb, select: (A) the most precise definition, and (B) the correct grammatical pattern.

Phrasal Verbs:

1. brush up on 2. figure out 3. mull over 4. piece together 5. come around to 6. hit upon

Definitions (A-F):

To refresh or improve knowledge/skills you learned previously
To understand or solve something through reasoning
To think carefully about something over an extended period
To combine separate pieces of information to understand the whole
To gradually change your opinion to agree with someone
To discover or think of something suddenly or by chance

Grammatical Patterns (I-VI):

Inseparable; requires "on" + noun/gerund
Separable; transitive (can take object between verb and particle)
Separable; transitive (can take object between verb and particle)
Separable; transitive (can take object between verb and particle)
Inseparable; requires "to" + noun/gerund
Inseparable; transitive (object follows complete phrasal verb)

Answer Key + Detailed Explanations

Correct Matches:

brush up on → Definition A + Pattern I Explanation: "Brush up on" specifically means to refresh or improve knowledge/skills you already have but haven't used recently. Definition A captures this precisely—it's not learning something new, but reviving old knowledge. Pattern I is correct because this phrasal verb is inseparable and always requires "on" before the object: "brush up on Spanish" (not "brush Spanish up on"). The structure is: brush up on + noun/gerund.
figure out → Definition B + Pattern II Explanation: "Figure out" means to understand or solve something through a process of reasoning or calculation. Definition B is the most precise. Pattern II is correct because this is a separable transitive phrasal verb. You can say "figure out the problem" OR "figure the problem out" OR "figure it out" (pronoun must go in the middle). The separability is key to its grammatical pattern.
mull over → Definition C + Pattern III Explanation: "Mull over" means to think carefully and reflectively about something over time, often returning to the thought repeatedly. Definition C captures the extended time aspect. Pattern III is correct because "mull over" is separable: "mull over the decision" OR "mull the decision over" OR "mull it over." The separability allows flexible word order depending on the object type.
piece together → Definition D + Pattern IV Explanation: "Piece together" means to combine separate, scattered pieces of information to form a complete understanding—like assembling a jigsaw puzzle. Definition D is exact. Pattern IV is correct because this phrasal verb is separable: "piece together the clues" OR "piece the clues together" OR "piece them together." The metaphor of physical assembly reflects its separable nature.
come around to → Definition E + Pattern V Explanation: "Come around to" means to gradually change your opinion or attitude to agree with someone or accept an idea you initially opposed. Definition E captures the gradual nature. Pattern V is correct because this is inseparable and requires "to" before the object: "come around to the idea" (not "come the idea around to"). The preposition "to" is essential and cannot be separated.
hit upon → Definition F + Pattern VI Explanation: "Hit upon" means to discover or think of something suddenly, often by chance or accident rather than through systematic searching. Definition F emphasizes the sudden/chance element. Pattern VI is correct because "hit upon" is inseparable—the object always follows the complete phrasal verb: "hit upon an idea" (not "hit an idea upon"). This is a fixed pattern that cannot be separated.

Exercise 2: Contextual Gap-Fill with Form Control (Controlled)

Complete each sentence with the correct phrasal verb in the appropriate form (tense, voice, separability). Pay close attention to context clues and grammatical requirements.

🎯 Challenge: Choose the correct phrasal verb AND use the correct form. Consider tense markers, passive/active voice, and pronoun placement.

1. Before the exam, I need to ___________ my knowledge of organic chemistry because I haven't studied it for two years.

2. The detective spent hours trying to ___________ what had happened by examining all the witness statements carefully.

3. I couldn't ___________ the professor's handwriting on the board—it was completely illegible.

4. After analyzing the data for weeks, the research team finally ___________ a groundbreaking discovery quite by accident.

5. She's been ___________ the job offer all weekend, but she still hasn't made a decision.

6. Let me ___________ the consequences before I give you my final answer.

7. Despite her initial resistance, she eventually ___________ our way of thinking after hearing all the evidence.

8. The students were asked to ___________ Italian history for their upcoming presentation.

9. He needs to ___________ the reality that he won't pass without studying harder.

10. We spent hours trying to ___________ the ancient riddle, but it was incredibly complex.

11. There was so much information in the lecture that I found it hard to ___________ everything the professor said.

12. The marketing team needs to ___________ some creative ideas for the new advertising campaign by Friday.

Word Bank: brush up on come around to come up with face up to figure out hit upon make out mull over piece together puzzle out read up on take in think through

Answer Key + Detailed Explanations

brush up on Explanation: The context indicates refreshing old knowledge ("haven't studied it for two years"). "Need to" requires the base form. "Brush up on" is the only phrasal verb that means to refresh previously learned material. The phrase "brush up on my knowledge" is the correct structure.
piece together Explanation: The detective is combining separate witness statements to understand the complete picture. "Trying to" requires the base form. "Piece together" means to combine scattered information, which fits perfectly. Alternative: "figure out" could work, but "piece together" better emphasizes the process of combining multiple sources.
make out Explanation: The context emphasizes difficulty in seeing/reading ("completely illegible"). "Couldn't" requires the base form. "Make out" specifically means to see, hear, or understand something with difficulty. This is the only phrasal verb that fits the context of struggling to read handwriting.
hit upon Explanation: The phrase "quite by accident" is the key clue indicating a sudden, chance discovery. Past simple "hit upon" is needed because this is a completed past action. "Hit upon" emphasizes the accidental/sudden nature of discovery, distinguishing it from "come up with" which suggests intentional creation.
mulling over Explanation: "All weekend" indicates extended time, and "still hasn't decided" suggests ongoing contemplation. Present perfect continuous "has been mulling over" shows an action that started in the past and continues. "Mull over" specifically means to think about something over time, making it the perfect choice.
think through Explanation: "Let me" requires the base form. The context suggests systematic, thorough consideration of consequences. "Think through" means to consider something in an organized, thorough way, which fits better than "think over" (which is more general). The focus on "consequences" suggests the need for systematic analysis.
came around to Explanation: "Despite her initial resistance" and "eventually" indicate a gradual change of opinion. Past simple "came around to" is needed because this is a completed change. "Come around to" specifically means to change your opinion to agree with others, which perfectly matches the context.
read up on Explanation: The context is about researching for a presentation. "Were asked to" requires the base form. "Read up on" means to research thoroughly by reading, which is more appropriate than "brush up on" (which implies refreshing old knowledge). The students are likely learning new information, not refreshing old knowledge.
face up to Explanation: The context suggests accepting an unpleasant truth. "Needs to" requires the base form. "Face up to" means to accept and deal with something difficult, which fits the context of accepting the reality of potential failure. This phrasal verb implies confronting something you've been avoiding.
puzzle out Explanation: "Ancient riddle" and "incredibly complex" suggest something mysterious and difficult. "Trying to" requires the base form. "Puzzle out" emphasizes solving something confusing or mysterious, which fits better than "figure out" (more general). The word "riddle" particularly calls for "puzzle out."
take in Explanation: "So much information" and "hard to" suggest difficulty understanding and remembering. "Found it hard to" requires the base form. "Take in" means to understand and remember information, especially when there's a lot of it. The phrase "take in everything" is a common collocation.
come up with Explanation: The context is about generating/creating new ideas. "Needs to" requires the base form. "Come up with" means to think of or produce ideas, which fits perfectly. "By Friday" indicates a deadline, and "come up with" suggests successful idea generation within that timeframe.

Exercise 3: Multi-Error Detection & Correction (Semi-Controlled)

Each academic scenario contains 2-3 errors related to phrasal verb usage. Identify ALL errors and provide corrections with explanations. Errors may involve wrong verb choice, incorrect prepositions, wrong word order, tense mistakes, or grammatical structure problems.

🔍 Challenge: Find all errors in each scenario. Consider meaning, prepositions, separability, tense, and context appropriateness.

Scenario 1: University Study Session

"I need to brush on my calculus before the exam next week. My study partner has been reading about quantum physics for her dissertation. We spent hours trying to figure the solution out, but the problem was too complex. Eventually, we hit on a new approach that worked."

Scenario 2: Research Project

"The research team has been trying to piece up the data from various experiments. They couldn't make up what the results meant initially. After thinking over it carefully for weeks, they came around the conclusion that their hypothesis was correct. The professor was determined to see the project to completion."

Scenario 3: Thesis Writing

"I've been mulling about my thesis topic for months. My supervisor suggested I should read up about cognitive psychology and brush up my research methods. There was so much literature to take up that I felt overwhelmed. I needed to think it over thoroughly before making a final decision."

Scenario 4: Problem-Solving Workshop

"The students were asked to come with creative solutions to environmental problems. They had to puzzle up complex scenarios and face to difficult ethical questions. One group hit upon a brilliant idea accidentally. Despite initial skepticism, the professor eventually came around their proposal."

Scenario 5: Learning Journey

"When I started university, I had to brush on several subjects I'd forgotten from high school. I spent weeks reading on neuroscience and trying to figure up how the brain processes information. My classmates and I would think over complex theories together. Eventually, I came around to understanding that learning requires patience and persistence."

Answer Key + Detailed Explanations

Scenario 1: University Study Session

Errors Found: 2

Error: "brush on" → Correction: "brush up on" Explanation: The correct phrasal verb is "brush up on," not "brush on." The particle "up" is essential to the meaning of refreshing old knowledge. "Brush on" doesn't exist as a standard phrasal verb in this context. The complete phrase must be "brush up on + subject."
Error: "reading about" → Correction: "reading up on" OR "reading about" is actually CORRECT Explanation: This is actually NOT an error. "Reading about" is perfectly correct standard English. However, if we want to emphasize thorough research, "reading up on" would be more precise for academic research context. Both are grammatically correct, but "reading up on" better conveys intensive research for a dissertation.
Note: "figure the solution out" is CORRECT Explanation: This is correct because "figure out" is separable, so "figure the solution out" is grammatically acceptable. Both "figure out the solution" and "figure the solution out" are correct. The separated form is natural when the object is a noun phrase.
Note: "hit on" is CORRECT Explanation: "Hit on" is a correct variant of "hit upon." Both "hit on" and "hit upon" mean to discover something suddenly or by chance. "Hit on" is slightly more informal but perfectly acceptable. No correction needed.

Actual Error Count: 1 definite error

Scenario 2: Research Project

Errors Found: 4

Error: "piece up" → Correction: "piece together" Explanation: The correct phrasal verb is "piece together," not "piece up." "Together" is the correct particle because the meaning is about combining separate pieces to form a whole. "Piece up" doesn't exist as a phrasal verb. The correct phrase is "piece together the data."
Error: "make up" → Correction: "make out" Explanation: "Make out" means to understand with difficulty. "Make up" means to invent or fabricate. The context shows they couldn't understand the results, not that they were inventing them. This is a particle error that completely changes the meaning. "Couldn't make out what the results meant" is correct.
Error: "came around the conclusion" → Correction: "came to the conclusion" Explanation: This is a wrong phrasal verb choice. "Come to a conclusion" is the correct expression, not "come around to a conclusion." "Come around to" means to change your opinion to agree with someone else's idea, but you don't "come around to" your own conclusion—you "come to" or "reach" a conclusion. This is a common confusion.
Error: "see the project to completion" → Correction: "see the project through" OR "see the project through to completion" Explanation: While "see to completion" sounds logical, the correct phrasal verb is "see through" (meaning to complete something difficult). You can say "see the project through" or "see through the project" or even "see the project through to completion," but not "see the project to completion" alone. The particle "through" is essential.

Scenario 3: Thesis Writing

Errors Found: 3

Error: "mulling about" → Correction: "mulling over" Explanation: The correct particle is "over," not "about." "Mull over" means to think carefully about something over time. "Mull about" is not a standard phrasal verb. This is a preposition error. The correct phrase is "mulling over my thesis topic."
Error: "read up about" → Correction: "read up on" Explanation: "Read up on" requires the preposition "on," not "about." While "read about" is correct standard English, the phrasal verb "read up" specifically requires "on." This is a fixed prepositional pattern: read up ON + subject. You cannot mix them as "read up about."
Error: "brush up my research methods" → Correction: "brush up on my research methods" Explanation: "Brush up" is inseparable and requires "on" before the object. You cannot say "brush up my methods"—you must say "brush up on my methods." The preposition "on" is essential and cannot be omitted. This is a preposition omission error.
Error: "take up" → Correction: "take in" Explanation: "Take in" means to understand and absorb information. "Take up" means to start a hobby or occupy space. The context is about absorbing/understanding literature, not starting a hobby. This is a particle error that changes the meaning. "So much literature to take in" is correct.

Actual Error Count: 4 errors

Scenario 4: Problem-Solving Workshop

Errors Found: 4

Error: "come with" → Correction: "come up with" Explanation: The correct phrasal verb is "come up with," not "come with." The particle "up" is essential for the meaning of generating or producing ideas. "Come with" means to accompany someone, which doesn't fit this context. "Come up with creative solutions" is the correct phrase.
Error: "puzzle up" → Correction: "puzzle out" Explanation: The correct particle is "out," not "up." "Puzzle out" means to solve something confusing. "Puzzle up" doesn't exist as a standard phrasal verb. This is a particle error. The correct phrase is "puzzle out complex scenarios."
Error: "face to" → Correction: "face up to" Explanation: The correct phrasal verb is "face up to," not "face to." The complete phrase requires both "up" and "to" to mean accepting and dealing with something difficult. "Face to" is incomplete and doesn't convey the intended meaning. "Face up to difficult ethical questions" is correct.
Error: "came around their proposal" → Correction: "came around to their proposal" Explanation: "Come around to" requires the preposition "to" before the object. You cannot say "come around their proposal"—you must say "come around to their proposal." The preposition "to" is essential to this inseparable phrasal verb. This is a preposition omission error.

Scenario 5: Learning Journey

Errors Found: 3

Error: "brush on" → Correction: "brush up on" Explanation: Same error as Scenario 1. The correct phrasal verb is "brush up on," not "brush on." The particle "up" is essential. "Brush on" doesn't exist in this context. The correct phrase is "brush up on several subjects."
Error: "reading on" → Correction: "reading up on" Explanation: The correct phrasal verb is "reading up on," not "reading on." While "reading on neuroscience" might sound acceptable, the phrasal verb "read up" specifically requires "up on" together to mean thorough research. "Reading on" suggests continuing to read, not researching. "Reading up on neuroscience" is correct.
Error: "figure up" → Correction: "figure out" Explanation: The correct particle is "out," not "up." "Figure out" means to understand or solve. "Figure up" is not a standard phrasal verb in this context (it can mean "calculate" in some dialects, but that's not the meaning here). The correct phrase is "figure out how the brain processes information."
Note: "came around to understanding" is CORRECT Explanation: This is actually correct. "Come around to" can be followed by a gerund (understanding). The structure "came around to understanding that..." is grammatically correct and means the speaker gradually accepted or realized something. No correction needed.

Actual Error Count: 3 errors

Common Error Patterns Identified:

Particle confusion: "brush on" vs "brush up on"; "figure up" vs "figure out"; "puzzle up" vs "puzzle out"
Preposition errors: "mull about" vs "mull over"; "read up about" vs "read up on"; missing "to" in "come around to"
Wrong verb choice: "make up" vs "make out"; "take up" vs "take in"; "piece up" vs "piece together"
Incomplete phrasal verbs: "face to" vs "face up to"; "come with" vs "come up with"

Exercise 4: Guided Narrative Production (Semi-Free)

Create a coherent narrative about a learning experience using AT LEAST 10 different phrasal verbs from the list. You must follow the story prompts but have freedom in how you construct sentences. This tests your ability to use multiple phrasal verbs naturally in connected discourse.

✍️ Writing Task: Write a 200-250 word narrative about a challenging learning experience. Follow the structure below and incorporate the required phrasal verbs naturally.

Story Structure to Follow:

Introduction: Describe what you needed to learn and why (use: brush up on, read up on, OR swot up on)
Initial Challenges: Explain difficulties you faced understanding the material (use: take in, make out, OR figure out)
Problem-Solving Process: Describe how you tried to understand (use: piece together, puzzle out, OR think through)
Reflection Period: Explain how you considered your approach (use: think over, mull over, OR think through)
Breakthrough Moment: Describe discovering a solution or new approach (use: hit upon, come up with, OR figure out)
Overcoming Obstacles: Explain how you dealt with setbacks (use: face up to, see through)
Conclusion: Describe the final outcome and what you learned (use: come around to)

Required Phrasal Verbs (use at least 10): brush up on come around to come up with face up to figure out hit upon make out mull over piece together puzzle out read up on see through swot up on take in think over think through

Your Narrative:

Model Answer + Analysis

Model Narrative (248 words, 12 phrasal verbs used):

Last year, I decided to return to university after a five-year break, which meant I needed to brush up on my mathematics skills. I spent weeks reading up on calculus and linear algebra, but there was so much information that I found it difficult to take in everything at once.

The biggest challenge was that I couldn't make out what the textbooks were trying to explain—the notation seemed completely foreign. I spent hours trying to figure out the basic concepts, but nothing made sense. I tried to piece together information from different sources, hoping that would help.

After several frustrating weeks, I decided to think through my approach more carefully. I mulled over different study strategies and realized I needed to start with more fundamental concepts. One evening, while reviewing my notes, I hit upon a new way of visualizing the problems that suddenly made everything clearer.

However, I still had to face up to the fact that I was behind my classmates. I was determined to see through this challenge despite the difficulties. Gradually, I came around to understanding that learning mathematics requires patience and consistent practice, not just memorization. By the end of the semester, I had not only caught up but had developed a genuine appreciation for the subject.

Analysis of Phrasal Verb Usage:

brush up on (para 1) - Correctly used to show refreshing old knowledge after a break
reading up on (para 1) - Shows thorough research/study of specific topics
take in (para 1) - Demonstrates difficulty absorbing large amounts of information
make out (para 2) - Emphasizes difficulty understanding with "couldn't"
figure out (para 2) - Shows attempt to understand through reasoning
piece together (para 2) - Illustrates combining information from multiple sources
think through (para 3) - Shows systematic reconsideration of approach
mulled over (para 3) - Demonstrates reflective thinking over time
hit upon (para 3) - Captures the sudden, accidental discovery moment
face up to (para 4) - Shows accepting a difficult reality
see through (para 4) - Demonstrates determination to complete despite obstacles
came around to (para 4) - Shows gradual change in understanding/attitude

What Makes This Effective:

Natural integration of phrasal verbs without forcing them
Correct grammatical forms (tenses, separability, prepositions)
Logical progression following the story structure
Appropriate context for each phrasal verb
Varied sentence structures and complexity
Coherent narrative with clear beginning, middle, and end

Exercise 5: Free Situational Production (Free)

Choose ONE situation below and write a detailed response (150-200 words) using AT LEAST 8 different phrasal verbs naturally. This is the freest exercise—you control the content, structure, and style, but must demonstrate sophisticated use of the phrasal verbs in authentic contexts.

🎭 Choose ONE Situation:

Situation 1: Academic Advice

A younger student asks you for advice on how to prepare for university entrance exams. Write a response giving them practical study tips and strategies. Use phrasal verbs to explain different learning techniques, how to deal with difficult material, and how to maintain motivation.

Situation 2: Problem-Solving at Work

Your team is facing a complex problem that no one understands. Write an email to your manager explaining the situation, what your team has tried so far, and your proposed approach to finding a solution. Use phrasal verbs to describe the thinking and problem-solving process.

Situation 3: Personal Reflection

Write a journal entry reflecting on a time when you had to change your mind about something important (an opinion, belief, or decision). Explain what made you reconsider, how you thought through the issue, and what you learned from the experience.

Situation 4: Teaching Experience

Describe your experience teaching or explaining something complex to someone else. Explain the challenges you faced in helping them understand, the strategies you used, and how you adapted your approach when they struggled.

Available Phrasal Verbs (use at least 8 naturally): brush up on come around to come up with face up to figure out hit upon make out mull over piece together puzzle out read up on see through swot up on take in think over think through think up

Your Response:

Selected Situation: _____________

Model Answers for All Situations + Analysis

Model Answer 1: Academic Advice (182 words, 9 phrasal verbs)

Hi! I'm happy to share some advice about preparing for university entrance exams. First, you need to figure out which subjects require the most attention. If you haven't studied certain topics for a while, you should brush up on them early. Don't wait until the last minute to swot up on everything—that's incredibly stressful.

When you encounter difficult material, try to piece together information from different sources rather than relying on just one textbook. If you can't make out what something means, don't skip it—spend time trying to puzzle it out or ask for help. I recommend reading up on exam techniques as well, not just content.

Most importantly, you need to face up to your weaknesses honestly. When you feel overwhelmed, think through your study plan and adjust it. Remember, success comes from consistent effort, not cramming. You've got this!

Analysis:

✅ Natural, conversational tone appropriate for advice
✅ 9 phrasal verbs used correctly in context
✅ Logical organization (what to do, how to study, mindset)
✅ Varied sentence structures and verb forms
✅ Appropriate register for peer-to-peer advice

Model Answer 2: Problem-Solving at Work (195 words, 10 phrasal verbs)

Subject: Complex Client Issue - Proposed Solution Approach

Dear Sarah,

I'm writing to update you on the database integration problem we've been facing. The team has spent the past two weeks trying to figure out why the system keeps crashing, but we couldn't make out what was causing the errors initially.

We've been piecing together information from error logs, user reports, and system diagnostics. After mulling over various possibilities, we hit upon a potential issue with the API configuration. We've read up on similar cases and believe we've come up with a viable solution.

However, implementing this fix will require significant testing. We need to think through the implications carefully before proceeding. I've thought over the timeline, and I believe we can see this through within three weeks if we dedicate focused resources.

I'd appreciate your input on this approach.

Best regards,
Alex

Analysis:

✅ Professional email format and tone
✅ 10 phrasal verbs integrated naturally
✅ Clear problem description and proposed solution
✅ Appropriate formality for workplace communication
✅ Logical flow from problem to analysis to solution

Model Answer 3: Personal Reflection (198 words, 11 phrasal verbs)

Journal Entry - March 15th

I've been mulling over my decision to change careers for months now, and I finally came around to accepting that it's the right choice. Initially, I couldn't figure out why I felt so unfulfilled in my job despite the good salary. I tried to piece together my feelings and motivations, but nothing made sense.

Then, during a conversation with an old friend, I hit upon a realization: I was avoiding what I really wanted to do because I was afraid of failure. I had to face up to the fact that staying in a comfortable but unsatisfying job was worse than taking a risk.

I spent weeks reading up on different career paths and thinking through the practical implications. I thought over the financial risks carefully. Eventually, I came up with a transition plan that felt manageable. Now I'm determined to see this through, no matter how challenging it becomes. This experience taught me that sometimes you need to listen to your instincts, even when logic suggests otherwise.

Analysis:

✅ Authentic journal/reflection style
✅ 11 phrasal verbs used naturally
✅ Clear narrative arc (confusion → realization → decision → commitment)
✅ Emotional depth and personal insight
✅ Appropriate introspective tone

Model Answer 4: Teaching Experience (189 words, 9 phrasal verbs)

Last semester, I tutored a student who was struggling with organic chemistry. The main challenge was that she couldn't take in the vast amount of information—there were too many reactions and mechanisms to remember. She also couldn't make out the logic behind why certain reactions occurred.

I realized I needed to think through my teaching approach differently. Instead of just explaining concepts, I helped her piece together the underlying patterns. We spent time trying to puzzle out why molecules behaved certain ways, rather than just memorizing outcomes.

When she struggled, I encouraged her to face up to her confusion rather than avoiding difficult topics. I came up with visual diagrams and analogies that made abstract concepts more concrete. After several weeks, she came around to understanding that chemistry is about patterns, not random facts.

The key lesson I learned was that helping someone figure out something for themselves is more effective than simply telling them the answer. Patient guidance beats direct instruction every time.

Analysis:

✅ Clear description of teaching challenges
✅ 9 phrasal verbs used appropriately
✅ Demonstrates problem-solving and adaptation
✅ Reflective conclusion with lesson learned
✅ Natural narrative flow

Assessment Criteria for Your Response:

Phrasal Verb Usage (40%): Minimum 8 different phrasal verbs used correctly with appropriate forms, prepositions, and separability
Context Appropriateness (25%): Phrasal verbs fit naturally in context and enhance meaning
Coherence & Organization (20%): Clear structure, logical flow, appropriate paragraph division
Register & Style (15%): Appropriate tone and formality for the chosen situation

🏆 Mastery Achievement! You've completed a progressive journey from restricted accuracy exercises to free production tasks. This progression mirrors natural language acquisition: first mastering form and meaning precisely, then recognizing and correcting errors, then producing guided output, and finally creating authentic, spontaneous language. If you successfully completed Exercise 5, you've demonstrated true mastery—the ability to use these phrasal verbs naturally and appropriately in real-world communication contexts. Review any challenges carefully, as they reveal areas for continued growth!

Extra Practice 2

Five advanced, ultra-challenging exercises that progressively move from controlled accuracy drills to free production tasks. Master thinking and learning phrasal verbs through intensive practice with comprehensive feedback.

Level: B2–C1 Topic: Thinking & Learning Format: Progressive (Accuracy → Fluency)

Exercise 1: Collocation & Pattern Precision Challenge (Restricted)

Match each phrasal verb with its most common collocations AND identify which preposition or particle pattern is required. This tests your knowledge of natural word combinations and grammatical patterns.

📚 Instructions: For each phrasal verb, identify: (A) the most natural collocations, and (B) the correct preposition/particle pattern.

Phrasal Verbs:

1. read up 2. take in 3. think up 4. face up 5. swot up 6. come around

Common Collocations (A-F):

_____ excuses / _____ ideas / _____ a plan
_____ on chemistry / _____ on past papers / _____ on vocabulary [British English]
_____ information / _____ everything / _____ what someone said
_____ on history / _____ on the topic / _____ about the subject
_____ to the truth / _____ to reality / _____ to your mistakes
_____ to an idea / _____ to someone's way of thinking / _____ eventually

Preposition/Particle Patterns (I-VI):

Requires "on" or "about" + noun
Separable; no preposition needed after particle
Separable; no preposition needed after particle
Requires "on" + noun (British English)
Requires "to" + noun/gerund
Requires "to" + noun/gerund OR can be used without "to"

Additional Challenge: Which TWO of these phrasal verbs are separable?

Answer Key + Detailed Explanations

Correct Matches:

read up → Collocations D + Pattern I Explanation: "Read up" commonly collocates with academic or research topics: "read up on history," "read up on the topic," "read up about the subject." Pattern I is correct because this phrasal verb requires either "on" or "about" before the object. The preposition is essential: you cannot say "read up history"—you must say "read up ON/ABOUT history." This is an inseparable phrasal verb.
take in → Collocations C + Pattern II Explanation: "Take in" commonly collocates with information-related nouns: "take in information," "take in everything," "take in what someone said." Pattern II is correct because this is a separable phrasal verb that doesn't require a preposition after the particle. You can say "take in information" OR "take information in" OR "take it in." The separability is key to its pattern.
think up → Collocations A + Pattern III Explanation: "Think up" commonly collocates with things you invent or create: "think up excuses," "think up ideas," "think up a plan." Pattern III is correct because this is a separable phrasal verb with no preposition needed. You can say "think up an excuse" OR "think an excuse up" OR "think it up." Often used with "excuse" (sometimes implying fabrication).
face up → Collocations E + Pattern V Explanation: "Face up" commonly collocates with difficult truths or realities: "face up to the truth," "face up to reality," "face up to your mistakes." Pattern V is correct because this phrasal verb requires "to" before the object. The complete form is "face up to" and it's inseparable: you must say "face up to the truth" (not "face the truth up to"). The "to" is essential.
swot up → Collocations B + Pattern IV Explanation: "Swot up" (British English) commonly collocates with exam-related subjects: "swot up on chemistry," "swot up on past papers," "swot up on vocabulary." Pattern IV is correct because this phrasal verb requires "on" before the object. This is primarily British English; Americans would say "cram" or "study hard." The preposition "on" is essential and cannot be omitted.
come around → Collocations F + Pattern VI Explanation: "Come around" commonly collocates with ideas or ways of thinking: "come around to an idea," "come around to someone's way of thinking," or simply "come around eventually" (without "to"). Pattern VI is correct because "to" is optional depending on context. With a specific object, use "to": "come around to the idea." Without an object or with "eventually," "to" is omitted: "He'll come around eventually."

Additional Challenge Answer:

The TWO separable phrasal verbs are: take in and think up

Explanation: Both can have the object placed between the verb and particle: "take information in" / "take it in" and "think an excuse up" / "think it up." The other four phrasal verbs are inseparable and require specific prepositions.

Collocation Patterns to Remember:

Academic research: read up on/about + subject
Understanding: take in + information/everything/what someone said
Creating/Inventing: think up + excuses/ideas/plans
Accepting difficult truths: face up to + truth/reality/mistakes
Exam preparation (BrE): swot up on + subject/vocabulary/papers
Changing opinion: come around (to) + idea/way of thinking

Exercise 2: Extended Academic Dialogue Completion (Controlled)

Complete this realistic academic conversation between a professor and student using the correct phrasal verbs in appropriate forms. Pay attention to context, register, tense, and natural flow.

🎓 Scenario: Dr. Martinez (Professor) is meeting with Alex (Graduate Student) to discuss Alex's research progress and upcoming dissertation defense.

Dr. Martinez: Alex, thanks for coming. I wanted to discuss your dissertation progress. Have you been (1) the latest research on cognitive neuroscience?

Alex: Yes, I've been (2) dozens of recent papers, but honestly, there's so much information that I'm finding it hard to (3) everything.

Dr. Martinez: That's completely normal. When you encounter complex theories, try to (4) the key concepts from different sources rather than memorizing everything.

Alex: Good advice. I've also been struggling to (5) why some of my experimental results contradict the existing literature. I can't (6) what's causing the discrepancy.

Dr. Martinez: Have you tried to (7) the problem systematically? Sometimes you need to (8) all the variables carefully before jumping to conclusions.

Alex: I have, but it's incredibly complex. I've been (9) different explanations for weeks now, trying to find the best approach.

Dr. Martinez: Well, you need to (10) the fact that your results might challenge established theories. That's not necessarily a bad thing—it could be your most important contribution.

Alex: You're right. I was initially resistant to that idea, but I'm starting to (11) your perspective. Maybe I've (12) a genuinely new finding.

Dr. Martinez: Exactly! Now, for your defense, you'll need to (13) your statistical methods before the committee meeting. Some of those techniques haven't been used since your undergraduate days.

Alex: Absolutely. I'll (14) for the exam over the next few weeks. I'm determined to (15) this challenge successfully, no matter how difficult it gets.

Word Bank: brush up on come around to face up to figure out hit upon make out mull over piece together puzzle out read up on reading up on see through swot up take in think through

Answer Key + Detailed Explanations

(1) reading up on Explanation: "Reading up on" means researching thoroughly. Present perfect continuous "have you been reading up on" is used because the professor is asking about an ongoing research activity. The preposition "on" is required with "read up." This phrasal verb emphasizes thorough, intentional research appropriate for academic contexts.
(2) reading up on Explanation: Same phrasal verb as (1). Present perfect continuous "I've been reading up on" shows an ongoing activity that started in the past and continues. "Dozens of recent papers" is the object of research. The continuous aspect emphasizes the extensive, ongoing nature of the reading.
(3) take in Explanation: "Take in" means to understand and absorb information. "Finding it hard to take in everything" is a natural collocation expressing difficulty with comprehension. The infinitive form (base form after "to") is required after "hard to." This phrasal verb is particularly appropriate when there's too much information to process.
(4) piece together Explanation: "Piece together" means to combine separate pieces of information to form understanding. "Try to piece together the key concepts" suggests assembling understanding from multiple sources. Infinitive form is required after "try to." This phrasal verb is perfect for describing synthesis of information from various sources.
(5) figure out Explanation: "Figure out" means to understand or solve through reasoning. "Struggling to figure out why" expresses difficulty understanding the reason for something. Present perfect continuous "have been struggling" with infinitive "to figure out" shows ongoing difficulty. This is the most natural choice for expressing problem-solving attempts.
(6) make out Explanation: "Make out" means to understand with difficulty. "Can't make out what's causing" emphasizes the difficulty in understanding. Modal "can't" requires the base form. This phrasal verb is particularly appropriate when something is confusing or unclear, which fits the context of contradictory results.
(7) puzzle out Explanation: "Puzzle out" means to solve something confusing through careful thought. "Have you tried to puzzle out the problem" suggests methodical problem-solving. "Tried to" requires the infinitive form. This phrasal verb emphasizes the mysterious or confusing nature of the problem, which fits the scientific context.
(8) think through Explanation: "Think through" means to consider systematically and thoroughly. "Need to think through all the variables" emphasizes systematic analysis. "Need to" requires the infinitive form. This phrasal verb is perfect for describing careful, methodical consideration of multiple factors before reaching conclusions.
(9) mulling over Explanation: "Mull over" means to think about carefully over time. Present perfect continuous "I've been mulling over different explanations for weeks" emphasizes extended, reflective thinking. The time expression "for weeks" reinforces the continuous aspect. This phrasal verb suggests deep, repeated contemplation appropriate for complex problems.
(10) face up to Explanation: "Face up to" means to accept and deal with something difficult. "Need to face up to the fact that" introduces an uncomfortable truth. "Need to" requires the infinitive form. This phrasal verb is appropriate for accepting challenging or unwelcome realities, which fits the context of results contradicting established theories.
(11) come around to Explanation: "Come around to" means to gradually change your opinion to agree with someone. "Starting to come around to your perspective" shows gradual acceptance. Present continuous "am starting to" with infinitive "come around to" indicates an ongoing change. This phrasal verb perfectly captures the gradual shift in thinking.
(12) hit upon Explanation: "Hit upon" means to discover something suddenly or by chance. "Maybe I've hit upon a genuinely new finding" suggests accidental discovery. Present perfect "have hit upon" indicates a recent discovery with present relevance. This phrasal verb emphasizes the unexpected or serendipitous nature of the discovery.
(13) brush up on Explanation: "Brush up on" means to refresh knowledge of something learned before. "Need to brush up on your statistical methods" suggests reviewing previously learned material. "Need to" requires the infinitive form. The context ("haven't been used since undergraduate days") confirms this is about refreshing old knowledge, not learning new material.
(14) swot up Explanation: "Swot up" (British English) means to study intensively for an exam. "I'll swot up for the exam" indicates intensive exam preparation. Future simple "will swot up" shows intention. While "swot up" is primarily British, it's particularly appropriate for intensive exam preparation like a dissertation defense. American speakers might say "cram."
(15) see through Explanation: "See through" means to complete something difficult despite obstacles. "Determined to see through this challenge" expresses commitment to completion. "Determined to" requires the infinitive form. This phrasal verb is perfect for expressing determination to complete something difficult, which fits the context of a challenging dissertation defense.

Natural Flow Analysis:

The dialogue progresses logically from research → problems → analysis → acceptance → preparation
Phrasal verbs are distributed naturally without forced placement
Register is consistently academic and professional throughout
Tense usage reflects the timeline: ongoing activities (present perfect continuous), current states (present simple), and future plans (future simple)
The conversation demonstrates authentic academic discourse patterns

Exercise 3: Advanced Paraphrase Challenge (Semi-Controlled)

Rewrite each sentence using a DIFFERENT phrasal verb that maintains the same or very similar meaning. This tests your understanding of subtle meaning differences and synonym relationships among phrasal verbs.

🔄 Challenge: Replace the underlined phrasal verb with a different one that fits the context. You may need to adjust the sentence structure slightly, but maintain the core meaning.

I spent hours trying to figure out the solution to the mathematical problem.
→ I spent hours trying to _________________ the solution to the mathematical problem.
She needs to brush up on her French before moving to Paris.
→ She needs to _________________ her French before moving to Paris. [Use a different phrasal verb with similar meaning]
The lecture was so dense that I couldn't take in all the information.
→ The lecture was so dense that I couldn't _________________ all the information. [Focus on difficulty understanding]
After weeks of consideration, he finally came around to our proposal.
→ After weeks of consideration, he finally _________________ our proposal. [Different phrasal verb for acceptance]
I've been mulling over the job offer for several days.
→ I've been _________________ the job offer for several days. [Similar meaning but different phrasal verb]
The detective tried to piece together what happened from witness statements.
→ The detective tried to _________________ what happened from witness statements.
While researching, the scientist hit upon an unexpected discovery.
→ While researching, the scientist _________________ an unexpected discovery. [Different phrasal verb for discovery]
You need to face up to the reality that you won't pass without studying.
→ You need to _________________ the reality that you won't pass without studying. [Simpler phrasal verb with similar meaning - this one is tricky!]
I couldn't make out what he was saying because of the background noise.
→ I couldn't _________________ what he was saying because of the background noise. [Focus on understanding difficulty]
We need to think through all the consequences before making this decision.
→ We need to _________________ all the consequences before making this decision. [Less systematic, more general consideration]

Answer Key + Detailed Explanations

puzzle out Explanation: "Puzzle out" is an excellent synonym for "figure out" when the problem is confusing or mysterious. Both mean to solve or understand something through reasoning. "Puzzle out" emphasizes the confusing nature of the problem slightly more than "figure out." The sentence structure remains identical. Alternative answer: "work out" (though this is less common in American English).
read up on OR swot up on (BrE) Explanation: While "brush up on" means to refresh old knowledge, "read up on" means to research/study thoroughly (could be new or old knowledge). In this context, since she's preparing for a move, both could work. "Swot up on" (British English) would emphasize intensive study. Note: These aren't perfect synonyms, but they work in this context. The sentence would be: "She needs to read up on her French..." or "She needs to swot up on her French..."
make out Explanation: "Make out" means to understand with difficulty, which fits perfectly here. Both "take in" and "make out" express difficulty understanding, but "make out" emphasizes the difficulty more strongly. The sentence structure remains the same: "I couldn't make out all the information." This is the best synonym in this context.
This is TRICKY - no perfect phrasal verb synonym exists! Explanation: "Come around to" is unique in meaning gradual opinion change. The closest option would be to restructure without a phrasal verb: "finally accepted our proposal" or "finally agreed to our proposal." If forced to use a phrasal verb, you might say "came to accept" (but this isn't a standard phrasal verb). This demonstrates that not all phrasal verbs have direct phrasal verb synonyms!
thinking over Explanation: "Think over" is a good synonym for "mull over." Both mean to consider carefully, though "mull over" suggests more reflective, extended thinking while "think over" is more general. The sentence becomes: "I've been thinking over the job offer for several days." Both phrasal verbs are separable and work well in this context.
figure out Explanation: "Figure out" works well as a synonym for "piece together" in this context. While "piece together" emphasizes combining scattered information (like a puzzle), "figure out" is more general. The sentence becomes: "The detective tried to figure out what happened from witness statements." Both convey the idea of reconstructing events from evidence.
came up with Explanation: "Come up with" is a good synonym for "hit upon" when referring to discoveries or ideas. The main difference: "hit upon" emphasizes the accidental/sudden nature, while "come up with" is more neutral. The sentence becomes: "While researching, the scientist came up with an unexpected discovery." Both work, though "hit upon" better captures the serendipitous aspect.
This is VERY TRICKY - consider "accept" (not a phrasal verb) Explanation: "Face up to" is quite unique in meaning to accept and deal with something difficult. There's no direct phrasal verb synonym. You could restructure: "You need to accept the reality..." but "accept" isn't a phrasal verb. This demonstrates that some phrasal verbs have unique meanings without direct phrasal verb equivalents. "Face up to" specifically implies confronting something you've been avoiding.
figure out OR work out Explanation: "Figure out" works as a synonym for "make out" in this context, though it loses some of the emphasis on difficulty. "Work out" is another option. The sentence becomes: "I couldn't figure out what he was saying because of the background noise." While "make out" specifically emphasizes perception difficulty, "figure out" is more about understanding through reasoning. The meaning is close but not identical.
think over Explanation: "Think over" is a good synonym for "think through" in this context, though "think through" implies more systematic, thorough analysis while "think over" is more general consideration. The sentence becomes: "We need to think over all the consequences before making this decision." Both are separable and work grammatically, but "think through" suggests more methodical thinking.

Important Insights from This Exercise:

Not all phrasal verbs have direct phrasal verb synonyms (e.g., "come around to," "face up to")
Synonyms often have subtle meaning differences (e.g., "mull over" vs "think over")
Context determines which synonym works best (e.g., "make out" vs "figure out")
Some phrasal verbs are more specific than others (e.g., "piece together" vs "figure out")
Understanding these nuances is key to advanced proficiency

Exercise 4: Research Journey Story Completion (Semi-Free)

Complete this narrative about a researcher's journey using AT LEAST 12 different phrasal verbs. You have freedom in choosing which verbs to use and how to structure sentences, but must follow the story framework provided.

📖 Story Framework: Complete the story by filling in the blanks with appropriate phrasal verbs. You may add additional words or adjust sentence structure as needed.

The Breakthrough

Dr. Sarah Chen had been working on her cancer research for three years. When she first started, she needed to __________(1) molecular biology because her background was in chemistry. She spent months __________(2) the latest research papers and attending conferences to understand the field better.

The problem was incredibly complex. There was so much technical information that she often found it difficult to __________(3) everything during lectures and seminars. She would spend hours trying to __________(4) the experimental data from various studies, hoping to find patterns that others had missed.

One particular mystery kept bothering her: she couldn't __________(5) why certain cancer cells responded differently to treatment. She tried to __________(6) this puzzle for months, examining every variable she could think of. Late at night, she would __________(7) different hypotheses, trying to find an explanation that made sense.

Her colleagues suggested she should __________(8) her entire approach more systematically. They encouraged her to __________(9) the possibility that her initial assumptions might be wrong. This was difficult for Sarah to accept at first, but gradually she began to __________(10) their perspective.

Then, one morning while reviewing her notes, she __________(11) a crucial insight completely by accident. She had __________(12) a potential breakthrough! She immediately __________(13) work on designing new experiments to test her hypothesis. Despite facing numerous setbacks over the following months, she was determined to __________(14) the research project to completion.

Two years later, her findings were published in a major journal. She had successfully __________(15) one of the most challenging research projects in her field, and her discovery opened new possibilities for cancer treatment.

Available Phrasal Verbs (use at least 12): brush up on come around to come up with face up to figure out hit upon make out mull over piece together puzzle out read up on see through set to take in think over think through think up

Model Answer + Analysis

Model Completion (15 phrasal verbs used):

Dr. Sarah Chen had been working on her cancer research for three years. When she first started, she needed to (1) brush up on molecular biology because her background was in chemistry. She spent months (2) reading up on the latest research papers and attending conferences to understand the field better.

The problem was incredibly complex. There was so much technical information that she often found it difficult to (3) take in everything during lectures and seminars. She would spend hours trying to (4) piece together the experimental data from various studies, hoping to find patterns that others had missed.

One particular mystery kept bothering her: she couldn't (5) figure out why certain cancer cells responded differently to treatment. She tried to (6) puzzle out this puzzle for months, examining every variable she could think of. Late at night, she would (7) mull over different hypotheses, trying to find an explanation that made sense.

Her colleagues suggested she should (8) think through her entire approach more systematically. They encouraged her to (9) face up to the possibility that her initial assumptions might be wrong. This was difficult for Sarah to accept at first, but gradually she began to (10) come around to their perspective.

Then, one morning while reviewing her notes, she (11) hit upon a crucial insight completely by accident. She had (12) come up with a potential breakthrough! She immediately (13) set to work on designing new experiments to test her hypothesis. Despite facing numerous setbacks over the following months, she was determined to (14) see through the research project to completion.

Two years later, her findings were published in a major journal. She had successfully (15) seen through one of the most challenging research projects in her field, and her discovery opened new possibilities for cancer treatment.

Detailed Analysis of Each Choice:

(1) brush up on - Perfect for refreshing knowledge from her chemistry background to apply to molecular biology
(2) reading up on - Emphasizes thorough research through reading papers
(3) take in - Captures difficulty absorbing large amounts of information
(4) piece together - Excellent for combining data from multiple sources
(5) figure out - General problem-solving, appropriate for understanding why
(6) puzzle out - Emphasizes the mysterious, confusing nature of the problem
(7) mull over - Captures late-night reflective thinking over time
(8) think through - Systematic, methodical analysis as suggested by colleagues
(9) face up to - Accepting a difficult truth about wrong assumptions
(10) come around to - Gradual change of opinion/perspective
(11) hit upon - Perfect for accidental discovery ("completely by accident")
(12) come up with - Successfully generating/discovering a breakthrough
(13) set to - Starting work with determination and energy
(14) see through - Completing despite obstacles ("numerous setbacks")
(15) seen through - Past participle showing successful completion

Alternative Acceptable Answers:

(1) Could also be "read up on" if she was learning completely new material
(5) Could be "make out" or "work out" (though "figure out" is most natural)
(7) Could be "think over" (though "mull over" better captures extended reflection)
(8) Could be "think over" (though "think through" emphasizes systematic approach)
(12) Could be "thought up" (though "come up with" is more natural for discoveries)

Exercise 5: Free Academic Email Composition (Free)

Write a complete email (200-250 words) for ONE of the situations below. Use AT LEAST 10 different phrasal verbs naturally and appropriately. This is completely free production—you control all aspects of content, structure, and style.

✉️ Choose ONE Email Situation:

Situation 1: Request for Extension

Write an email to your professor requesting an extension for your research paper. Explain the challenges you've faced in understanding the material, the research process you've undertaken, how you've tried to solve problems, and why you need more time. Be professional and specific about your efforts.

Situation 2: Study Group Invitation

Write an email to classmates inviting them to join a study group for an upcoming exam. Explain what topics need to be covered, suggest study strategies, describe how the group will work together to understand difficult material, and outline your proposed schedule.

Situation 3: Research Collaboration Proposal

Write an email to a fellow researcher proposing a collaboration. Explain your research interests, describe a problem you've been trying to solve, suggest how combining your expertise could lead to breakthroughs, and outline next steps for working together.

Situation 4: Advice to a Struggling Student

Write an email to a younger student who asked for your advice on handling difficult coursework. Share your own experiences with challenging material, explain strategies you've used successfully, offer specific tips for different types of learning challenges, and encourage them.

Requirements:

200-250 words
Use AT LEAST 10 different phrasal verbs naturally
Appropriate email format (greeting, body, closing)
Professional/academic register
Clear organization and logical flow

Available Phrasal Verbs (use at least 10 naturally): brush up on come around to come up with face up to figure out hit upon make out mull over piece together puzzle out read up on see through swot up on take in think over think through think up

Your Email:

Selected Situation: _____________

Model Emails for All Situations + Evaluation

Model Email 1: Request for Extension (248 words, 11 phrasal verbs)

Subject: Request for Extension - Research Paper on Cognitive Development

Dear Professor Williams,

I am writing to request a one-week extension for the research paper due on March 15th. I want to explain the challenges I've encountered and the efforts I've made to complete the assignment on time.

When I began the project, I realized I needed to brush up on developmental psychology theories, as I hadn't studied them since my sophomore year. I've spent considerable time reading up on recent research, but the volume of literature has been overwhelming. I've found it difficult to take in all the complex theoretical frameworks while simultaneously conducting my analysis.

I've been trying to piece together information from various sources to build a coherent argument. However, I couldn't figure out how to reconcile conflicting findings from different studies. I've mulled over different approaches for weeks and have thought through multiple organizational structures for the paper.

I've also had to face up to the fact that my initial thesis was too broad. After thinking over my advisor's feedback, I came up with a more focused approach, but implementing this change requires additional time.

I am committed to producing high-quality work and would greatly appreciate the extension to ensure my paper meets academic standards.

Thank you for considering my request.

Sincerely,
Alex Chen

Analysis:

✅ 11 phrasal verbs used naturally and appropriately
✅ Professional academic tone maintained throughout
✅ Clear explanation of challenges and efforts
✅ Logical organization: introduction → challenges → efforts → conclusion
✅ Appropriate email format with subject line
✅ 248 words (within range)

Model Email 2: Study Group Invitation (235 words, 10 phrasal verbs)

Subject: Study Group for Organic Chemistry Final Exam

Hi everyone,

I'm organizing a study group for the organic chemistry final and wanted to invite you all to join. The exam covers a massive amount of material, and I think working together will help us all succeed.

Many of us need to brush up on the early chapters, especially reaction mechanisms. I suggest we start by reading up on the most challenging topics together. When we encounter difficult concepts, we can work as a team to figure out what they mean and piece together the underlying principles.

I've found that when I can't make out what the textbook is explaining, discussing it with others helps tremendously. We can think through practice problems systematically and come up with memory techniques for complex reactions.

I propose we meet three times per week for the next two weeks. We'll need to face up to our weak areas honestly and spend extra time on them. I've been mulling over different study strategies, and I believe active problem-solving in a group setting is most effective.

If you're interested, please reply by Friday so we can think over the schedule together and find times that work for everyone.

Looking forward to studying with you!

Best,
Maria

Analysis:

✅ 10 phrasal verbs integrated naturally
✅ Friendly but organized tone appropriate for peers
✅ Clear proposal with specific suggestions
✅ Collaborative language ("we," "together")
✅ Logical structure: invitation → strategies → schedule → action item
✅ 235 words (within range)

Model Email 3: Research Collaboration Proposal (242 words, 12 phrasal verbs)

Subject: Potential Collaboration on Machine Learning Applications

Dear Dr. Patel,

I hope this email finds you well. I attended your presentation at the AI conference last month and was fascinated by your work on neural networks. I believe our research interests align in ways that could lead to productive collaboration.

I've been reading up on applications of machine learning in medical diagnostics and have come up with several ideas for improving accuracy. However, I've been trying to puzzle out a persistent problem with data classification that has stumped my team for months. We can't figure out why our algorithm performs inconsistently across different datasets.

I've spent weeks mulling over this issue and thinking through various approaches. Recently, while reading up on your research, I hit upon a potential solution that combines your network architecture with my preprocessing techniques. I've been piecing together how this might work, and I believe it could address both our research challenges.

I had to face up to the fact that solving this problem requires expertise I don't have, which is why I'm reaching out. If you're interested, I'd love to think over the possibilities together. Perhaps we could come up with a joint research proposal?

I'd be happy to discuss this further at your convenience.

Best regards,
Dr. James Liu

Analysis:

✅ 12 phrasal verbs used naturally (exceeds requirement)
✅ Professional academic tone for peer communication
✅ Clear problem statement and proposed solution
✅ Respectful approach to collaboration
✅ Logical flow: introduction → problem → solution → invitation
✅ 242 words (within range)

Model Email 4: Advice to Struggling Student (239 words, 11 phrasal

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Lesson 1: Thinking & Learning Phrasal Verbs: Extra Practice 2 (C1)

Thinking & Learning Phrasal Verbs — Step-by-Step Tutorial

brush up (on)

read up (on/about)

swot up (on) [British English]

take in

figure out

make out

puzzle out

piece together

think over

think through

mull over

think up

come up with

hit upon

face up to

come (a)round (to)

Putting it all together — a learning journey map

Mini dialogues (natural and short)

Quick form guide (separable? object?)

Micro-practice with reasons

Key comparisons & contrasts

Summary chart by category

Practice exercises

Extra Practice 1

Exercise 1: Precision Matching Challenge (Restricted)

Exercise 2: Contextual Gap-Fill with Form Control (Controlled)

Exercise 3: Multi-Error Detection & Correction (Semi-Controlled)

Exercise 4: Guided Narrative Production (Semi-Free)

Exercise 5: Free Situational Production (Free)

Extra Practice 2

Exercise 1: Collocation & Pattern Precision Challenge (Restricted)

Exercise 2: Extended Academic Dialogue Completion (Controlled)

Exercise 3: Advanced Paraphrase Challenge (Semi-Controlled)

Exercise 4: Research Journey Story Completion (Semi-Free)

Exercise 5: Free Academic Email Composition (Free)

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`brush up (on)`

`read up (on/about)`

`swot up (on)` [British English]

`take in`

`figure out`

`make out`

`puzzle out`

`piece together`

`think over`

`think through`

`mull over`

`think up`

`come up with`

`hit upon`

`face up to`

`come (a)round (to)`