Perfectionism is the pursuit of an impossible standard.
[ 1 ]
Explanation
Correct Answer: F
The pronoun It at the start of sentence F refers back to the noun Perfectionism in the first sentence. The first sentence mentions an impossible standard. Sentence F expands on this by calling it an illusion, which matches the theme of something that isn’t real or reachable.
Whether it is obsessing over a font choice at the expense of a deadline or discarding hours of work over a single mistake, perfectionism creates a paradox: working beyond the stage of excellence until the quality actually declines. This mindset is not a driver of success.
[ 2 ]
Explanation
Correct Answer: D
The word Rather is a transition used to provide an alternative to a negative statement. The previous sentence says, This mindset is not a driver of success. Sentence D completes the thought by saying what it is instead. Success in the previous sentence is contrasted with diminished productivity in sentence D.
To break this cycle, one must embrace the concept of “Good Enough”.
[ 3 ]
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
The word this in sentence B refers to the specific phrase Good Enough mentioned right before the gap. There is a contrast between a compromise (negative view) and a strategic tool (positive view), explaining why Good Enough is actually beneficial.
Instead of focusing on a perfect result, you should focus on a good job. By focusing on doing a job well rather than perfectly, you avoid the exhaustion. You’d better get going with one paragraph, one sentence, one minute of revision, and do it well.
[ 4 ]
Explanation
Correct Answer: G
The sentence before the gap tells you to get going with one paragraph… and do it well. Sentence G summarizes this action as shifting focus toward the process. It provides a result for the advice given in the previous sentences: If you focus on the small steps (process), the result is that you take pride in the work.
Furthermore, engaging in activities purely for enjoyment rather than mastery helps you learn to value progress over the final products.
[ 5 ]
Explanation
Correct Answer: C
The final sentence of the paragraph mentions abandoning such obsession. Sentence C uses the phrase replacing the demand for perfection, which describes how to abandon that obsession. The words happier, healthier act as a summary of the benefits of the Good Enough approach discussed throughout the text.
By abandoning such obsession, you reclaim the time and mental energy needed to perform at your highest level.
Gapped text – What is perfectionism and how to deal with it
💡 You can learn more about this topic on BBC Bitesize | The irony and the illusion of perfectionism
The following passage discusses what perfectionism is and how you can change if you are a perfectionist. Five sentences have been removed. Choose from list of sentence A – G the one which fits each gap (1 – 5). There are two extra sentences.