The correct choice, 'Are planning', forms the present continuous tense.
The present continuous tense ('is/are' + verb-ing) is frequently used to describe definite plans or arrangements for the near future.
The phrase 'this time' in the sentence signals a current or future context, making the present continuous an ideal fit to express a planned activity.
Why Other Options Were Wrong
Option B: The verb 'panned' is incorrect. The correct past participle of 'plan' is 'planned'. 'Panned' is the past tense of 'to pan', as in searching for gold.
Option C: 'Had been planning' is the past perfect continuous tense. It describes an action that was ongoing before another point in the past, which doesn't fit the future-oriented context of 'this time'.
Option D: 'Planned' is the simple past tense, indicating a completed action. This contradicts the phrase 'this time', which implies a current or future intention.
Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain This question tests the appropriate use of verb tenses, specifically using the present continuous tense to express future plans and arrangements as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This is a General English question, not a clinical one. Strong command of grammar is essential for clear and professional communication in any field, including nursing.
Accurate use of tenses ensures that instructions, reports, and patient communication are understood correctly, preventing potential misunderstandings about the timing of events or actions.
What if the sentence was about a past event? If the sentence was 'Last year, we ___ to go to a hill station,' the correct answer would be 'planned' (Simple Past) to describe a completed action in the past.
How to Approach the Question
First, read the sentence and identify any time-related clues. The phrase 'this time' points to a present or near-future context.
Next, analyze the sentence structure. The sentence is missing the verb phrase that connects 'We' to the action 'to go'.
Evaluate each option based on its grammatical tense and its fit with the time clue.
Eliminate options that represent incorrect tenses for the context. 'Had been planning' (past perfect continuous) and 'Planned' (simple past) refer to past events and clash with 'this time'.
Identify any grammatical errors in the options. 'Have panned' uses the wrong verb form.
Select the option that correctly forms a tense suitable for a future plan. 'Are planning' (present continuous) is a standard way to express a future arrangement.
Concept Tested & Keywords
Concept Tested: This question tests the appropriate use of verb tenses, specifically using the present continuous tense to express future plans and arrangements.
Stem keywords: go to a hill station, this time
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
Negative lead-in flag: false
Question ID
QTClBK947GU4MIazvc6MuK
Practise the full PGIMS Rohtak NO - 2017
Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.