Fill in the blank with the suitable modal from the options given below:
When Papa worked at the steel plant in Bhilai, the rules were strict. He ______ report for the morning shift at six sharp.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → had to
Complete sentence: When Papa worked at the steel plant in Bhilai, the rules were strict. He had to report for the morning shift at six sharp. “When Papa worked” shows past time, and “the rules were strict” shows the need came from the plant.
| Option | Meaning and use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) must | a necessity now or in the future; it has no past form | You must finish this chapter tonight. |
| (2) has to | a necessity from outside in the present | My sister has to wear a lab coat in the chemistry practical. |
| (3) should | advice, or the right thing to do | You should carry enough water on the trek. |
| (4) had to (answer) | had to + base verb (the simple form, like go or eat): a past rule or need | In her old school, Riya had to wear a tie every day. |