Reducing the population of Japanese beetles is done most easily by app

OFFICIAL EXPLANATION






• Split #1: most easily, more easily, and easier

More easily is correct because we are comparing only 2 processes.
→ Correct: She jumped over the short wall more easily than over the very tall wall..

Easier is incorrect.
→ Easier is an adjective that modifies a noun
→ His job is easier than her job.
→ Easier is not an adverb that modifies a verb such as is done

Most easily is incorrect.
\When we compare only two things, we use the word more instead of most.
In this sentence, one thing is done more easily than another thing.

Eliminate options A, B, and D

• Split #2: the construction is more . . . than
The construction is not more . . . rather than.

In comparisons, the word "more" is always followed by than.
→ option E uses rather than applying
We already know that we are making a comparison. We do not need rather.

→ Option E repeats applying but neglects to repeat "by."
Both words (by and applying) should be dropped or both should be kept — shameekv1989 you are correct
We can kill insects more easily by applying A to B rather than applying C to D.
more easily by applying pesticides to turf-dwelling young larva in late summer rather than applying
→ If we compare options C and E, the end of option E is hard to integrate with the rest of the sentence.
→ If you do not see the reasons above to eliminate E, notice that C and E say almost exactly the same thing but option E uses more words. Eliminate on the basis of concision.

Eliminate E

The best answer is C

COMMENTS

Deeksha93 , welcome to SC Butler. You asked a good question.

These explanations are very good, as is the question.
Nice work. Kudos to all.