Explanation:
When converting direct speech to indirect speech, the question form needs to be changed based on the type of sentence and its tense. In this case, the direct question “Did you not go to the market?” becomes an indirect question, requiring the word “if” or “whether” and a change in tense. Since the original sentence is in the past simple tense (“Did you not go”), it converts to the past perfect tense in indirect speech (“had not gone”).
Rules for Converting Direct to Indirect Speech:
- Pronoun Changes: Pronouns change according to the context. For example, “you” becomes “she” in indirect speech.
- Tense Changes:
– Simple present changes to simple past.
– Simple past changes to past perfect.
– Present continuous changes to past continuous.
– Present perfect changes to past perfect.
– Will/shall change to would/should.
3. Question Forms: When converting questions, we use “if” or “whether” in indirect speech and remove the question format (i.e., no question mark).
4. No Question Mark: Indirect speech does not end with a question mark. Instead, it ends with a period.
Unique Examples of Direct and indirect MCQs
- Direct Speech: He said, “Are you coming to the meeting tomorrow?”
– Indirect Speech: He asked if I was coming to the meeting the next day.
- Direct Speech: She asked, “Where did you leave the keys?”
– Indirect Speech: She asked where I had left the keys.
- Direct Speech: He said to me, “Did you finish your homework?”
– Indirect Speech: He asked me if I had finished my homework.
- Direct Speech: They said, “Can we join the party?”
– Indirect Speech: They asked if they could join the party.
Conclusion of Direct and indirect MCQs
Converting direct speech to indirect speech involves changing the pronouns, adjusting the tense, and removing the question form when necessary. Using “if” or “whether” to introduce indirect questions is a common rule. By following these rules, you can accurately convert sentences while keeping the meaning intact.