This text investigates the efficacy of standardized diagnostic testing as a method for identifying specific linguistic proficiencies and deficiencies in students. F. Eleanor Schonell, an established educator and researcher in the field of literacy, utilizes a structured framework of assessment to evaluate student performance. The book presents a series of diagnostic instruments designed to measure vocabulary, comprehension, and grammatical accuracy within an academic context.

Educators and researchers frequently cite this work as a historical reference for the development of diagnostic testing in English language instruction. Experts note that while the specific test items may be dated, the underlying methodology remains a foundational example of early educational assessment practices.