One of the greatest advances in modern technology has been the invention of computers. They are already widely used in industry and in universities and the time may come when it will be possible ________ (1) ordinary people to use them as well. Computers are capable of doing extremely complicated work in all branches of learning. They can solve the most complex mathematical problems or put thousands of unrelated facts in order. These machines can be put ________ (2) varied uses. For instance, they can provide information ________ (3) the best way ________ (4) prevent traffic accidents, or they can count the number ________ (5) times the word ‘and’ has been used ________ (6) the Bible. Because they work accurately and ________ (7) high speeds, they save research workers years of hard work. This whole process ________ (8) which machines can be used to work ________ (9) us has been called automation. In the future, automation may enable human beings ________ (10) enjoy far more leisure than they do today. The coming of automation is bound ________ (11) have important social consequences.

Some time ago an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that these machines could ‘think’. There is no possibility that human beings will be controlled ________ (12) machines. Though computers are capable of learning________ (13) their mistakes and improving on their performance, they need detailed instructions ________ (14) human beings in order to be able to operate. They can never, as it were, lead independent lives, or rule the world ________ (15) making decisions ________ (16) their own.

Sir Leon said that in the future, computers would be developed which would be small enough to carry ________ (17) the pocket. Ordinary people would then be able to use them to obtain valuable information. Computers could be plugged ________ (18) a national network and ________ (19) used like radios. For instance, people going on holiday could be informed about weather conditions; car drivers could be given alternative routes when there are traffic jams. It will also be possible to make tiny translating machines. This will enable people who do not share a common language to talk ________ (20) each other ________ (21) any difficulty or to read foreign publications. It is impossible to assess the importance ________ (22) a machine of this sort, for many international misunderstandings are caused simply through our failure ________ (23) understand each other. Computers will also be used in hospitals. ________ (24) providing a machine ________ (25) a patient’s symptoms, a doctor will be able to diagnose the nature of his illness. Similarly, machines could be used to keep a check ________ (26) a patient’s health record and bring it up to date. Doctors will therefore have immediate access ________ (27) a great many facts which will help them in their work. Book-keepers and accountants, too, could be relieved________ (28) dull clerical work, for the tedious task of compiling and checking lists of figures could be done entirely ________ (29) machines. Computers are the most efficient servants man has ever had and there is no limit ________ (30) the way they can be used to improve our lives.