1.   Fill in gaps by using short, upward strokes of the pencil.

2.   Venture capitalists attempt to fill the information gap by close examination and control of companies, which should reduce the risk of loss.

3.   The government says local authorities can narrow the care gap by pushing down prices in the independent sector.

4.   Although the salary gap by gender in technology-related fields is not as wide as in other professions, women are still paid less than their male counterparts.

5.   A state so eager to trumpet statewide success when the failure gap by color has increased keeps its commitment to all children open to question.

6.   A strong dollar increases the gap by making U.S. exports to Japan more expensive and Japanese exports to the U.S. cheaper.

7.   A stronger dollar could help expand the gap by making Japanese exports less expensive in the American market.

8.   But last month, the Clinton administration sought to bridge the gap by signing a U.S.-Baltic charter with the presidents of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

9.   Clinton has tried to bridge the gap by arguing for both private and government action.

10.   Even when Dinkins showed irritation with reporters, his aides frequently bridged the gap by giving reporters the information or explanations they needed.