The adjective 'arduous' is frequently misspelled by omitting the first 'u'.
Always remember the rhythmic pronunciation of 'ar-du-ous' to help lock in its correct spelling.
Step 1: Find the incorrectly spelled word. Scan each option for spelling errors against the standard dictionary form. Step 2: Check each option. Option 1 - dexterous: correct. Option 2 - acuminous: correct. Option 3 - ardous: incorrect; the correct spelling is arduous (includes the letter u). Option 4 - sagacious: correct. Step 3: Confirm. Arduous means demanding great effort; dropping the u gives the misspelled ardous, making option 3 the answer. \[ \boxed{\text{ardous}} \]