1. What is the comparative or superlative degree of the following adjectives and adverbs, after opening the brackets?

I understand that you would like a detailed and thorough answer with explanations or step-by-step solutions for each question. Here are the answers to the given questions:

1. The adjective "incredible" has the comparative degree "more incredible" and the superlative degree "most incredible." By adding "more" before the adjective, we form the comparative degree, which indicates a higher degree of the adjective. By adding "most" before the adjective, we form the superlative degree, which indicates the highest degree of the adjective.

2. The question implies that not always the brightest students perform well in tests. This indicates that there are students who may not be academically strong but still perform well in tests. It highlights the fact that academic intelligence is not the sole factor determining success in tests.

3. The sentence is comparing the durability of Tervlene shirts and the comfort of cotton shirts. To express this comparison, we have two options: "more hard-wearing" for Tervlene shirts being more durable than cotton shirts, and "much more comfortable" for cotton shirts being significantly more comfortable than Tervlene shirts.

4. In terms of depth, Lake Superior is deeper than Lake Michigan. Lake Superior has a maximum depth of 406 meters, while Lake Michigan has a maximum depth of 281 meters.

5. The question asks about the difference in self-confidence between the present and the past. To compare the two levels of self-confidence, we can say "she is much more self-confident now compared to before."

6. The question asks for the tallest man among the guests, as well as whether he is a basketball player. To address both parts of the question, we can say "the tallest man among the guests is [name] and yes, he is a basketball player."

7. The sentence states that both individuals are liked, but it asks which one is easier to talk to. To compare the ease of conversation, we can say "Kate is easier to talk to."

I hope these answers provide the level of detail and clarification you were looking for. Let me know if there is anything else I can assist you with!