How to use prepositions of time?

[Ra Ny]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #203 "Prepositions of Time and Date (1)", question 7

I called in to make an appointment and I can see the doctor ......... 3 pm. Can you come with me?

(a) (none)
(b) on
(c) at

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #203 "Prepositions of Time and Date (1)", answer 7

I called in to make an appointment and I can see the doctor at 3 pm. Can you come with me?

Correct answer: (c) at
_________________________

please explain this question

[Mister Micawber]

We are testing the use of the prepositions with time units. The rule is:

'At' a time ('at 3:00', 'at noon')
'On' a day ('on Tuesday', 'on August 26th')
'In' a month, year, etc. ('in August', 'in 2009')

Also remember these phrases: 'in the morning', 'in the afternoon', 'in the evening', 'at night'.
_________________
Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Saneta]

I called in= 'rang sb up' or 'called by', in above context?

Thanks :-))

[Mister Micawber]

called in= 'rang sb up'-- Yes.
'called by' -- No.
_________________
Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Saneta]

Ok, but in diffirent context than in the above sentence: 'call in' can mean 'call by'=visit usually for a short time?

Thanks.

[Mister Micawber]

'Call by' does not seem natural to me. Perhaps it is BrE? 'Stop by' and 'drop by' are common in AmE.
_________________
Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Beeesneees]

'Call by' is in use in Britain, though 'drop by' is far more common.
_________________
Cheers m' dears!