The _______ analysis revealed significant patterns in consumer behavior that had previously gone unnoticed by marketing teams.

5
reading

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A

researchers'

B

researcher's

C

researchers

D

researchers's

Correct Answer: A

Choice A is the best answer. This question tests apostrophe placement for plural possession.

  1. Context clues: Multiple researchers possess the analysis.
  2. Meaning: For plural nouns ending in "s," add only an apostrophe after the "s."
  3. Verify: "The researchers' analysis" shows possession by multiple researchers.

💡 Strategy: For plural nouns ending in "s," form the possessive by adding only an apostrophe (researchers').

Choice B is incorrect because "researcher's" indicates singular possession. Choice C is incorrect because it lacks any possessive marker. Choice D is incorrect because "researchers's" is not standard English.