The new technology _______ developed by a team of engineers in Silicon Valley _______ promises to revolutionize how we store and access data.

5
reading

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

A

developed by a team of engineers in Silicon Valley

B

, developed by a team of engineers in Silicon Valley

C

, developed by a team of engineers in Silicon Valley,

D

developed by a team of engineers in Silicon Valley,

Correct Answer: C

Choice C is the best answer. This question tests comma usage with nonessential (nonrestrictive) phrases.

  1. Context clues: The phrase provides extra information but isn't essential to identify the technology.
  2. Meaning: Nonessential phrases are set off by commas on both sides.
  3. Verify: "The new technology, developed by a team of engineers in Silicon Valley, promises to revolutionize..." correctly brackets the phrase.

💡 Strategy: Set off nonessential phrases with commas on both sides when they appear mid-sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because it lacks both necessary commas. Choice B is incorrect because it lacks the closing comma. Choice D is incorrect because it lacks the opening comma.