The initial test results were promising _______ further analysis revealed significant methodological issues.
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readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
promising, however
B
promising however,
C
promising: however,
D
promising; however,
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. This question tests punctuation with "however" as a conjunctive adverb.
- Context clues: Two independent clauses are connected by "however."
- Meaning: Use semicolon before and comma after "however" when it joins independent clauses.
- Verify: "The initial test results were promising; however, further analysis revealed..." is correctly punctuated.
💡 Strategy: When "however" joins independent clauses, use semicolon + however + comma.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma before "however" creates a comma splice. Choice B is incorrect because it lacks proper punctuation before "however." Choice C is incorrect because a colon doesn't precede conjunctive adverbs.