The original design proved impractical _______ the engineers developed an alternative approach.
2
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
impractical, consequently
B
impractical consequently,
C
impractical; consequently,
D
impractical: consequently,
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. This question tests punctuation with conjunctive adverbs.
- Context clues: Two independent clauses connected by "consequently."
- Meaning: Use semicolon before and comma after a conjunctive adverb joining independent clauses.
- Verify: "The original design proved impractical; consequently, the engineers developed..." is correct.
💡 Strategy: Conjunctive adverbs (consequently, however, therefore) between independent clauses: semicolon + adverb + comma.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma before "consequently" creates a comma splice. Choice B is incorrect because it lacks proper punctuation before "consequently." Choice D is incorrect because a colon doesn't precede conjunctive adverbs.