The evidence strongly supports the hypothesis _______ more research is needed to confirm the findings.
1
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
hypothesis, nonetheless
B
hypothesis; nonetheless,
C
hypothesis: nonetheless,
D
hypothesis—nonetheless,
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. This question tests punctuation with conjunctive adverbs.
- Context clues: Two independent clauses connected by "nonetheless."
- Meaning: Use semicolon before and comma after a conjunctive adverb joining independent clauses.
- Verify: "The evidence strongly supports the hypothesis; nonetheless, more research is needed" is correct.
💡 Strategy: Conjunctive adverbs (nonetheless, however, therefore) between independent clauses: semicolon + adverb + comma.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma before "nonetheless" creates a comma splice. Choice C is incorrect because a colon doesn't precede conjunctive adverbs. Choice D is incorrect because a dash doesn't pair with conjunctive adverbs this way.