The findings were significant _______ they changed how scientists understand climate patterns.
3
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
significant, indeed
B
significant; indeed,
C
significant: indeed,
D
significant—indeed
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. This question tests punctuation with conjunctive adverbs.
- Context clues: Two independent clauses connected by "indeed."
- Meaning: Use semicolon before and comma after a conjunctive adverb joining independent clauses.
- Verify: "The findings were significant; indeed, they changed..." is correctly punctuated.
💡 Strategy: Use semicolon + conjunctive adverb + comma when joining independent clauses.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma before "indeed" creates a comma splice. Choice C is incorrect because a colon doesn't precede conjunctive adverbs. Choice D is incorrect because a dash without comma after "indeed" is incorrect.