_______ the Board approved the merger unanimously.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
After reviewing the financial projections
After reviewing, the financial projections,
After reviewing the financial projections,
After reviewing the financial projections;
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. This question tests comma usage after introductory phrases.
- Context clues: A participial phrase introduces the main clause.
- Meaning: Use a comma after an introductory phrase.
- Verify: "After reviewing the financial projections, the Board approved..." correctly separates.
💡 Strategy: Use a comma after introductory participial phrases.
Choice A is incorrect because it lacks the required comma. Choice B is incorrect because the comma after "reviewing" splits the phrase incorrectly. Choice D is incorrect because a semicolon cannot connect a phrase to a clause.