The market conditions changed dramatically _______ the company revised its strategic plan.
3
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
dramatically, accordingly
B
dramatically; accordingly,
C
dramatically: accordingly,
D
dramatically—accordingly,
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. This question tests punctuation with conjunctive adverbs.
- Context clues: Two independent clauses connected by "accordingly."
- Meaning: Use semicolon before and comma after conjunctive adverbs.
- Verify: "The market conditions changed dramatically; accordingly, the company revised..." is correct.
💡 Strategy: Use semicolon + conjunctive adverb + comma between independent clauses.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma before "accordingly" 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.