The keynote speaker _______ a renowned neuroscientist from MIT _______ presented groundbreaking research on memory formation.
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readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
, a renowned neuroscientist from MIT,
B
a renowned neuroscientist from MIT
C
—a renowned neuroscientist from MIT,
D
—a renowned neuroscientist from MIT—
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. This question tests dash usage for emphatic appositives.
- Context clues: The appositive emphasizes the speaker's credentials.
- Meaning: Dashes must be used in pairs for mid-sentence interruptions.
- Verify: "The keynote speaker—a renowned neuroscientist from MIT—presented..." adds emphasis.
💡 Strategy: Use matching dashes for emphatic parenthetical information.
Choice A is incorrect because commas work but provide less emphasis. Choice B is incorrect because punctuation is needed. Choice C is incorrect because dashes must be paired.