The program teaches three essential skills _______ coding, data analysis, and project management.

6
reading

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A

skills,

B

skills;

C

skills:

D

skills—

Correct Answer: C

Choice C is the best answer. This question tests colon usage before a list.

  1. Context clues: A complete sentence introduces a list of specific skills.
  2. Meaning: Use a colon after a complete sentence to introduce a list.
  3. Verify: "The program teaches three essential skills: coding, data analysis, and project management" correctly introduces.

💡 Strategy: A colon can introduce a list when preceded by a complete sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because a comma doesn't properly introduce a list. Choice B is incorrect because semicolons don't introduce lists. Choice D is incorrect because while a dash works, a colon is standard for lists.