Students _______ have completed the prerequisite courses may register for advanced seminars.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
who have completed the prerequisite courses
, who have completed the prerequisite courses,
, who have completed the prerequisite courses
who have completed the prerequisite courses,
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This question tests essential vs. nonessential clauses.
- Context clues: The clause identifies WHICH students may register—essential.
- Meaning: Essential clauses are NOT set off by commas.
- Verify: "Students who have completed the prerequisite courses may register" specifies which students.
💡 Strategy: Essential clauses (identifying who/what) take no commas.
Choice B is incorrect because commas make it nonessential. Choice C is incorrect because one comma is grammatically inconsistent. Choice D is incorrect because one comma after is grammatically incorrect.