The proposal seemed financially sound _______ closer analysis revealed several critical flaws.

2
reading

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

A

sound, however

B

sound however,

C

sound; however,

D

sound: however,

Correct Answer: C

Choice C is the best answer. This question tests punctuation with conjunctive adverbs.

  1. Context clues: Two independent clauses connected by "however."
  2. Meaning: Use semicolon before and comma after conjunctive adverbs.
  3. Verify: "The proposal seemed financially sound; however, closer analysis revealed..." is correct.

💡 Strategy: Use semicolon + conjunctive adverb + comma between independent clauses.

Choice A is incorrect because a comma before "however" creates a comma splice. Choice B is incorrect because it lacks the semicolon. Choice D is incorrect because a colon doesn't precede conjunctive adverbs.