Each of the participating scientists must submit _______ research findings by the end of the month.
2
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
their
B
its
C
our
D
his or her
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. This question tests pronoun-antecedent agreement with indefinite pronouns.
- Context clues: "Each" is the antecedent (singular indefinite pronoun).
- Meaning: In formal writing, singular indefinite pronouns take singular pronouns.
- Verify: "Each... must submit his or her research findings" maintains formal agreement.
💡 Strategy: Indefinite pronouns like "each," "every," and "everyone" are singular and require singular pronoun references in formal contexts.
Choice A is incorrect because "their" is plural (though increasingly accepted informally). Choice B is incorrect because "its" refers to non-human antecedents. Choice C is incorrect because "our" shifts to first person inappropriately.