The theory, along with its supporting evidence, _______ published in a leading scientific journal.
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readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
was
B
were
C
have been
D
are
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This question tests subject-verb agreement with interrupting phrases.
- Context clues: The subject is "theory" (singular); "along with" doesn't create a compound subject.
- Meaning: Phrases like "along with," "as well as," and "in addition to" don't affect subject-verb agreement.
- Verify: "The theory... was published" correctly uses singular verb.
💡 Strategy: Phrases set off by commas (along with, as well as, together with) don't change subject number.
Choice B is incorrect because "were" is plural. Choice C is incorrect because "have been" is plural. Choice D is incorrect because "are" is plural.