Analyzing the quarterly data, _________
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
the error was noticed by the accountant before the report was finalized.
the accountant noticed the error before finalizing the report.
it was noticed by the accountant that there was an error before the report was finalized.
the report was finalized only after the accountant noticed the error.
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The introductory phrase "Analyzing the quarterly data" describes an action performed by a person. "The accountant" is the logical subject to follow the comma.
Choice A is incorrect because "the error" cannot analyze data. Choice C is incorrect because "it" is a dummy subject and cannot analyze data. Choice D is incorrect because "the report" cannot analyze data.