Trying to secure the patent for his invention, _________
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
the application process was found to be tedious by the engineer.
the engineer found the application process to be tedious.
the tediousness of the application process frustrated the engineer.
it was a tedious application process for the engineer.
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The introductory phrase "Trying to secure the patent" describes a person's effort. "The engineer" is the correct subject.
Choice A is incorrect because "the application process" cannot try to secure a patent. Choice C is incorrect because "the tediousness" cannot try to secure a patent. Choice D is incorrect because "it" cannot try to secure a patent.