A degree in philosophy is often criticized for lacking a direct path to a specific ___________ critical thinking.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
job, however, those who study it develop one key skill:
job: however, those who study it develop one key skill;
job- however, those who study it develop one key skill
job; however, those who study it develop one key skill:
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. A semicolon separates independent clauses ("...lacking a direct path..." and "however, those who study..."). The colon at the end introduces the skill ("critical thinking").
Choice A is incorrect because it creates a comma splice. Choice B is incorrect because a colon cannot be used with "however" to join clauses. Choice C is incorrect because a dash is not used with "however" in this way.