The physics student received weeks of specialized tutoring after failing the first exam, _________ her confusion regarding quantum mechanics was never fully resolved and she eventually changed majors.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
but
so
or
DELETE the underlined portion.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The coordinating conjunction "but" signals a contrast between the tutoring received and the unresolved confusion.
Choice B is incorrect because "so" implies a cause-and-effect relationship. Choice C is incorrect because "or" suggests a choice between alternatives. Choice D is incorrect because removing the conjunction creates a comma splice.