Set 6: Boundaries (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
A number of factors _______ contributing to the company's recent success in the market.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Detailed Answer Explanation
This question tests your understanding of sentence boundaries and punctuation. 'A number of' is always plural (unlike 'the number of,' which is singular). Use plural 'are.' To determine the correct answer, examine where complete thoughts begin and end. Look for independent clauses that need proper separation. A period, semicolon, or appropriate conjunction can correctly join or separate these ideas. When analyzing sentence boundaries, pay attention to how ideas flow from one sentence to the next. Correct punctuation ensures clarity and prevents confusion for readers. Review the options carefully to identify which choice creates proper sentence structure.
Key Evidence:
• "A number of (plural)"
Why others are wrong: B ('Was' is singular.), A ('Is' is singular; 'a number of' takes plural.), D ('Has been' is singular.).
🎯 Keep Practicing!
Master all sections for your best SAT score