Set 8: Boundaries (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The evidence presented at trial _______ circumstantial, the jury nevertheless found the defendant guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
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. 'The evidence presented at trial was largely circumstantial' is a complete independent clause. The comma after 'circumstantial' (already in sentence) separates it from the contrasting clause. 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:
• "independent clause"
• "no extra punctuation needed before 'was'"
Why others are wrong: A (Semicolon is incorrect here AND 'being' is awkward.), D (Comma before 'was' incorrectly separates subject from verb.), C ('Being' creates a fragment or awkward participle.).
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