Set 13: Boundaries
Explanation
PASSAGE
The report identified three key _______ inadequate funding, outdated infrastructure, and insufficient training.
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 colon introduces a list when preceded by an independent clause. 'The report identified three key problems' is complete. 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"
• "list follows"
Why others are wrong: D (Punctuation is needed before the list.), A (Semicolon should join independent clauses, not introduce a list.), B (Comma is weaker than colon for introducing a formal list.).
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