9

Set 13: Boundaries

Explanation

Answer: D

PASSAGE

Sarah wanted to visit the _______ she didn't have enough time before her flight.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. museum but
B. museum; but
C. museum: but
D. museum, but✓ Correct

Detailed Answer Explanation

This question tests your understanding of sentence boundaries and punctuation. Two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (but) require a comma before the conjunction. 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:

• "two independent clauses"

• "coordinating conjunction (but)"

Why others are wrong: A (Missing comma before coordinating conjunction 'but.'), C (Colon is incorrect before a coordinating conjunction.), B (Semicolon should not be used with a coordinating conjunction.).

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