Set 12: Form, Structure & Sense (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The results of the experiment, while _______ suggest that the hypothesis warrants further investigation.
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 function and text organization. 'While inconclusive' is parenthetical. A comma after 'inconclusive' closes the interruption before the main verb 'suggest.' Each sentence in a well-constructed text serves a specific purpose. Consider what role this sentence plays in the argument: does it introduce, support, contrast, or conclude an idea? Understanding why an author includes specific sentences helps you grasp the overall argument. Each sentence should serve a clear purpose: introducing ideas, providing evidence, acknowledging counterarguments, or drawing conclusions. Identify the role to understand the structure.
Key Evidence:
• "The results of the experiment, while"
• "suggest that the hypothesis"
Why others are wrong: B (A semicolon is too strong for closing a parenthetical phrase.), C (Missing punctuation fails to close the parenthetical phrase.), D (A colon doesn't fit for closing a parenthetical phrase.).
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