5
Answer: ASet 17: Form, Structure & Sense
Explanation
PASSAGE
The research proposal, which exceeded expectations, _______ studied extensively.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. has been✓ Correct
B. have been
C. were
D. being
Detailed Answer Explanation
The correct answer is 'has been' because of the rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject.
Why others are wrong: B ('have been' violates the grammatical rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject.), C ('were' violates the grammatical rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject.), D ('being' violates the grammatical rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject.).