Set 12: Form, Structure & Sense (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The researchers' findings suggest that the relationship between diet and cognitive health is more complex than _______ previously believed.
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. 'Than scientists had previously believed' uses past perfect to show the belief existed before the current findings. The comparison requires a verb. 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:
• "more complex than"
• "previously believed"
Why others are wrong: D ('Have' is present perfect; 'previously' indicates past belief.), C ('Scientists' having' is an awkward gerund construction.), A ('Scientists' lacks a verb; needs finite verb construction.).
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