Examkin

Question

Difficulty: HardColons

In the mid-twentieth century, computer scientist Grace Hopper developed a compiler that translated English-like instructions into machine code, this innovation paved the way for modern programming languages.

Which of the following is the most appropriate punctuation for the underlined portion of the sentence?

  1. A
    code, this innovation paved
  2. code: this innovation pavedAnswer
  3. C
    code because: this innovation paved
  4. D
    code, that paved

Answer

The correct answer is the option that uses a colon to connect the two independent clauses, reading 'code: this innovation paved'.
The correct option correctly uses a colon to separate two independent clauses. The clause preceding the colon, which describes Hopper developing a compiler, can stand alone as a complete sentence. The clause following the colon, which explains that the innovation paved the way for programming languages, directly elaborates on the first. Under standard grammar rules, a colon can connect two independent clauses when the second explains or amplifies the first.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the grammatical structure of the clause preceding the punctuation mark.
The clause 'In the mid-twentieth century, computer scientist Grace Hopper developed a compiler that translated English-like instructions into machine code' is independent because it contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.
A colon can only be used if it is preceded by a complete independent clause.
2
Evaluate the relationship between the first clause and the second clause.
The second clause 'this innovation paved the way for modern programming languages' is also independent and directly explains or amplifies the significance of the first clause.
A colon is appropriate here because it introduces an explanation or elaboration of the preceding independent clause.
3
Identify and eliminate options that violate punctuation rules.
The comma splice, the colon after a subordinating conjunction, and the comma before a restrictive relative clause are all incorrect grammatical structures.
Eliminating these distractors leaves only the correct option with proper colon usage.

Key Concept

Using colons to connect independent clauses where the second explains or amplifies the first.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Rate this question

Topics

Colons

More questions from this topic