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Difficulty: MediumEliminating Redundancy

In 1964, the research submersible *Alvin* was commissioned, allowing scientists to explore the deep ocean floor. Previously before this time, marine biologists relied on indirect measurements; they had no way to observe the abyss directly.

Which of the following is the best version of the underlined portion of the sentence?

  1. A
    Previously before this time, marine biologists relied on indirect measurements;
  2. Previously, marine biologists relied on indirect measurements;Answer
  3. C
    Because marine biologists had previously relied on indirect measurements;
  4. D
    Previously, marine biologists relied on indirect measurements,

Answer

Previously, marine biologists relied on indirect measurements;
The correct answer removes the redundant phrase 'before this time' because 'Previously' already communicates that this happened in the past. It also correctly retains the semicolon to separate the two independent clauses.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the redundant elements in the original underlined portion.
The words 'Previously' and 'before this time' are redundant because they both express the exact same temporal relationship.
ACT style guides require eliminating unnecessary words that repeat the same meaning.
2
Evaluate the remaining options for grammatical correctness and correct clause separation.
The option using a comma instead of a semicolon creates a comma splice. The option starting with 'Because' creates a dependent clause fragment before the semicolon. Only the option containing 'Previously,' followed by a semicolon is grammatically correct and concise.
The correct choice must eliminate redundancy without introducing errors in punctuation or sentence structure.

Key Concept

Eliminating redundancy involves removing words or phrases that repeat information already expressed in the sentence, while ensuring the sentence structure remains grammatically sound.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Eliminating Redundancy

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