16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsVery hardNo colon after 'including'

Standard English Conventions practice question

The exhibit features several early keyboard instruments ____ a harpsichord, a clavichord and a small pipe organ.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

  1. A. instruments, including aCorrect
  2. B. instruments including: a
  3. C. instruments: including a
  4. D. instruments; including a

Answer: A. instruments, including a

'including' introduces the examples on its own. The phrase 'including a harpsichord...' is a nonessential addition, set off with a comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. instruments including: a
A colon never follows 'including' — 'including' already does the introducing.
C. instruments: including a
A colon before 'including' puts two introducers in a row.
D. instruments; including a
A semicolon needs a complete clause on each side; 'including a harpsichord...' isn't one.

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