16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsEasy–MediumComma after an opening 'while' clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

While the bread was ____ she set the table.

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

  1. A. baking,Correct
  2. B. baking;
  3. C. baking
  4. D. baking, and

Answer: A. baking,

A dependent 'while' clause opening the sentence takes a comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. baking;
A semicolon needs an independent clause before it.
C. baking
No boundary after the opener.
D. baking, and
'And' has nothing to join.

More Standard English Conventions questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.