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Standard English ConventionsEasyComma after a sentence-opening 'In the end'

Standard English Conventions practice question

Three designs were shortlisted and debated for months. ____ the committee chose the cheapest of the three.

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

  1. A. In the end,Correct
  2. B. In the end
  3. C. In the end;
  4. D. In the end.

Answer: A. In the end,

'In the end' opens the sentence as a transitional phrase and is followed by a comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. In the end
Without the comma, the phrase runs into the clause.
C. In the end;
A semicolon needs a complete clause before it.
D. In the end.
'In the end.' is a fragment.

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