16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsMediumColon before a quotation introduced by a full clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

The sign at the trailhead is ____ 'Take only photographs, leave only footprints.'

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

  1. A. blunt:Correct
  2. B. blunt,
  3. C. blunt;
  4. D. blunt

Answer: A. blunt:

A complete clause introducing a quotation can take a colon.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. blunt,
A comma introduces a quotation only after a speech verb like 'says'.
C. blunt;
A semicolon needs an independent clause after it; a quotation used as an example is not one here.
D. blunt
No punctuation runs the clause into the quotation.

More Standard English Conventions questions

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