16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsMediumComma before a coordinating conjunction joining two clauses

Standard English Conventions practice question

The tide tables are printed ____ but most of the fishermen carry them in their heads.

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

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

Answer: A. annually,

A comma before 'but' joining two independent clauses.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. annually
Long independent clauses joined by 'but' take a comma.
C. annually;
A semicolon and a conjunction together is one too many.
D. annually, and
'And but' is not a pairing.

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