16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsEasyComma after an opening when clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

When the kettle ____ pour the water into the pot.

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

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

Answer: A. boils,

An opening "When" clause is followed by a comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. boils;
A semicolon needs a complete sentence before it.
C. boils
The clause runs into the instruction.
D. boils:
A colon does not follow an introductory clause.

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