PSAT Writing and Language Question 434: Answer and Explanation

Question: 434

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. reader; Ella later called Louisiana, endeavors
• C. reader: Ella—later called Louisiana, endeavors
• D. reader; Ella, later called Louisiana, endeavors

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) This choice separates the two independent clauses with a semicolon. Moreover, it surrounds the parenthetical phrase with commas. Choice (A) is wrong because this option results in a run-on sentence. Choice (B) is incorrect because there is not a comma at the beginning of the parenthetical phrase. The answer is not choice (C) because there is inconsistent punctuation around the parenthetical phrase.