PSAT Writing and Language Question 517: Answer and Explanation

Question: 517

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. double consciousness: her White external self attempts to reconcile internal feelings of Blackness.
• C. double consciousness her White external self, attempts to reconcile internal feelings of Blackness.
• D. double consciousness—her White external self—attempts to reconcile internal feelings of Blackness.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) This sentence first mentions "double consciousness" and then proceeds to define that phrase. There must be adequate punctuation to separate the term from the definition. With choice (A), a comma isn't a strong enough pause. A colon or dash would be ideal, and a semicolon could arguably work. However, a comma is not appropriate since it leaves a comma splice. Choice (C) neglects punctuation altogether. Choice (D)'s initial dash is acceptable, but the second dash is unnecessary. This isn't a parenthetical phrase and should not be treated as such. After eliminating those three choices, analyze choice (B). Notice that it is properly punctuated, with the colon serving as a lead-in between the term and the definition.