Question #N1064
A recent study found that people who spend time in nature report feeling happier and more relaxed. But the study’s results were based on a small sample of people and may not be generalizable to the larger population. Furthermore, the study did not account for other factors that might contribute to feelings of happiness and relaxation, such as income, social support, or physical health.
Which of the following is the most effective way to combine the first two sentences of the passage?
A. A recent study found that people who spend time in nature report feeling happier and more relaxed, but the study’s results were based on a small sample of people and may not be generalizable to the larger population.
B. A recent study found that people who spend time in nature report feeling happier and more relaxed; the study’s results were based on a small sample of people and may not be generalizable to the larger population.
C. A recent study found that people who spend time in nature report feeling happier and more relaxed, however, the study’s results were based on a small sample of people and may not be generalizable to the larger population.
D. A recent study found that people who spend time in nature report feeling happier and more relaxed: the study’s results were based on a small sample of people and may not be generalizable to the larger population.
Correct Answer is: A
Choice A is the best option. The two sentences are combined with a comma and a conjunction, which is the correct way to join two independent clauses. The other choices all create errors. Choice B creates a comma splice, and Choices C and D create a run-on sentence.