Question #N1208

The debate about the role of social media in modern society has been ongoing for years. Some people argue that social media is a valuable tool that can be used to connect with others, share information, and build community. They point to the many ways that social media has been used to organize protests, raise awareness about important issues, and provide support to those in need. Others argue that social media is a harmful force that can be used to spread misinformation, promote hatred, and create echo chambers. They point to the many cases of social media being used to spread false information, incite violence, and contribute to the spread of harmful ideologies. The debate is likely to continue for many years to come, but it is clear that social media has had a profound impact on modern society, and it is important to understand the ways in which it can be used for both good and bad. Which of the following choices best completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

The debate is likely to continue for many years to come, but it is clear that social media has had a profound impact on modern society, and it is important to understand the ways in which it can be used for both good and bad.
A. but it is clear that social media has had a profound impact on modern society, and it is important to understand the ways in which it can be used for both good and bad.
B. it is clear that social media has had a profound impact on modern society, and it is important to understand the ways in which it can be used for both good and bad.
C. but it is clear that social media has had a profound impact on modern society, and it is important to understand the ways in which it can be used for both good and bad.
D. but it is clear that social media has had a profound impact on modern society, and it is important to understand the ways in which it can be used for both good and bad.

Correct Answer is: A

Choice A is the best answer because it uses a comma to separate the two independent clauses that follow the conjunction "but." This is the correct way to punctuate a complex sentence with two independent clauses. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they all result in comma splices, which occur when two independent clauses are joined together with only a comma.