Question #N1274
Which choice correctly punctuates the following sentence? The company decided, to invest in a new product line: a decision that would require significant capital.
A. The company decided to invest in a new product line: a decision that would require significant capital.
B. The company decided, to invest in a new product line; a decision that would require significant capital.
C. The company decided, to invest in a new product line, a decision that would require significant capital.
D. The company decided to invest in a new product line, a decision that would require significant capital.
Correct Answer is: D
The phrase “a decision that would require significant capital” is a nonessential clause that modifies the noun phrase “a new product line.” Nonessential clauses are set off with commas. Choice A is incorrect because the colon should not be used in this context. Choice B is incorrect because the semicolon should not be used in this context. Choice C is incorrect because the comma after “product line” should be a semicolon.