Question #N820

A team of researchers has been studying the effects of different types of music on the brain. One researcher, Dr. Emily Peterson, says that listening to classical music helps to improve focus and concentration. However, another researcher, Dr. Ben Wright, has found that listening to more energetic music, such as pop or rock, can help to improve creativity and mood. Dr. Peterson’s research suggests that classical music is more beneficial for tasks that require focused attention, while Dr. Wright’s research suggests that more energetic music is more beneficial for tasks that require creativity and inspiration. Which type of music is best for you depends on your individual preferences and the task at hand. But the researchers agree that listening to music can have a positive effect on the brain.

Which of the following is the most effective way to combine the two sentences in the underlined portion of the passage? "However, another researcher, Dr. Ben Wright, has found that listening to more energetic music, such as pop or rock, can help to improve creativity and mood. Dr. Peterson’s research suggests that classical music is more beneficial for tasks that require focused attention, while Dr. Wright’s research suggests that more energetic music is more beneficial for tasks that require creativity and inspiration."
A. However, another researcher, Dr. Ben Wright, has found that listening to more energetic music, such as pop or rock, can help to improve creativity and mood, while Dr. Peterson’s research suggests that classical music is more beneficial for tasks that require focused attention.
B. Another researcher, Dr. Ben Wright, has found that listening to more energetic music, such as pop or rock, can help to improve creativity and mood; however, Dr. Peterson’s research suggests that classical music is more beneficial for tasks that require focused attention.
C. Another researcher, Dr. Ben Wright, has found that listening to more energetic music, such as pop or rock, can help to improve creativity and mood; Dr. Peterson’s research suggests that classical music is more beneficial for tasks that require focused attention.
D. Another researcher, Dr. Ben Wright, has found that listening to more energetic music, such as pop or rock, can help to improve creativity and mood, and Dr. Peterson’s research suggests that classical music is more beneficial for tasks that require focused attention.

Correct Answer is: C

The most effective way to combine the two sentences is to use a semicolon to separate them. This creates a smooth transition between the two ideas, and it also helps to emphasize the contrast between the two types of music.