Question #N934

Many people believe that a good education involves the ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. However, these skills are often overlooked in favor of rote memorization and test-taking strategies, which are often seen as the key to academic success. This narrow focus on memorization can stifle creativity and hinder the development of essential critical thinking skills. What punctuation mark is needed after the phrase “test-taking strategies”?

In the passage above, what punctuation mark is needed after the phrase “test-taking strategies?”
A. A semicolon
B. A colon
C. A comma
D. No punctuation mark is needed

Correct Answer is: C

A comma is needed after “test-taking strategies” to separate the introductory phrase from the main clause. The introductory phrase introduces a list of ideas that are often overlooked in favor of test-taking strategies, and the main clause explains how this narrow focus can stifle creativity. Since the main clause is not a restatement of the introductory phrase, a comma is the most appropriate punctuation mark.