SAT English Practice Question

The author chose to use a semicolon to separate the two independent clauses in the sentence, because the semicolon is the best punctuation mark to join two closely related ideas. The semicolon is the best choice for this sentence because it helps to create a smooth and natural transition between the two main clauses. What is the most likely reason why the writer used a semicolon in this sentence?

1. A.create a sense of contrast between the two main clauses.
2. B.indicate a pause between the two main clauses.
3. C.emphasize the importance of the second main clause.
4. D.join two independent clauses that are closely related.