Choose the sentence that uses punctuation correctly with a conjunctive adverb joining two independent clauses:

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. The sample size was limited; therefore, the preliminary results should be interpreted cautiously.

  1. Step 1: When connecting two independent clauses with a conjunctive adverb (e.g., therefore, however, furthermore):
  2. Step 2: A semicolon must precede the conjunctive adverb to avoid a comma splice or run-on sentence.
  3. Step 3: A comma must follow the conjunctive adverb to separate it from the subsequent clause.
  4. Step 4: The format is: Clause 1; therefore, Clause 2.
Answer
The sample size was limited; therefore, the preliminary results should be interpreted cautiously.
Why not the others: 'The sample size was limited, therefore the preliminary results should be interpreted cautiously' creates a comma splice error; 'The sample size was limited therefore; the preliminary results should be interpreted cautiously' misplaces the semicolon after the adverb; 'The sample size was limited; therefore the preliminary results, should be interpreted cautiously' omits the comma after 'therefore' and creates an erroneous comma between subject and verb.

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