TEAS English · Practice Question

    Semicolons: TEAS Practice Question with Answer & Explanation

    An original TEAS 7-style english practice question, written for nursing-school applicants — with a full breakdown of every answer choice.

    Question

    Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

    • A.The lab closed; because the power failed.
    • B.The lab closed; the power had failed.
      Correct
    • C.The lab; closed after lunch.
    • D.Because; the power failed, the lab closed.

    Correct answer: B. A semicolon can join two closely related independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.

    Why B is correct

    A semicolon can join two closely related independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.

    TEAS skill review

    This question tests semicolons, a concept that can appear in the TEAS english section. Read the prompt carefully, identify the rule or evidence being tested, and eliminate options that do not directly satisfy it.

    Why the other choices are incorrect

    The remaining choices conflict with the relevant fact, calculation, language convention, or passage evidence. Check every option against the exact wording of the question rather than choosing an answer that is only generally related to the topic.

    Quick study tip: Both sides of a semicolon must be able to stand alone.

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