Question

If you begin a sentence with quote and attach a phrase at the end that cannot stand on its own as a complete sentence, you should use the following punctuation:

A. a comma
B. a colon
C. a semi-colon
D. no punctuation

Answer 1

When integrating a quote into a sentence with a subsequent phrase that is not a standalone sentence, use A. a comma to properly attribute the quote.

Step-by-step explanation:

When you begin a sentence with a quote and attach a phrase at the end that cannot stand on its own as a complete sentence, the correct punctuation to use is a comma. This is because the addition at the end, referred to as a signal phrase, serves as an attribution to the quote and is not an independent clause that can stand alone.

The addition of the comma helps to integrate the quote smoothly into the rest of the sentence, making it easy to read and clear that the following text is a part of or a comment on the quotation. For example, Smith highlights the importance of planning when he says, "A goal without a plan is just a wish," illustrating the necessity for detailed strategy in achieving objectives.

Therefore, the correct option for the student's question is: A. a comma.