Final answer:
The best way to correct the tense shift in the given sentence is to replace 'had been choosing' with 'chose' to keep the past tense consistent throughout the sentence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question of how to fix the tense shift in the sentence 'When they had been choosing to go to the dude ranch, they did not know how far a drive it was from the airport.' is option C) chose. The bolded phrase 'had been choosing' should be modified to 'chose' to maintain a consistent past tense throughout the sentence, thereby correcting the tense inconsistency.
In simple sentences like this one, it's important to select a verb tense that accurately reflects the time frame of the events being described. Writers must choose the appropriate verb form that matches the context of the sentence without inadvertently shifting tenses.
Verb tenses allow us to position events in time and maintain consistency within our writing. Getting verb tenses correct ensures clarity and cohesion in written communication.