3. Which is the best way to revise and combine the underlined portions of sentences 9 and 10: 'The chips remained a local delicacy until the Prohibition era. This is when an entrepreneur named Herman Lay popularized the product throughout the Southeastern United States'?
Answer: D
era, when
The best way to revise and combine the underlined portions is "era, when," as it effectively links the two sentences while maintaining clarity and conciseness. This option avoids unnecessary words and directly connects the time frame with the action of popularization.
A) era, this is when
This option is incorrect because the phrase "this is when" adds unnecessary verbosity to the sentence. The revision could be more concise; therefore, it does not improve the flow of the combined sentences.
B) era, then
While this option is grammatically correct, "then" may imply a chronological sequence that is not as direct as "when." It does not offer the same clarity in linking the Prohibition era to the subsequent action of popularization.
C) era, which is when
This choice is less effective because "which is when" introduces a relative clause that complicates the sentence structure. This makes the sentence longer and less direct than necessary, detracting from the clarity.
D) era, when
This option is the best choice as it succinctly connects the two ideas without adding unnecessary words. It maintains the clarity of the timeline and the connection between the era and the entrepreneur's actions.
Conclusion
Option D is the most effective revision, as it creates a clear and concise connection between the Prohibition era and Herman Lay's actions. The other options either introduce unnecessary complexity or do not maintain the direct relationship needed for clarity. Thus, D not only adheres to the principles of good writing but also enhances the overall flow of the narrative.