Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
linguist, Diane Massam,
B
linguist, Diane Massam
C
linguist Diane Massam
D
linguist: Diane Massam
Explanation
Correct answer: C.
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of punctuation between titles and proper nouns. No punctuation is needed to set off the proper noun "Diane Massam" from the title that describes Massam, "linguist." Because "Diane Massam" is essential information identifying the "linguist," no punctuation is necessary.
Why the other choices are wrong
Choice A
Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed before or after the proper noun "Diane Massam." Setting the linguist’s name off with commas suggests that it could be removed without affecting the coherence of the sentence, which isn’t the case.
Choice B
Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is needed.
Choice D
Choice D is incorrect because no punctuation is needed.