Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
to use
B
have used
C
having used
D
using
Explanation
Correct answer: B.
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is finite and nonfinite verb forms within a sentence. A main clause requires a finite verb to perform the action of the subject (in this case, “people in the Americas”), and this choice supplies the finite past perfect tense verb “have used” to indicate what people in the Americas used the gourd for.
Why the other choices are wrong
Choice A
Choice A is incorrect because the nonfinite to-infinitive “to use” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite verb.
Choice C
Choice C is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “having used” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite verb.
Choice D
Choice D is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “using” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite verb.