Question

Early mariners from the Vikings to medieval explorers were usually able to find their way if they employed early man-made navigation tools such as rudimentary magnetic compasses, geomagnetic lodestones, astrolabes, first used in classical antiquity, or the sun and stars.

• A. geomagnetic lodestones, astrolabes, first used in classical antiquity, or the sun and stars.
• B. geomagnetic lodestones, astrolabes, which were first used in classical antiquity, or the sun and stars.
• C. geomagnetic lodestones, and astrolabes, first used in classical antiquity, or if they could read the sun and stars.
• D. geomagnetic lodestones, or astrolabes, first used in classical antiquity, or the reading of the sun and stars.
• E. geomagnetic lodestones, astrolabes, first used in classical antiquity, and the sun and stars.

Hint:

When creating a list in a sentence, ensure that all elements are presented consistently and clearly to avoid confusing the reader.

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

Step 1: Analyzing the structure of the sentence.
The sentence lists several navigation tools and methods. To maintain clarity, the list should include items in a consistent manner without excessive or misplaced clauses.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) is awkward as it suggests that "geomagnetic lodestones" and "astrolabes" are both first used in antiquity, which is not the clearest way to express the intended meaning.
- (B) uses a comma after "astrolabes" and introduces "which were first used," which unnecessarily complicates the structure.
- (C) includes "if they could read the sun and stars," which deviates from the intended structure of listing tools, not conditions for use.
- (D) changes the meaning slightly by introducing "or the reading of the sun and stars," which is less consistent with the other items in the list.
- (E) maintains the consistency of the list by properly separating the items and concluding with "and the sun and stars." This option keeps the intended meaning intact.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Option (E) is the best choice as it maintains the clarity and consistency of the list, ensuring that all items are properly connected.