Texas Court Reporter Practice Exam

Which word completes this sentence correctly? The research was conducted ____ several phases.

1. through

2. thoroughly

3. though

4. although

The correct answer is: through

The sentence requires a word that implies the research was conducted in multiple stages or steps, and "through" fits this context appropriately. Using "through" suggests a process that occurs over several phases, indicating a passage from one phase to another without interruption. This aligns with how research is typically organized and conducted, where different phases represent distinct stages in the research process. In contrast, the other terms do not logically complete the sentence in a way that conveys the intended meaning. "Thoroughly" refers to the extent or degree to which the research was conducted but does not fit the phrasal structure required. "Though" usually introduces a contrast or concession, making it unsuitable in this context. "Although" also serves to present a contrast, which does not correspond to the statement about conducting research in phases. Therefore, "through" is the most fitting choice for completing the sentence.