Question

read the following passage:
i planned to meet eliza and dominic at the library to study for our u.s. history exam. i arrived first, so i started to study before them. unfortunately, neither showed up. the next day, we took the test, and i think i did really well. eliza and dominic were not as confident as i was.
which word or phrase most effectively connects the topics in the passage to make the story coherent?
a. the next day
b. planned to meet
c. not as confident
d. unfortunately

Explanation:

The passage moves from the failed study plan to the exam results. "Unfortunately" signals the negative turn of the study plan falling through, which directly leads to the contrast in exam confidence. Other options either mark a time shift, set up the initial plan, or describe the final outcome, but do not connect the failed plan to the subsequent exam performance as effectively.

Answer:

D. Unfortunately