Which sentence best integrates the anorexia quotation with proper introductory phrasing?

• A. Highlighting the seriousness of anorexia, Arnold explains,
• B. Arnold explains Highlighting the seriousness of anorexia,
• C. According to Arnold, anorexia must be taken seriously "Up to one in five..."
• D. The seriousness of anorexia explained by Arnold, explains

Answer: (A)

Using an introductory participial phrase to attach the quotation to the speaker is the cleanest way to introduce a quote. It starts with a brief description of what Arnold is doing, then names him and states the speaking action, which makes clear who is speaking and what they’re addressing. In this structure, the sentence would flow as: Highlighting the seriousness of anorexia, Arnold explains, "Up to one in five..." This keeps the focus on Arnold, signals his source, and smoothly leads into the quotation with proper punctuation.

The other patterns run into problems: placing the introductory phrase after the verb disrupts the natural flow and can make the speakerless or confusing, misplacing the modifier; starting with “According to Arnold” is acceptable but the punctuation around the quote is off, which can make the sentence feel choppy or glommed together; and the awkward passive build in the last option removes the clear, active link to the speaker and the quotation.