In the checklist passage, choose the correct conjunction to complete the phrase “the answer to every question can only be a binary ‘‘Yes’’ _______ ‘‘No’’ and nothing in between”.

Introduction / Context:
This cloze test item focuses on a very common English pattern used to describe binary choices. The sentence states that if a checklist is framed as a set of questions, “the answer to every question can only be a binary ‘‘Yes’’ _______ ‘‘No’’ and nothing in between.” The writer wants to emphasise that each question has only two possible responses. The blank must therefore be filled with the conjunction that is standardly used to connect two mutually exclusive options in English. Because this is a basic but vital structure, recognising it quickly can save time and marks in the exam.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Key phrase: “binary ‘‘Yes’’ _______ ‘‘No’’ and nothing in between”. • Options: and, or, but, also. • The context is explaining that answers are limited to only two options. • The word “binary” already indicates an either–or type of choice.

Concept / Approach:
When we list two items that are alternatives, especially in the sense of a choice, we normally use the conjunction “or”: for example, “Yes or No”, “true or false”, “pass or fail”. The word “and” is used to join items that can both be true at the same time, which is not the case in a binary-choice situation. The conjunction “but” introduces contrast, and “also” is an adverb meaning “in addition”, so neither of these fits the idea of “one or the other, but not both”. Given the reference to “binary” and “nothing in between”, “or” is the only conjunction that correctly expresses a strict alternative between “Yes” and “No”.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Understand the meaning of “binary” in this context: it refers to exactly two possible outcomes. 2. Recognise the familiar expression “Yes or No” for two-way choices. 3. Examine each option in the phrase: “Yes and No”, “Yes or No”, “Yes but No”, “Yes also No”. 4. Note that only “Yes or No” is standard in English when describing an exclusive choice. 5. Confirm that the sentence then flows naturally to “and nothing in between”, reinforcing the idea of strict alternatives.

Verification / Alternative check:
Insert “or” into the complete sentence: “That means, if the checklist is framed as a set of questions, the answer to every question can only be a binary ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’ and nothing in between; no shades of grey.” This is a very common, almost formulaic description of two-option answers. If you try “and”, the phrase “Yes and No” suggests both answers together or a mixture, which contradicts the idea of binary certainty. “Yes but No” is conversational and does not fit the formal, explanatory style of the passage. “Yes also No” is ungrammatical and meaningless in this context. Thus, “or” is clearly the correct conjunction.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
• “and” implies combination, not choice, so “Yes and No” does not represent a strict binary decision. • “but” introduces contrast and would change the meaning to something like “Yes, but actually No”, which is not the intention here. • “also” is an adverb and does not function as a conjunction between two alternatives.

Common Pitfalls:
Because “Yes and No” is sometimes used informally to express mixed feelings, some students may be tempted to overthink the sentence and pick “and”. However, the key clues are “binary” and “nothing in between”, which clearly point to two mutually exclusive options. In exam settings, whenever you see two simple alternatives for a test, survey or checklist, the correct structure is almost always “Yes or No”. Remembering this fixed phrase will help you answer such questions quickly and confidently.

Final Answer:
The correct conjunction is or, giving the standard phrase “a binary ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’”.