Introduction / Context:
The focus here is the correct non-finite form after a preposition. After “after”, we typically use a gerund/gerund-participial form (“working”), not a past participle by itself (“worked”) unless it forms part of a reduced clause with “having worked”.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Preposition: “after”.
- Verb form used: “worked”.
- Intended meaning: duration of employment prior to the current evaluation.
Concept / Approach:
- Correct patterns: “after working …” or “after having worked …”.
- Therefore, Segment A must change to “Even after working in the office …”.
- The adverbial intensifier “as many as fifteen years” is acceptable emphasis.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the preposition and its complement.Replace bare past participle with gerund-participial form: “working”.Re-read: “Even after working in the office for as many as fifteen years, …”.
Verification / Alternative check:
Alternate reduction: “Even after having worked in the office for fifteen years, …” also correct.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
B–D are grammatical once A is corrected; the contrast “still does not understand” is idiomatic.E: Not applicable because A contains the error.
Common Pitfalls:
Using past participles directly after prepositions instead of gerunds.
Final Answer:
Even after worked in the office
Discussion & Comments