Paint the surface

[najeeb775]

４． In order to evenly and effectively paint a rough surface, it is necessary to sand it and apply primer before applying the paint.
(A) it and apply primer before applying the paint
(B) it and prime it and paint it
(C) it, then prime it, then paint it
(D) the surface and apply primer before you
apply paint to the surface
(E) the surface, apply primer to the surface and then paint it

OA A

[boazkhan]

IMO A. If that is correct I will try to explain my reasoning.

[Frankenstein]

４． In order to evenly and effectively paint a rough surface, it is necessary to sand it and apply primer before applying the paint.
(A) it and apply primer before applying the paint
(B) it and prime it and paint it
(C) it, then prime it, then paint it
(D) the surface and apply primer before you
apply paint to the surface
(E) the surface, apply primer to the surface and then paint it

OA after some discussion, please comment on what the 'it' in the options refer to? Rough surface or the paint? confused

Hi,
there is only one noun(surface) that 'it' can refer to. 'paint' is used as a verb(not noun) in this sentence.
B has two 'and's
C has a list without any 'and'
D is too wordy and 'you' is unnecessary
E is wordy as well
So, it should be A