Topic: Linkers or Connectors,

Best Answer Explained in Below-:

In the sentence, "He failed the test many times --- he did not stop trying," we are presented with two contrasting ideas. The first part conveys a sense of failure and discouragement: "He failed the test many times." The natural expectation that follows this statement is a sense of resignation or giving up. However, the second part, "he did not stop trying," introduces an unexpected turn of events where the individual demonstrates perseverance despite repeated failures.

The word "but" effectively highlights this contrast between failure and determination. It indicates that, despite the fact that he failed multiple times, he continued to exert effort and maintain a positive attitude towards his goal. The conjunction "but" is used to connect two clauses where the second clause contradicts or provides an alternative perspective to the first.

The other options do not fit well in this context. "So" suggests a cause-and-effect relationship that does not apply here as failing does not logically lead to continuing to try. "Although" would require a rephrasing of the sentence, making it less direct. Lastly, "as" implies a reason or explanation that does not fit the sentiment of resilience following failure. Thus, "but" is the most appropriate choice to convey the intended contrast.