First option in SC always conveys the intended meaning?

[sehejbindra]

In SC questions, does the correct option absolutely HAVE to convey the intended meaning of the first option (main question)? Let's say there are two options that have correct grammar, however differ in meaning. Do we choose the option that reflects intended meaning of the first choice? Or the one that makes more sense logically?

Example:

Whitman’s printing assignments led to his journalistic activities, and Whitman, until the age of 31, held a number of positions as a reporter, editorial writer, and editor in New York newspapers

A. Whitman’s printing assignments led to his journalistic activities, and Whitman, until the age of 31, held

B. Whitman’s printing assignments led to his journalistic activities until the age of 31, and he held

C. Whitman’s printing assignments led to his journalistic activities, leading to Whitman, until the age of 31, holding

D. Whitman’s printing assignments until the age of 31 led to his journalistic activities, and Whitman held

E. Because Whitman’s printing assignments led to his journalistic activities, Whitman, until the age of 31, held


A and E are both grammatically correct. Option E poses a cause and effect between both the clauses which makes sense in the context of the sentence. Which would be the correct answer?

[RonPurewal]

there's only one intended meaning -- which should be clear from context, regardless of whether the original is right or wrong. (remember, 80% of the original sentences are wrong.)

as per the forum rules, you need to post a citation of the original source of this problem before we can discuss it.
(honestly, this problem is pretty badly written; none of the choices is a well-written sentence.)