Select the option that correctly completes the given sentence:

______ reviewing the quarterly performance report, the committee scheduled a follow-up meeting.

The correct answer is After.

Explanation:

To choose the correct word to complete the sentence, let us analyze the context and logical connection between the two actions described:

1. Action 1: Reviewing the quarterly performance report.
2. Action 2: Scheduling a follow-up meeting.

The preposition "After" is followed by a gerund (reviewing) to indicate that one action happened subsequent to the completion of another action. The sentence logically means that once the committee finished reviewing the report, they scheduled the follow-up meeting.

Why the other options are incorrect:

• Having finished: While "Having finished" can indicate prior action (e.g., "Having finished reviewing..."), placing it directly before "reviewing" creates redundant phrasing ("Having finished reviewing..." is not listed; option 1 is just "Having finished", which would make the sentence "Having finished reviewing..."—however, "After" is the simpler, standard, and direct choice provided).

• Although: This is a conjunction used to show contrast or concession (e.g., "Although it was raining..."). It does not fit the temporal sequence here.

• Whereas: This is a conjunction used to contrast two facts or statements. It does not grammatically or logically connect a gerund phrase to indicate time sequence.

Therefore, After is the correct preposition to complete the sentence meaningfully and grammatically.