decided is the action verb because the subject, I is doing the action of deciding.
C. Both of these
A signal statement tells people that something important is coming so the listener or reader needs to pay close attention. The statement "keep in mind" signals to the reader that what comes next could be an important factor. The second statement "I want you to understand..." also signals to the reader or listener that what will follow is important for the reader to pay attention to.
Answer:
I believe they stop counting.
Explanation:
If the winner has already been determined, there is no need to waste time and energy counting.
Hope I helped!