SAT Prep

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:42:49 GMT

Current revision posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:42:49 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:41:52 GMT

Revision 18 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:41:52 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:40:13 GMT

Revision 17 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:40:13 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:39:19 GMT

Revision 16 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:39:19 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:38:38 GMT

Revision 15 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:38:38 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Huh?

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:38:09 GMT

Revision 14 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:38:09 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural Huh?

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:36:57 GMT

Revision 13 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:36:57 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:36:21 GMT

Revision 12 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:36:21 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:35:39 GMT

Revision 11 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:35:39 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:38:43 GMT

Revision 10 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:38:43 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:12:34 GMT

Revision 9 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:12:34 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

(back to top)

Noun Agreement

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:55:41 GMT

Revision 8 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 4:55:41 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun "a model" needs to be changed to the plural form, "models."

Correct:

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America's Next Top Model.'"

Noun Agreement

ian — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:28:35 GMT

Revision 7 posted to SAT Prep by ian on 10/12/2009 8:28:35 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Make it Plural

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

1) Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect:“Prince

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America’s 's Next Top Model.'”"

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun “a "a model” " needs to be changed to the plural form, “models.” "models."

Correct:“Prince

"Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show 'America’s 's Next Top Model.”'"

Noun Agreement

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:14:47 GMT

Revision 6 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 3:14:47 PM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect: “Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show 'America’s Next Top Model.'”

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun “a model” needs to be changed to the plural form, “models.”

Correct: “Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show America’s Next Top Model.”

Noun Agreement

Bill Huston — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:25:27 GMT

Revision 5 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 4/30/2009 10:25:27 AM

Noun Agreement

Filed under: SAT, writing, noun agreement

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect: “Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show America’s Next Top Model.”

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun “a model” needs to be changed to the plural form, “models.”

Correct: “Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show America’s Next Top Model.”

Noun Agreement

Bill Huston — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:25:27 GMT

Revision 4 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 4/30/2009 10:25:27 AM

Noun Agreement

Description:

Noun Agreement questions ask you to make sure that the nouns in a sentence represent the right number, plural vs. singular.

Approach:

Look for singular vs. plural issues and make sure that all nouns match the other nouns to which they refer.

Make it Plural

Noun Agreement problems are almost always caused by the use of a singular noun where there should be a plural noun.

Incorrect: “Prince and Julie were inspired to become a model after watching the T.V. show America’s Next Top Model.”

We have two people here: Prince and Julie. Therefore, the singular noun “a model” needs to be changed to the plural form, “models.”

Correct: “Prince and Julie were inspired to become models after watching the T.V. show America’s Next Top Model.”

Comparisons

Josh — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:41:00 GMT

Current revision posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 3/10/2010 2:41:00 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Table of Contents

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 23:08:07 GMT

Revision 20 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 3/8/2010 6:08:07 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Table of Contents

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

[View:http://www.youtube.com/user/MindFishVideos?feature=mhw4#p/a/u/0/2E2e9D0LRE0:550:0]

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 23:01:53 GMT

Revision 19 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 3/8/2010 6:01:53 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Table of Contents

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice <object height="344" width="425" style="height: 344px; width: 425px;"> </object>

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

[View:http://www.youtube.com/user/MindFishVideos?feature=mhw4#p/a/u/0/2E2e9D0LRE0:550:0]

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 22:41:18 GMT

Revision 18 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 3/8/2010 5:41:18 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice <object height="344" width="425" style="height: 344px; width: 425px;" width="425" height="344"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2E2e9D0LRE0" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2E2e9D0LRE0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed> "> </object>

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 22:40:45 GMT

Revision 17 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 3/8/2010 5:40:45 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 22:36:46 GMT

Revision 16 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 3/8/2010 5:36:46 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

[View:http://www.mindfish.com/themes/hawaii/utility/ <object style="height: 344px; width: 425px;" width="425" height="344"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/QmlAI0OSl2I" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/QmlAI0OSl2I" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed> </object> :550:0]

1) Practice

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 22:36:06 GMT

Revision 15 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 3/8/2010 5:36:06 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

[View:http://www.mindfish.com/themes/hawaii/utility/ <object style="height: 344px; width: 425px;" width="425" height="344"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/QmlAI0OSl2I" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/QmlAI0OSl2I" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed> </object> :550:0]

1) Practice

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:47:37 GMT

Revision 14 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:47:37 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:45:47 GMT

Revision 13 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:45:47 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

(back to top)

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

(back to top)

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:56:06 GMT

Revision 12 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 4:56:06 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word "than" or "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the "than" or "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice

For example, what's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

2) Practice

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
Enrico Fermi's name
less well known
the recent
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

Comparisons

ian — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:29:22 GMT

Revision 11 posted to SAT Prep by ian on 10/12/2009 8:29:22 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Practice
Practice

Description:

Comparison question questions ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

Look for the word “than” "than" or “as.” "as." These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.
2.
Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the “than” "than" or “as”) "as") are phrased in the same way.

1) Practice

For example, what’s 's wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

2) Practice:

Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi’s 's name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

he
B)
Enrico Fermi's name
C)
less well known
D)
the recent
E)
NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:39:11 GMT

Revision 10 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 2:39:11 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison question ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

1. Look for the word “than” or “as.” These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.

2. Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the “than” or “as”) are phrased in the same way.

For example, what’s wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

Practice: Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is a very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi’s name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

A) he

B) Enrico Fermi's name

C) less well known

D) the recent

E) NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:37:01 GMT

Revision 9 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 2:37:01 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison question ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

1. Look for the word “than” or “as.” These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.

2. Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the “than” or “as”) are phrased in the same way.

For example, what’s wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song ("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

Practice: Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi’s name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

A) he

B) Enrico Fermi's name

C) less well known

D) the recent

E) NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:35:17 GMT

Revision 8 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 2:35:17 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison question ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The things being compared must be similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

1. Look for the word “than” or “as.” These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.

2. Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the “than” or “as”) are phrased in the same way.

For example, what’s wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

Practice: Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi’s name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

A) he

B) Enrico Fermi's name

C) less well known

D) the recent

E) NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:32:58 GMT

Revision 7 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 2:32:58 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison question ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The people or things being compared must be constructed similar to each other (in real life) and should be phrased in the same way.

Approach

1. Look for the word “than” or “as.” These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.

2. Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the “than” or “as”) are phrased in the same way.

For example, what’s wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. We can't compare a type of composing ("composing a pop song") to a type of song("rock opera"). This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities...two types of composing.

Practice: Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi’s name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

A) he

B) Enrico Fermi's name

C) less well known

D) the recent

E) NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

Comparisons

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:29:01 GMT

Revision 6 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 2:29:01 PM

Comparisons

Filed under: SAT, writing, comparisons

Description:

Comparison question ask you to set up a proper comparison between two or more things. The people or things being compared must be constructed and phrased in the same way.

Approach

1. Look for the word “than” or “as.” These words often signal that two things or concepts are being compared.

2. Make sure that the two things or ideas in the comparison (ie. both sides of the “than” or “as”) are phrased in the same way.

For example, what’s wrong with the following sentence?

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than a rock opera.

You guessed it. This sentence should say:

Most musicians agree that composing a pop song is easier than composing a rock opera.

In this form, the sentence compares two similar activities.activities...two types of composing.

Practice: Which underlined part of the following sentence makes an incorrect comparison?

Even though he is very influential physicist, Enrico Fermi’s name is less well known than the winner of the recent Daytona 500.

A) he

B) Enrico Fermi's name

C) less well known

D) the recent

E) NO ERROR

What are we comparing in this sentence? "Enrico Fermi's name" vs. "the winner of the recent Daytona 500."

Is this a proper comparison? How can we change it to make it work?

Prepositions

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:38:00 GMT

Current revision posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:38:00 PM

Prepositions

Filed under: SAT, writing, prepositions

Description:

Prepositions are words such as "for," "of," "from," "through," and "by." Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the "normal" way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

1) Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

You probably noticed that we can't say "talked at." The sentence should read: "The principal talked to me for most of ninth period."

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

This one is a little tricker. Which is the proper phrase, "conscious of" or "conscious about?"
"Conscious of" is the correct choice.

(back to top)

2) Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about... (ie. "Determine about the water quality...")	determine... (ie. "Determine the water quality...")
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either... and... (ie. "You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.")	Either... or... (ie. "You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.")
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer... more than... (ie. "I prefer Ford more than Chevy.")	Prefer... to... (ie. "I prefer Ford to Chevy.")
Protested over (ie. "The students protested over the tution increase.")	Protested (ie. "The students protested the tution increase.")
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

(back to top)

Prepositions

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:36:44 GMT

Revision 8 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:36:44 PM

Prepositions

Filed under: SAT, writing, prepositions

Description:

Prepositions are words such as "for," "of," "from," "through," and "by." Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the "normal" way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

1) Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

You probably noticed that we can't say "talked at." The sentence should read: "The principal talked to me for most of ninth period."

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

This one is a little tricker. Which is the proper phrase, "conscious of" or "conscious about?"
"Conscious of" is the correct choice.

(back to top)

2) Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about... (ie. "Determine about the water quality...")	determine... (ie. "Determine the water quality...")
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either... and... (ie. "You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.")	Either... or... (ie. "You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.")
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer... more than... (ie. "I prefer Ford more than Chevy.")	Prefer... to... (ie. "I prefer Ford to Chevy.")
Protested over (ie. "The students protested over the tution increase.")	Protested (ie. "The students protested the tution increase.")
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

(back to top)

Prepositions

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:24:22 GMT

Revision 7 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:24:22 PM

Prepositions

Filed under: SAT, writing, prepositions

Description:

Prepositions are words such as "for," "of," "from," "through," and "by." Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the "normal" way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

1) Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

You probably noticed that we can't say "talked at." The sentence should read: "The principal talked to me for most of ninth period."

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

This one is a little tricker. Which is the proper phrase, "conscious of" or "conscious about?"
"Conscious of" is the correct choice.

(back to top)

2) Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about... (ie. "Determine about the water quality...")	determine... (ie. "Determine the water quality...")
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either... and... (ie. "You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.")	Either... or... (ie. "You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.")
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer... more than... (ie. "I prefer Ford more than Chevy.")	Prefer... to... (ie. "I prefer Ford to Chevy.")
Protested over (ie. "The students protested over the tution increase.")	Protested (ie. "The students protested the tution increase.")
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

(back to top)

Prepositions

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:55:04 GMT

Revision 6 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 4:55:04 PM

Prepositions

Filed under: SAT, writing, prepositions

Description:

Prepositions are words such as "for," "of," "from," "through," and "by." Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the "normal" way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

1) Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

You probably noticed that we can't say "talked at." The sentence should read: "The principal talked to me for most of ninth period."

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

This one is a little tricker. Which is the proper phrase, "conscious of" or "conscious about?"
"Conscious of" is the correct choice.

2) Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about... (ie. "Determine about the water quality...")	determine... (ie. "Determine the water quality...")
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either... and... (ie. "You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.")	Either... or... (ie. "You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.")
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer... more than... (ie. "I prefer Ford more than Chevy.")	Prefer... to... (ie. "I prefer Ford to Chevy.")
Protested over (ie. "The students protested over the tution increase.")	Protested (ie. "The students protested the tution increase.")
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

Prepositions

ian — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:27:55 GMT

Revision 5 posted to SAT Prep by ian on 10/12/2009 8:27:55 PM

Prepositions

Filed under: SAT, writing, prepositions

Spot the wrongly used prepositions
Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

Description:

Prepositions are words such as "for," "of," "from," "through," and "by." Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the “normal” "normal" way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

1) Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

You probably noticed that we can't say "talked at." The sentence should read: "The principal talked to me for most of ninth period."

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

This one is a little tricker. Which is the proper phrase, "conscious of" or "conscious about?"
"Conscious of" is the correct choice.

2) Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about… about... (ie. “Determine "Determine about the water quality…”)	determine… quality...")	determine... (ie. “Determine "Determine the water quality…”)quality...")
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either…and…
Either... and... (ie. “You "You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.”)	Either…or… ")	Either... or... (ie. “You "You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.”)")
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer…more than…
Prefer... more than... (ie. “I "I prefer Ford more than Chevy.”)	Prefer…to… ")	Prefer... to... (ie. “I "I prefer Ford to Chevy.”)")
Protested over (ie. “The "The students protested over the tution increase.”)")	Protested (ie. “The "The students protested the tution increase.”)")
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

Prepositions

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:54:06 GMT

Revision 4 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 3:54:06 PM

Prepositions

Filed under: SAT, writing, prepositions

Description:

Prepositions are words such as "for," "of," "from," "through," and "by." Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the “normal” way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

You probably noticed that we can't say "talked at." The sentence should read: "The principal talked to me for most of ninth period."

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

This one is a little tricker. Which is the proper phrase, "conscious of" or "conscious about?"
"Conscious of" is the correct choice.

Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about… (ie. “Determine about the water quality…”)	determine… (ie. “Determine the water quality…”)
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either…and… (ie. “You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.”)	Either…or… (ie. “You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.”)
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer…more than… (ie. “I prefer Ford more than Chevy.”)	Prefer…to… (ie. “I prefer Ford to Chevy.”)
Protested over (ie. “The students protested over the tution increase.”)	Protested (ie. “The students protested the tution increase.”)
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

Prepositions

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:51:13 GMT

Revision 3 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 3:51:13 PM

Prepositions

Filed under: SAT, writing, prepositions

Description:

Prepositions are words such as for, of, from, through, "for," "of," "from," "through," and by. "by." Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the “normal” way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

You probably noticed that we can't say "talked at." The sentence should read: "The principal talked to me for most of ninth period."

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

This one is a little tricker. Which is the proper phrase, "conscious of" or "conscious about?"
"Conscious of" is the correct choice.

Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about… (ie. “Determine about the water quality…”)	determine… (ie. “Determine the water quality…”)
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either…and… (ie. “You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.”)	Either…or… (ie. “You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.”)
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer…more than… (ie. “I prefer Ford more than Chevy.”)	Prefer…to… (ie. “I prefer Ford to Chevy.”)
Protested over (ie. “The students protested over the tution increase.”)	Protested (ie. “The students protested the tution increase.”)
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

Prepositions

Bill Huston — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 06:56:36 GMT

Revision 2 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 4/29/2009 2:56:36 AM

Prepositions

Filed under: SAT, writing, prepositions

Description:

Prepositions are words such as for, of, from, through, and by. Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the “normal” way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about… (ie. “Determine about the water quality…”)	determine… (ie. “Determine the water quality…”)
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either…and… (ie. “You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.”)	Either…or… (ie. “You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.”)
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer…more than… (ie. “I prefer Ford more than Chevy.”)	Prefer…to… (ie. “I prefer Ford to Chevy.”)
Protested over (ie. “The students protested over the tution increase.”)	Protested (ie. “The students protested the tution increase.”)
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

Prepositions

Bill Huston — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 06:56:36 GMT

Revision 1 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 4/29/2009 2:56:36 AM

Description:

Prepositions are words such as for, of, from, through, and by. Preposition questions can be difficult because they rely primarily on common usage and sound.

Approach

If you notice that a preposition is underlined in a grammar question, make sure it is used in the “normal” way. Trust your ear to make sure the idioms work!

Spot the wrongly used prepositions in the following sentences:

The principal of the school talked at me for most of ninth period.

Although many people are conscious of the prevalence of poverty in the world, much of the population is not conscious about current attempts to address the problem.

Common Idiomatic Phrases with Prepositions

WRONG EXPRESSION	CORRECT EXPRESSION
preoccupied in	preoccupied with
occupied to	occupied with
determine about… (ie. “Determine about the water quality…”)	determine… (ie. “Determine the water quality…”)
think of it that	think of it as
Contrasting with	In contrast to
Either…and… (ie. “You must choose either chocolate and vanilla.”)	Either…or… (ie. “You must choose either chocolate or vanilla.”)
Necessary in	"Necessary to" or "Necessary for"
Regarded to be	Regarded as
Prefer…more than… (ie. “I prefer Ford more than Chevy.”)	Prefer…to… (ie. “I prefer Ford to Chevy.”)
Protested over (ie. “The students protested over the tution increase.”)	Protested (ie. “The students protested the tution increase.”)
Consistent / Inconsistent to	Consistent / Inconsistent with
Listen at	Listen to
In a place that	In a place where
Similar with	Similar to

Conjunctions

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:35:55 GMT

Current revision posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:35:55 PM

Conjunctions

Filed under: SAT, writing, conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as "but," "and," "because," and "however."

Approach:

First of all, look for conjunctions (and, but, because, therefore, however, etc.) in the sentence. Then, make sure that there are not too many conjunctions in the sentence and that the conjunction used is the correct one. Also, look for run-on sentences that consist of two independent clauses connected with a comma. You will often need to add a conjunction to these sentences to make them correct.

1) Too many conjunctions

Incorrect:

Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

In this sentence, we don't need "since" and "therefore."

Correct:

Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

(back to top)

2) Wrong conjunction

Incorrect:

Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

In this case, "although" should be "since" or "because."

Correct:

Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

(back to top)

3) Run-on sentence

Incorrect:

Yesterday I went running, I also went out to eat.

We need a conjunction between these two clauses in order to have complete sentence.

Correct:

Yesterday I went running, and I also went out to eat.

(back to top)

Conjunctions

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:23:49 GMT

Revision 11 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:23:49 PM

Conjunctions

Filed under: SAT, writing, conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as "but," "and," "because," and "however."

Approach:

1) Too many conjunctions

Incorrect:

Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

In this sentence, we don't need "since" and "therefore."

Correct:

Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

(back to top)

2) Wrong conjunction

Incorrect:

Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

In this case, "although" should be "since" or "because."

Correct:

Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

(back to top)

3) Run-on sentence

Incorrect:

Yesterday I went running, I also went out to eat.

We need a conjunction between these two clauses in order to have complete sentence.

Correct:

Yesterday I went running, and I also went out to eat.

(back to top)

Conjunctions

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:23:25 GMT

Revision 10 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:23:25 PM

Conjunctions

Filed under: SAT, writing, conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as "but," "and," "because," and "however."

Approach:

1) Too many conjunctions

Incorrect:

Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

In this sentence, we don't need "since" and "therefore."

Correct:

Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

(back to top)

2) Wrong conjunction

Incorrect:

Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

In this case, "although" should be "since" or "because."

Correct:

Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

(back to top)

3) Run-on sentence

Incorrect:

Yesterday I went running, I also went out to eat.

We need a conjunction between these two clauses in order to have complete sentence.

Correct:

Yesterday I went running, and I also went out to eat.

Conjunctions

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:54:37 GMT

Revision 9 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 4:54:37 PM

Conjunctions

Filed under: SAT, writing, conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as "but," "and," "because," and "however."

Approach:

1) Too many conjunctions

Incorrect:

Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

In this sentence, we don't need "since" and "therefore."

Correct:

Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

2) Wrong conjunction

Incorrect:

Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

In this case, "although" should be "since" or "because."

Correct:

Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

3) Run-on sentence

Incorrect:

Yesterday I went running, I also went out to eat.

We need a conjunction between these two clauses in order to have complete sentence.

Correct:

Yesterday I went running, and I also went out to eat.

Conjunctions

ian — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:27:05 GMT

Revision 8 posted to SAT Prep by ian on 10/12/2009 8:27:05 PM

Conjunctions

Filed under: SAT, writing, conjunctions

Too many conjunctions
Wrong conjunction
Run-on sentence

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as "but," "and," "because," and "however."

Approach:

1) Too many conjunctions

Incorrect:

Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night. -

In this sentence, we don’t 't need “since” "since" and “therefore."therefore."

Correct:

Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

2) Wrong conjunction

Incorrect:

Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

In this case, “although” "although" should be “since” "since" or “because.”"because."

Correct:

Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

Run-On Sentence

3) Run-on sentence

Incorrect:

Yesterday I went running, I also went out to eat.

We need a conjunction between these two clauses in order to have complete sentence.

Correct:

Yesterday I went running, and I also went out to eat.

Conjunctions

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:49:50 GMT

Revision 7 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 2:49:50 PM

Conjunctions

Filed under: SAT, writing, conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as "but," "and," "because," and "however."

Approach:

Too many conjunctions

Incorrect: Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

-In this sentence, we don’t need “since” and “therefore.

Correct: Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

Wrong conjunction

Incorrect: Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

-In this case, “although” should be “since” or “because.”

Correct: Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

Run-On Sentence

Incorrect: Yesterday I went running, I also went out to eat.

-We need a conjunction between these two clauses in order to have complete sentence.

Correct: Yesterday I went running, and I also went out to eat.

Conjunctions

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:48:34 GMT

Revision 6 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 2:48:34 PM

Conjunctions

Filed under: SAT, writing, conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as but, and, because, "but," "and," "because," and however."however."

Approach:

Too many conjunctions

Incorrect: Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

-In this sentence, we don’t need “since” and “therefore.” “therefore.

Correct: Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

Wrong conjunction

Incorrect: Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

-In this case, “although” should be “since” or “because.”

Correct: Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

Run-On Sentence

Incorrect: Yesterday I went running, I also went out to eat.

-We need a conjunction between these two clauses in order to have complete sentence.

Correct: Yesterday I went running, and I also went out to eat.

Conjunctions

Josh — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:20:31 GMT

Revision 5 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 4/29/2009 10:20:31 AM

Conjunctions

Filed under: SAT, writing, conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as but, and, because, and however.

Approach:

Too many conjunctions

Incorrect: Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

-In this sentence, we don’t need “since” and “therefore.”

Correct: Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

Wrong conjunction

Incorrect: Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

-In this case, “although” should be “since” or “because.”

Correct: Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

Conjunctions

Josh — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:20:31 GMT

Revision 4 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 4/29/2009 10:20:31 AM

Conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as but, and, because, and however.

Approach:

Too many conjunctions

Incorrect: Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

-In this sentence, we don’t need “since” and “therefore.”

Correct: Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

Wrong conjunction

Incorrect: Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

-In this case, “although” should be “since” or “because.”

Correct: Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

One Item
Two Item
- Sub Item One
- Sub Item Two
Three Item

Conjunctions

Josh — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:19:52 GMT

Revision 3 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 4/29/2009 10:19:52 AM

Conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as but, and, because, and however.

Approach:

Too many conjunctions

Incorrect: Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

-In this sentence, we don’t need “since” and “therefore.”

Correct: Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

Wrong conjunction

Incorrect: Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

-In this case, “although” should be “since” or “because.”

Correct: Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

One Item
Two Item
- Sub Item One
- Sub Item Two
Three Item

Conjunctions

Josh — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:17:13 GMT

Revision 2 posted to SAT Prep by Josh on 4/29/2009 10:17:13 AM

Conjunctions

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as but, and, because, and however.

Approach:

Too many conjunctions

Incorrect: Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

-In this sentence, we don’t need “since” and “therefore.”

Correct: Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

Wrong conjunction

Incorrect: Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

-In this case, “although” should be “since” or “because.”

Correct: Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

One Item
Two Item
- Sub Item One
- Sub Item Two
Three Item

Conjunctions

Bill Huston — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 06:55:39 GMT

Revision 1 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 4/29/2009 2:55:39 AM

Description:

Conjunctions are words such as but, and, because, and however.

Approach:

Too many conjunctions

Incorrect: Since I spent all of my allowance, therefore I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

-In this sentence, we don’t need “since” and “therefore.”

Correct: Since I spent all of my allowance, I had no money left to go out on Friday night.

Wrong conjunction

Incorrect: Although I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

-In this case, “although” should be “since” or “because.”

Correct: Because I was very hungry, I ate the pasta greedily.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:35:12 GMT

Current revision posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:35:12 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

(back to top)

2) Appositives

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

To test whether an appositive works, remove the information between the commas. If the sentence still means that same thing and is grammatically correct without the appositive, the appositive has probably been used correctly.

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

(back to top)

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

(back to top)

4) Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

(back to top)

5) Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

(back to top)

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:10:16 GMT

Revision 16 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:10:16 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas

(back to top)

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

(back to top)

2) Appositives

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

(back to top)

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

(back to top)

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

(back to top)

4) Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

(back to top)

5) Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

(back to top)

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:07:40 GMT

Revision 15 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:07:40 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas

(back to top)

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

(back to top)

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

(back to top)

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

(back to top)

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

(back to top)

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:07:01 GMT

Revision 14 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:07:01 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

(back to top)

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

(back to top)

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

(back to top)

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

(back to top)

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:05:26 GMT

Revision 13 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:05:26 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas <h8>(back

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:04:21 GMT

Revision 12 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:04:21 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas Back <h8>(back to top)</h8>

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:03:11 GMT

Revision 11 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:03:11 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas Back to top

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:53:46 GMT

Revision 10 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 4:53:46 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

ian — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:25:05 GMT

Revision 9 posted to SAT Prep by ian on 10/12/2009 8:25:05 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Commas
Appositives
Quick Comma Rules
Semi-colons
Colons

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comma splice, we can include a conjunction ("and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

For example:

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

ian — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:23:28 GMT

Revision 8 posted to SAT Prep by ian on 10/12/2009 8:23:28 PM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Commas
Appositives
Quick Comma Rules
Semi-colons
Colons

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.
2.
If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.
3.
Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

1) Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.
An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie.

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

INCORRECT

Incorrect:

I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.

This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comman comma splice, we can include a conjunction (and, but, however, "and," "but," "however," etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

CORRECT

Correct:

I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

CORRECT

Correct:

I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

2) Appositives

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.

In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

To test whether an appositive works, remove the information between the commas. If the sentence still makes sense means that same thing and is grammatically correct without this informationthe appositive, the appositive has probably been used correctly.

For example, :

"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

3) Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

1.

Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

2.

Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

4) Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

CORRECT

Correct:

I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

5) Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

CORRECT

Correct:

Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

CORRECT

Correct:

His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:39:07 GMT
Revision 7 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/16/2009 9:39:07 AM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

1. Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.

2. If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.

3. Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.

An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie
Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

INCORRECT: I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.
This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comman splice, we can include a conjunction (and, but, however, etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

CORRECT: I went to the store and I picked up Chris at school.

CORRECT: I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.
In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

To test whether an appositive works, remove the information between the commas. If the sentence still makes sense without this information, the appositive has probably been used correctly.

For example,
"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."
Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

1. Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

2. Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

CORRECT: I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

CORRECT: Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

CORRECT: His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:33:15 GMT
Revision 6 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/16/2009 9:33:15 AM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

1. Check to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice.

2. If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.

3. Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.

An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:

Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

INCORRECT: I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.
This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comman splice, we can include a conjunction (and, but, however, etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

CORRECT: I went to the store and I picked up Chris at school.

CORRECT: I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.

An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.
In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

To test whether an appositive works, remove the information between the commas. If the sentence still makes sense without this information, the appositive has probably been used correctly.

For example,
"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."
Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

1. Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

2. Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

CORRECT: I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

CORRECT: Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

CORRECT: His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:29:41 GMT
Revision 5 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/16/2009 9:29:41 AM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

1. Check all commas to make sure the sentence does not form a comma spliceand that appositives correctly punctuated.

2. If a sentence has two commas, remove the info between the commas to test for an incorrect appositive.

3. Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

A dependent clause is an incomplete thought that cannot stand on its own.

An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Here's an example of a proper use of a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause:
Since I had to go to bed early, I decided not go to the movie

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

BAD…

INCORRECT: I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.
This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comman splice, we can include a conjunction (and, but, however, etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

GOOD…

CORRECT: I went to the store and I picked up Chris at school.

GOOD…

CORRECT: I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.
An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.
In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

To test whether an appositive works, remove the information between the commas. If the sentence still makes sense without this information, the appositive has probably been used correctly.

For example,
"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

Quick Comma Rules (that are almost always right):

1. Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

2. Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

Correct

CORRECT: I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct

CORRECT: Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct

CORRECT: His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:29:00 GMT
Revision 4 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/16/2009 9:29:00 AM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

1. Check all commas to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice and that appositives correctly punctuated.

2. Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause. An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run on run-on sentence called a comma splice.

BAD… I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.
This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comman splice, we can include a conjunction (and, but, however, etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

GOOD… I went to the store and I picked up Chris at school.

GOOD… I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.
An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.
Test for
In this sentence, the appositive is "who had previously served on the city council".

To test whether an appositive by removing works, remove the information between the commas. If the sentence still makes sense without this information, the appositive has probably been used correctly.

For example,
"The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

Quick Comma Rules (that are right almostalways) always right):

1. Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

2. Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition ("on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

ie.

Correct: I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.

Correct: Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

Correct: His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:14:12 GMT
Revision 3 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/16/2009 9:14:12 AM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

1. Check all commas to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice and that appositives correctly punctuated.

2. Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause. An independent clause is a grammatically complete thought that could form a sentence on its own (independent!).

Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run on sentence called a comma splice.

BAD… I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.
This is a comma splice. Both of these ideas could be full sentences.

To a fix a comman splice, we can include a conjunction (and, but, however, etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.

GOOD… I went to the store , and I picked up Chris at school.

GOOD… I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.
An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.

ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.
Test for an appositive by removing the information between the commas. If the sentence still makes sense without this information, the appositive has probably been used correctly.

For example, "The mayor declared that the new ordinance was unwise."

Since this sentence holds up even without the appositive, the original sentence is probably well-constructed.

Quick Comma Rules (that are right almost always):

1. Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

2. Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition (on, of, from, for, through, "on," "of," "from," "for," "through," etc.).

Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.

Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.

ie. I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.
ie.

Correct: Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

ie.

Correct: His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Punctuation

Bill Huston — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 06:54:08 GMT
Revision 2 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 4/29/2009 2:54:08 AM

Punctuation

Filed under: SAT, writing, punctuation

Description:

Punctuation questions ask you to properly use commas, colons, semi-colons, and periods.

Approach:

1. Check all commas to make sure the sentence does not form a comma splice and that appositives correctly punctuated.

2. Make sure all semi-colons have independent clauses on both sides.

Commas

Commas separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.
Commas cannot separate two independent clauses because this construction creates a type of run on sentence called a comma splice.

BAD… I went to the store, I picked up Chris at school.
To a fix a comman splice, we can include a conjunction (and, but, however, etc.) or replace the comma with a semi-colon or a period.
GOOD… I went to the store, and I picked up Chris at school.

GOOD… I went to the store; I picked up Chris at school.
An appositive is a description of something that came right before it in the sentence. Appositives are always enclosed in two commas, one at the beginning of the appositive and one at the end.
ie. The mayor, who had previously served on the city council, declared that the new ordinance was unwise.
Test for an appositive by removing the information between the commas. If the sentence still makes sense without this information, the appositive has probably been used correctly.

Quick Comma Rules:

1. Commas should not come immediately before or after the main verb of the sentence.

2. Commas should not be placed immediately before or after a preposition (on, of, from, for, through, etc.).

Semi-colons

Treat semi-colons like periods.
Semi-colons separate two independent clauses. In other words, the clauses before a semi-colon and after a semi-colon can each form a complete sentence individually.
ie. I went to the store; later, I picked up Chris at school.

Colons

Colons introduce a list, an example, or a direct explanation.
ie. Only three things scare me: public speaking, failure, and mice.

ie. His reputation as a thief is obvious: last week he robbed a liquor store.

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:33:21 GMT
Current revision posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:33:21 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Table of Contents

Pronoun Case

Common subject and object pronouns

Who vs. Whom

I vs. Me

Tip: Pronouns and Prepositions

Practice: Choose correct pronoun

Pronoun Number

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," "it," are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:

The case of the pronoun (subjective vs. objective) must be correct.

The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun it represents.

The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

1) Pronoun Case

'Case' describes how a pronoun functions. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can appear in either the subjective or objective case. Here's the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.

He went to the store.
(He = subject)

We sat down to the dinner table a little late.
(We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.

The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
(her = object; subject = ______________)

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
(me = object; subject = ______________)

(back to top)

2) The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom

(back to top)

3) Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice.
If "he" works than "who" is the correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

(back to top)

4) I vs. Me

Choosing "I" or "me" can be hard if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.

(back to top)

5) TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

(back to top)

6) Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal's office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

(back to top)

7) Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, a pronoun must agree with its antecedent (the noun it represents) in terms of number.

Incorrect:

Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

What's wrong with this one?

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

(back to top)

8) Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Ambiguous pronouns are unclear; they could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect:

I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

What's wrong with this one?

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.

Who's 'they'?

(back to top)

9) Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

(back to top)

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:21:34 GMT
Revision 12 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 5:21:34 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Table of Contents

Pronoun Case

Common subject and object pronouns

Who vs. Whom

I vs. Me

Tip: Pronouns and Prepositions

Practice: Choose correct pronoun

Pronoun Number

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," "it," are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:

The case of the pronoun (subjective vs. objective) must be correct.

The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun it represents.

The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

1) Pronoun Case

'Case' describes how a pronoun functions. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can appear in either the subjective or objective case. Here's the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.

He went to the store.
(He = subject)

We sat down to the dinner table a little late.
(We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.

The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
(her = object; subject = ______________)

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
(me = object; subject = ______________)

(back to top)

2) The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom

(back to top)

3) Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice.
If "he" works than "who" is the correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

(back to top)

4) I vs. Me

Choosing "I" or "me" can be hard if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.

(back to top)

5) TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

(back to top)

6) Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal's office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

(back to top)

7) Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, a pronoun must agree with its antecedent (the noun it represents) in terms of number.

Incorrect:

Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

What's wrong with this one?

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

(back to top)

8) Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Ambiguous pronouns are unclear; they could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect:

I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

What's wrong with this one?

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.

Who's 'they'?

(back to top)

9) Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

(back to top)

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:53:15 GMT
Revision 11 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 1/15/2010 4:53:15 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Table of Contents

Pronoun Case

Common subject and object pronouns

Who vs. Whom

I vs. Me

Tip: Pronouns and Prepositions

Practice: Choose correct pronoun

Pronoun Number

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," "it," are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:

The case of the pronoun (subjective vs. objective) must be correct.

The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun it represents.

The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

1) Pronoun Case

'Case' describes how a pronoun functions. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can appear in either the subjective or objective case. Here's the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.

He went to the store.
(He = subject)

We sat down to the dinner table a little late.
(We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.

The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
(her = object; subject = ______________)

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
(me = object; subject = ______________)

2) The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom

3) Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice.
If "he" works than "who" is the correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

4) I vs. Me

Choosing "I" or "me" can be hard if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.

5) TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

6) Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal's office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

7) Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, a pronoun must agree with its antecedent (the noun it represents) in terms of number.

Incorrect:

Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

What's wrong with this one?

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

8) Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Ambiguous pronouns are unclear; they could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect:

I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

What's wrong with this one?

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.

Who's 'they'?

9) Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

Pronouns

ian — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:20:09 GMT
Revision 10 posted to SAT Prep by ian on 10/12/2009 8:20:09 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Table of Contents

Pronoun Case

Common subject and object pronouns

Who vs. Whom

I vs. Me

Tip: Pronouns and Prepositions

Practice: Choose correct pronoun

Pronoun Number

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," and "it" "it," are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:

1)

The case of the pronoun (subject subjective vs. objectobjective) must be the correctone

2) .

The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun it represents

3) .

The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

1) Pronoun Case

'Case' describes how a pronoun functions. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can appear in either the subjet of object subjective or objective case. Here’s 's the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.

He went to the store.
(He = subject)

We sat down to the dinner table a little late.
(We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.

The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
(her = object; subject = ___________________________)

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
(me = object; subject = ______________ _____________)

2) The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom

3) Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice.
If "he" works than "who" is the correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

4) I vs. Me

Choosing "I" or "me" can be hard if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.

5) TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

6) Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal’s 's office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

7) Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, a pronoun must agree with its antecedents antecedent (the noun it represents) in terms of number.

Incorrect:

Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

What's wrong with this one?

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

8) Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Ambiguous pronouns are unclear; they could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect:

I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

What's wrong with this one?

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.

Who’s they?'s 'they'?

9) Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:02:19 GMT
Revision 9 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/16/2009 9:02:19 AM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," and "it" are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:

1) The case of the pronoun (subject vs. object) must be the correct one

2) The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun it represents

3) The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

Pronoun Case

'Case' describes how a pronoun functions. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can appear in either the subjet of object case. Here’s the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.
He went to the store. (He = subject)
We sat down to the dinner table a little late. (We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.
The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
her = object; subject = ______________

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
me = object; subject = ______________

The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom

Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice. If "he" works than "who" is correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

I vs. Me

Choosing "I" or "me" can be hard if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.

TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal’s office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, a pronoun must agree with its antecedents (the noun it represents) in terms of number.

Incorrect: Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

What's wrong with this one?

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

Ambiguous pronouns are unclear; they could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect: I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

What's wrong with this one?

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.
Who’s they??

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:01:03 GMT
Revision 8 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/16/2009 9:01:03 AM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," and "it" are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:

1) The case of the pronoun (subject vs. object) must be the correct one

2) The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun it represents

3) The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

Pronoun Case

'Case' refers to describes how a category to which pronouns belongpronoun functions. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can be appear in either subject or the subjet of object pronounscase. Here’s the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.
He went to the store. (He = subject)
We sat down to the dinner table a little late. (We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.
The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
her = object; subject = ______________

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
me = object; subject = ______________

The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom

Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice. If "he" works than "who" is correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

I vs. Me

The difference between these choices is

Choosing "I" or "me" can be hard to hear if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.

TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal’s office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, pronouns a pronoun must agree with their its antecedents (the noun they representit represents) in terms of number.

Incorrect: Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

What's wrong with this one?

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

This heading refers to

Ambiguous pronouns that are unclear: pronouns that ; they could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect: I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

What's wrong with this one?

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.
Who’s they??

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:11:36 GMT
Revision 7 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 5:11:36 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," and "it" are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:

1) The case of the pronoun (subject vs. object) must be the correct one

2) The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun

3) The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

Pronoun Case

'Case' refers to a category to which pronouns belong. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can be either subject or object pronouns. Here’s the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.
He went to the store. (He = subject)
We sat down to the dinner table a little late. (We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.
The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
her = object; subject = ______________

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
me = object; subject = ______________

The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom

Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice. If "he" works than "who" is correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

I vs. Me

The difference between these choices is hard to hear if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.

TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal’s office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, pronouns must agree with their antecedents (the noun they represent) in terms of number.

Incorrect: Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

Try the next

What's wrong with this one?

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

This heading refers to pronouns that are unclear: pronouns that could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect: I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

Try the next

What's wrong with this one?

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.

Who’s they??

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN	PRONOUN
person, people	who, whom
things	that, which
places	where
time	when

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:06:41 GMT

Revision 6 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 5:06:41 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," and "it" are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:s ways:

1) The case of the pronoun (subject vs. object) must be the correct one

2) The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun

3) The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

Pronoun Case

'Case' refers to a category to which pronouns belong. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can be either subject or object pronouns. Here’s the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.
He went to the store. (He = subject)
We sat down to the dinner table a little late. (We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.
The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
her = object; subject = ______________

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
me = object; subject = ______________

The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT	OBJECT
I	me
you	you
he	him
she	her
we	us
they	them
who	whom

Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice. If "he" works than "who" is correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

I vs. Me

The difference between these choices is hard to hear if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice. TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal’s office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, pronouns must agree with their antecedents (the noun they represent) in terms of number.

Incorrect: Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

Try the next one

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

This heading refers to pronouns that are unclear: pronouns that could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect: I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

Try the next one

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.
Who’s they??

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:03:40 GMT
Revision 5 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 5:03:40 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," and "it" are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways:s

1) The case of the pronoun (subject vs. object) must be the correct one

2) The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun

3) The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

Pronoun Case

'Case' refers to a category to which pronouns belong. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can be either subject or object pronouns. Here’s the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.
He went to the store. (He = subject)
We sat down to the dinner table a little late. (We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.
The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
her = object; subject = ______________

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
me = object; subject = ______________

The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom

Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice. If "he" works than "who" is correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

I vs. Me

The difference between these choices is hard to hear if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice. TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal’s office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, pronouns must agree with their antecedents (the noun they represent) in terms of number.

Incorrect: Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

Try the next one

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

This heading refers to pronouns that are unclear: pronouns that could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect: I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

Try the next one

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.
Who’s they??

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:01:23 GMT
Revision 4 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 5:01:23 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. "He," "she," "we," "I," and "it" are all pronouns. Pronoun questions ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways. ways:s

1) The case of the pronoun (subject vs. object) must be the correct one

2) The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun

3) The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

Pronoun Case

'Case' refers to a category to which pronouns belong. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can be either subject of or object pronouns. Here’s the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.
He went to the store. (He = subject)
We sat down to the dinner table a little late. (We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.
The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
her = object; subject = ______________

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
me = object; subject = ______________

The most common subject and object pronouns

SUBJECT OBJECT I me you you he him she her we us they them who whom

Who vs. Whom

Replace "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" to determine the right choice. If "he" works than "who" is correct option; if "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

I vs. Me

The difference between these choices is hard to hear if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.
The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway. TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

The principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal’s office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.
<

Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, pronouns must agree with their antecedents (the noun they represent) in terms of number.

Incorrect: Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

Try the next one

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

This heading refers to pronouns that are unclear: pronouns that could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect: I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired!Who’s he?

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

Try the next one

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.
Who’s they??

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns "that" and "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when

Pronouns

Bill Huston — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 20:30:24 GMT
Revision 3 posted to SAT Prep by Bill Huston on 7/15/2009 4:30:24 PM

Pronouns

Filed under: SAT, writing, pronouns

Description:

Pronouns are short nouns used in place of other nouns. He, she, we, I, "He," "she," "we," "I," and it "it" are all pronouns. Pronoun questions will ask you to make sure that the pronoun used in the sentence is the correct one.

Approach:

All pronouns must match the nouns they represent in several ways.

1) The case of the pronoun (subject vs. object) must be the correct one, the

2) The number of the pronoun (singular vs. plural) must match the number of the noun, and the

3) The pronoun must clearly refer to only one noun.

Pronoun Case

'Case' refers to a technical category to which pronouns belong. As you might have learned (and possibly forgotten!) in foreign language classes, pronouns can be either subject of object pronouns. Here’s the difference:

Subject pronouns do the action of the sentence.
He went to the store. (He = subject)
We sat down to the dinner table a little late. (We = subject)

Object pronouns receive the action of a sentence.
The bike messenger delivered the letter to her on time.
her = object; subject = ______________

Mr. Robertson indicated that the phone call was for me.
me = object; subject = ______________

The most common subject and object pronouns SUBJECT OBJECT I me you you he him she her we us they them who whom

Who vs. Whom

Replace who "who" or whom "whom" with he "he" or him "him" to determine the right choice. If he "he" works than who "who" is correct option; if him "him" sounds right, pick "whom."

What should we do to the following sentence?

(Who, whom.) gave you permission?

Which sounds better:

Him gave you permission?

He gave you permission?

The option that uses "he" definitely sounds better, so our choice should be "who."

I vs. Me

The difference between these choices is hard to hear if there is another person mentioned in the sentence. Cover up the other person to determine which pronoun is better.

What should we do to the following sentence?

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

Which sounds better:

I made a speedy getaway.

Me made a speedy getaway.

The first option (with "I") sounds better, so "I" is the right choice.
The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.
TIP: If a pronoun comes after a preposition (to, of, from, for, etc.) it should always be an object pronoun.

Practice: Choose the correct pronoun in the following sentences.

The masked marauder and (I, me) made a speedy getaway.

(Who, whom) gave you permission?

The principle principal told Billy to follow Barney and (I, me) to the principal’s office.

It was unclear whether the documents were addressed to (he, him) or (I, me).

(We, Us) all want the best for all parties concerned.

SUBJECT OBJECT

I me

you you

he him

she her

we us

they them

who whom <
Pronoun Number

Just like subjects and verbs, pronouns must agree with their antecedents (the noun they represent) in terms of number.

Incorrect: Anyone who takes that job must be out of their mind!

("Anyone" is singular, so it doesn't match with "their." Instead of "their," we need to use the singular: "his," "her," or "his or her.")

Try the next one

I asked the journalist if the error was his fault and they replied that they were not to blame.

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference

This heading refers to pronouns that are unclear: pronouns that could refer to any one of a number of antecedents. The following sentences contain ambiguous pronouns:

Incorrect: I saw Davey and James yesterday and boy was he tired! Who’s he?

(The problem here is that we don't know who the "he" is: Davey or James? We need to mention one of them specifically.)

Try the next one

In that country, they have laws that prohibit littering.
Who’s they??

Animate vs. Inanimate Pronouns (otherwise known as People vs. Thing pronouns)

People cannot be paired with pronouns that describe things. They must be linked up with a pronoun pronouns describing people. Only inanimate objects (things) can use the pronouns that "that" and which. "which." Refer to the following chart:

TYPE OF NOUN PRONOUN

person, people who, whom

things that, which

places where

time when