Mastering SAT Grammar Rules: A thorough look
The SAT Writing and Language Test evaluates your ability to identify and correct errors in standard English conventions. This section focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and word choice. To excel, you must understand the core grammar rules tested and learn to spot common mistakes. Below, we break down the essential rules, provide examples, and share strategies to master them.
Key Grammar Rules for the SAT
1. Subject-Verb Agreement
Subjects and verbs must agree in number. Singular subjects take singular verbs; plural subjects take plural verbs Small thing, real impact..
- Example of error:
The list of items are on the table. (Incorrect: "list" is singular, but the verb is plural.) - Corrected:
The list of items is on the table.
Tip: Ignore intervening phrases (e.g., "of items") when determining subject-verb agreement Worth keeping that in mind..
2. Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement
Pronouns must match their antecedents in number and gender.
- Example of error:
Each student must bring their own book. (Incorrect: "each" is singular, but "their" is plural.) - Corrected:
Each student must bring his or her own book.
Note: The SAT often uses gender-neutral language, but traditional agreement rules still apply.
3. Comma Usage in Compound Sentences
Use a comma before coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) to join independent clauses.
- Example of error:
I studied for the test and passed it. (Correct, but adding a comma improves clarity.) - Improved:
I studied for the test, and I passed it.
Avoid comma splices:
- Incorrect: She loves reading, she also enjoys hiking.
- Correct: She loves reading; she also enjoys hiking.
4. Semicolons and Colons
- Semicolons separate independent clauses without a conjunction or join clauses with a transitional phrase.
- Example: The exam was difficult; however, I studied hard.
- Colons introduce lists, explanations, or quotes.
- Example: My favorite books include: 1984, To Kill a Mockingbird, and The Great Gatsby.
