PSAT Grammar Prep

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, separate items in a list, and clarify meaning.

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

A comma should be used before 'and' in a list of three or more items (Oxford comma) to clarify the separation of items.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence consists of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Front

Identify the correct punctuation for this sentence: 'I want to go to the park but it is raining.'

Back

The correct punctuation is: 'I want to go to the park, but it is raining.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

A comma should be placed after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a dependent clause?

Back

If the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, use a comma. If it follows, no comma is needed.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate this sentence: 'Although it was late we decided to continue.'

Back

The correct punctuation is: 'Although it was late, we decided to continue.'

Front

What is the function of a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon connects closely related independent clauses and can also separate items in a complex list.

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation that follows an independent clause.

Front

What is the difference between 'its' and 'it's'?

Back

'Its' is a possessive pronoun meaning 'belonging to it,' while 'it's' is a contraction for 'it is' or 'it has.'