Grammar, Punctuation, and Sentence Structure Conventions
Language questions test editing skills in context.
1. Subject-Verb Agreement
Singular subjects require singular verbs; plural subjects require plural verbs.
- Correct: The box of antique tools is in the garage. (Ignore prepositional phrases like "of antique tools").
2. Avoiding Run-ons and Comma Splices
A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined by only a comma.
- Incorrect: She studied all night, she passed the exam easily.
- Correction 1: She studied all night, and she passed the exam easily. (Comma + coordinating conjunction FANBOYS)
- Correction 2: She studied all night**;** she passed the exam easily. (Semicolon)
- Correction 3: She studied all night**.** She passed the exam easily. (Separate sentences)
3. Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement
A pronoun must match its antecedent in number and gender.
- Correct: Each student must bring their notebook to class.