Punctuation Structure

SAT Writing — Punctuation and Sentence Structure ## What Punctuation Questions Test SAT punctuation questions test whether you can correctly use punctuation marks to join, separate, or organize parts of a sentence. The most tested punctuation rules: ## 1. Semicolons A semicolon connects two independent clauses (two complete sentences). Both sides of the semicolon must be able to stand alone as sentences. > Correct: The experiment failed; the researchers had to start over. > Incorrect: The experiment failed; forcing the researchers to start over. > (The second part isn't an independent clause — it can't stand alone.) Memory trick: A semicolon = period in disguise. If you could put a period there and both sides would be complete sentences, a semicolon works. ## 2. Colons A colon introduces something — a list, an explanation, or an elaboration. The material before the colon must be an independent clause. > Correct: The chef needed three things: flour, eggs, and butter. > Correct: The conclusion was clear: the experiment had worked. > Incorrect: The chef needed: flour, eggs, and butter. > (The part before the colon can't stand alone as a sentence.) ## 3. Comma Splices A comma splice is using only a comma to connect two independent clauses. This is always wrong on the SAT. > Comma splice (WRONG): I studied all night, I was ready for the exam. > Fix 1 (semicolon): I studied all night; I was ready for the exam. > Fix 2 (period): I studied all night. I was ready for the exam. > Fix 3 (FANBOYS): I studied all night, so I was ready for the exam. FANBOYS = coordinating conjunctions: For, And, Nor, But, Or,…