The Most Difficult Grammar Questions in the SAT

Though it looks simple, the grammatical logic behind this question is the basis of all difficult grammar questions in the SAT and the ACT.



*The answers can be found at the end of this page,

but please read this page thoroughly.



As mentioned earlier, SAT Punctuation essentially comes down to two core concepts: Parallel Punctuation and Comma splice / Run-on.


These two concepts comprises the vast majority of difficult grammar questions.


This section will deal with advanced Parallel Punctuation concepts.




Basic Parallel Punctuation Rule:


There cannot be just 1 comma between a subject and a verb.


There should always be 0 or 2 commas within the core.



Advanced Parallel Punctuation Rule:


Modifiers must be clearly punctuated within a LIST.



To understand this advanced concept, we must first understand simple rules of listing.



listing 2 things or people





listing 3 or more things or people





Important Reminder


Understand that 


,and is also used to connect two complete sentences.


Develop the habit of identifying how “,and” is used in a sentence. When solving difficult punctuation questions ask yourself whether the writer is listing or connecting two sentences.



Exercise 1 Answer Explanation

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