Grammar - PSAT Reading & Writing

What is the rule for apostrophes in singular possessive nouns?

Add apostrophe + s ('s): "the student's book.". Shows ownership for one person or thing.
What is the subject–verb agreement rule for compound subjects joined by "and"?

Use a plural verb. Two subjects connected by "and" form a compound plural subject.
Which is correct for multiple cats: "the (cat's/cats') toys"?

cats'. Multiple cats own the toys, so apostrophe after the s.
What is the rule for using a semicolon between two independent clauses?

Use a semicolon to join closely related independent clauses without a conjunction. Creates a stronger pause than comma but less than period.
Choose the best correction: "Everyone must bring their ID." (formal test style)

Correct: "Everyone must bring his or her ID.". Formal tests require singular pronoun with "everyone."
What is the rule for using a comma before a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS)?

Use a comma before FANBOYS when it joins two independent clauses. FANBOYS = For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.
What is the rule for setting off nonessential (nonrestrictive) clauses?

Enclose nonessential information in commas. Commas separate extra info that could be removed.
Which verb form is correct for a compound subject joined by "and" (e.g., "Tom and Ana")?

Use a plural verb (e.g., "Tom and Ana are"). Compound subjects joined by 'and' are treated as plural.
What is the rule for choosing who versus whom in a sentence?

Use who for subjects; use whom for objects (verb or preposition). Subject performs action; object receives action.
Which verb is correct: "A list of items (is/are) on the table"?

is. The subject 'list' is singular, not the plural 'items' in the prepositional phrase.
Choose the correct word: "To ___ should I address the letter?"

whom. After prepositions like "to," use the object form "whom."
Find and correct the error: "He likes running, to swim, and biking."

He likes running, swimming, and biking. All items should be gerunds (-ing forms) for consistency.
Which is correct: "She brought: pens, paper, and tape" or "She brought pens, paper, and tape"?

She brought pens, paper, and tape. No colon after a verb; list follows directly.
Identify the correct pronoun case: "Between you and ___, the plan failed."

me. After prepositions like 'between,' use object pronouns.
Choose the correct word: "The company increased (its/it's) profits."

its. Shows possession without apostrophe (like his/her).
Find and correct the error: "I finished the lab, I submitted the report."

I finished the lab; I submitted the report. Semicolon correctly joins two complete sentences.
Choose the correct punctuation: "The book that won the award ____ on my desk."

no comma. "That won the award" specifies which book.
Which verb agrees correctly: "Neither the coaches nor the captain (was/were) late"?

was. With "neither...nor," the verb agrees with the closer subject (captain).
Which verb is correct with "either...or" when one subject is plural: "Either the coach or the players (was/were) late"?

were. Verb agrees with the closer subject in either/or constructions.
What is the rule for pronoun–antecedent agreement in number and gender?

A pronoun must match its antecedent in number and gender. Ensures clarity by matching pronoun to what it refers to.
What is the comma rule for introductory words, phrases, or dependent clauses?

Use a comma after an introductory element. Helps readers identify where the main clause begins.
Identify the correct verb: "The list of items (is/are) on the desk."

is. "List" is the singular subject, not "items."
What is the rule for subject–verb agreement with "either...or" and "neither...nor"?

The verb agrees with the subject closest to the verb. In either/or constructions, match the verb to the nearer subject.
What is the correct use of a colon in a sentence?

Use a colon after an independent clause to introduce a list or explanation. What follows the colon explains or details the independent clause.
What is the rule for pronoun–antecedent agreement in number and person?

Pronoun must match its antecedent in number and person. Ensures clarity by matching pronoun to its referent.
Which verb is correct: "Neither the students nor the teacher (is/are) ready"?

is. "Teacher" is closest to the verb, so use singular "is."
Choose the correct word: "She is (farther/further) along in her research."

further. "Further" for figurative distance; "farther" for physical distance.
Choose the correct form: "The teachers lounge" (a lounge for multiple teachers).

Correct: "The teachers' lounge.". Multiple teachers own it, so apostrophe after s.
Find and correct the error: "I finished the essay, I submitted it."

Use a semicolon: "I finished the essay; I submitted it.". Comma splice error: two complete sentences joined by only a comma.
Find and correct the comma splice: "I finished early, I left the room."

I finished early; I left the room. Comma alone can't join two independent clauses.
Which pronoun correctly completes: "Each of the students submitted ___ essay."?

his or her. "Each" is singular, requiring singular pronouns.
When should a semicolon be used in standard punctuation?

To join closely related independent clauses without a conjunction. Semicolons link complete thoughts without coordinating conjunctions.
Identify the correct form: "The (teachers/teacher's/teachers') lounge is closed."

teachers'. Multiple teachers own the lounge, so apostrophe follows the s.
Which option is correct: "To (who/whom) did you speak after the meeting"?

whom. "Whom" is the object of the preposition "to."
What is the correct placement rule for a modifier to avoid a dangling or misplaced modifier?

Place the modifier next to the word it describes. Modifiers must clearly connect to what they modify.
What punctuation should introduce a list after an independent clause?

A colon (:). Colons introduce lists after complete sentences.
Which pronoun correctly completes: "Neither the teachers nor the principal changed ____ mind"?

his or her. "Principal" is singular and closest to the verb.
Which option is correct: "(Who/Whom) did you invite to the meeting"?

Whom. 'Whom' is the object of the verb 'invite.'
What is the correct pronoun case for a direct object or object of a preposition?

Objective case: me, him, her, us, them, whom. These pronouns receive the action or follow prepositions.
Which punctuation best completes: "She had one goal ___ to finish the marathon"?

She had one goal: to finish the marathon. Colon introduces the explanation of her goal.
Which is correct: "Between you and (I/me), the plan failed"?

me. "Between" is a preposition requiring objective case.
Choose the correct punctuation: "My brother, who lives in Texas, is visiting." Essential or not?

Nonessential; commas are correct. "Who lives in Texas" adds extra info, not essential to identify.
Which punctuation is correct: "My brother who lives in Denver is visiting" (commas or none)?

No commas. Essential clauses identify which specific person/thing.
Choose the correct punctuation: "I studied; therefore(,/) I felt prepared."

comma. Conjunctive adverbs are followed by commas.
What is the rule for subject-verb agreement with "either/or" and "neither/nor"?

Verb agrees with the subject closest to the verb. In either/or constructions, match the nearer subject.
What is the rule for subject–verb agreement with a singular indefinite pronoun (e.g., each, everyone)?

Use a singular verb (e.g., "Each of the plans is..."). Indefinite pronouns like 'each' and 'everyone' are always singular.
Choose the correct word: "To (who/whom) did you speak after class?"

whom. "Whom" is the object of the preposition "to."
Choose the best correction: "Each student must bring their notebook."

Each student must bring his or her notebook. "Each" is singular, requiring singular pronouns.
What is the rule for pronoun–antecedent agreement?

A pronoun must match its antecedent in number and person. Pronouns must match what they refer to in singular/plural form.
Add or remove commas as needed: "My brother who lives in Miami is visiting." (one brother)

Correct: "My brother, who lives in Miami, is visiting.". "One brother" makes clause nonessential, requiring commas.
Choose the correct punctuation: "I wanted to go___ I was too tired."

I wanted to go, but I was too tired. Use comma + coordinating conjunction to join independent clauses.
Which option is correct for plural possession: "the teachers('/'s) lounge" (lounge for multiple teachers)?

teachers'. Plural nouns ending in 's' just add apostrophe after.
What is the rule for choosing between "I" and "me" in a compound subject or object?

Use "I" as subject; use "me" as object, even in compounds. Subject pronouns do actions; object pronouns receive actions.
What comma rule applies to a nonessential (nonrestrictive) clause beginning with "which"?

Set it off with commas. Nonessential information can be removed without changing meaning.
What is a dangling modifier?

A modifier that does not logically modify the word that follows it. The modifier has no clear subject to modify in the sentence.
What is the rule for parallel structure in a list or comparison?

Use the same grammatical form for all items being compared or listed. Maintains consistency in structure for clarity.
Find and correct the error: "The storm ended, the roads reopened."

Correct: "The storm ended; the roads reopened.". Semicolon properly connects two independent clauses.
What is the correct use of an apostrophe in a plural possessive noun ending in -s?

Add only an apostrophe after the -s (for example, the dogs' leash). Plural possessives already ending in -s just add apostrophe.
Choose the correct verb tense for consistency: "Yesterday we walk to class and talked."

Yesterday we walked to class and talked. Both verbs must match the past time frame ('Yesterday').
Find and correct the error: "The team of researchers are presenting today."

Correct: "The team of researchers is presenting today.". "Team" is a collective noun treated as singular.
Which verb agrees in "Either the teachers or the principal ___ attending"?

is. With 'or,' the verb agrees with the closer subject (principal = singular).
What is the difference between "its" and "it is" in standard written English?

"its" is possessive; "it is" is the contraction "it is.". No apostrophe for possession; apostrophe only for contraction.
What is the difference between an essential and a nonessential modifier clause?

Essential: no commas; Nonessential: set off with commas. Essential info restricts meaning; nonessential adds extra detail.
What verb agreement is required when two singular subjects are joined by "or" or "nor"?

Use a singular verb. "Or" and "nor" don't add subjects; the verb matches the single subject.
When should a semicolon be used between two clauses?

To join two closely related independent clauses without a conjunction. Semicolons link related complete thoughts.
Choose the best punctuation: "The experiment failed (;/,) we tried again."

;. Two independent clauses need semicolon or period, not comma.
What is the rule for placing modifiers to avoid ambiguity?

Place modifiers next to the word or phrase they modify. Prevents confusion about what modifies what.
What is the rule for placing commas with nonessential (nonrestrictive) clauses?

Set nonessential clauses off with commas on both sides. Nonessential info can be removed without changing meaning.
Find and correct the error: "Every student must bring their laptop."

Correct: "Every student must bring his or her laptop.". 'Every student' is singular, so use singular pronouns.
Choose the correct word: "There were (less/fewer) students in the library today."

Correct: "fewer.". Students are countable, requiring "fewer."
Which revision best fixes agreement: "Each of the players brought their jersey"?

Each of the players brought his or her jersey. "Each" is singular, requiring singular "his or her."
What is the correct use of a semicolon between two independent clauses?

Use a semicolon to join closely related independent clauses. Semicolons connect complete thoughts without conjunctions.
What is the correct way to fix a comma splice between two independent clauses?

Use a period, semicolon, or comma + coordinating conjunction. Two complete sentences can't be joined by comma alone.
What is the rule for subject–verb agreement when the subject is singular?

Use a singular verb form (often ends in -s in present tense). Singular subjects require singular verbs for grammatical agreement.
Find and correct the parallelism error: "She likes hiking, to swim, and biking."

Correct: "She likes hiking, swimming, and biking.". All verbs must be in -ing form for consistency.
Choose the correct pronoun: "(Who/Whom) did you invite to the meeting?"

Whom. "Whom" is the object of "did invite."
Which revision fixes agreement: "Each of the students must bring their ID"?

Each of the students must bring his or her ID. "Each" is singular and requires singular pronouns.
What is the rule for commas with nonessential (nonrestrictive) clauses?

Set nonessential information off with commas. Extra details that can be removed need commas on both sides.
Find and correct the error: "I finished the draft, I submitted it."

I finished the draft, and I submitted it. Adding "and" after the comma fixes the splice.
What is the rule for using a semicolon?

Use it to join related independent clauses or separate complex list items. Semicolons are stronger than commas but weaker than periods.
What is a misplaced modifier?

A modifier placed too far from what it describes, causing confusion. Creates ambiguity about what the modifier describes.
What is the correct punctuation for joining two independent clauses without a conjunction?

Use a semicolon (or a period) between the clauses. Two complete sentences need stronger punctuation than comma.
What is the rule for comma splices?

Do not join two independent clauses with only a comma. Two complete sentences need more than a comma between them.
Choose the correct punctuation: "My brother who lives in Denver is visiting." (Assume I have one brother.)

My brother, who lives in Denver, is visiting. With one brother, the clause is nonessential.
What is the agreement rule for "either/or" and "neither/nor" subjects?

Verb agrees with the noun closest to the verb. In either/or and neither/nor constructions, proximity determines agreement.
Which option is correct: "He brought three things(—/:) a map, water, and a compass"?

Colon: ":". The independent clause introduces the list that follows.
Identify the correct punctuation: "My brother, who lives in Miami(,) is visiting."

Comma needed: "My brother, who lives in Miami, is visiting.". The clause adds extra info about brother, not identifying which one.
What is the rule for commas around nonessential (parenthetical) information?

Set off nonessential clauses/phrases with commas. Nonessential info can be removed without changing meaning.
Find and correct the error: "After the meeting we went to dinner."

Correct: "After the meeting, we went to dinner.". Comma added after introductory phrase "After the meeting."
Which pronoun correctly agrees: "Each of the students brought ___ laptop"?

his or her. 'Each' is singular, requiring singular pronouns.
Identify the correct form: "The committee (decide/decides) to postpone the vote."

decides. Collective nouns like "committee" typically take singular verbs.
What is the rule for pronoun-antecedent agreement with indefinite pronouns like "each"?

Treat "each/either/neither/anyone" as singular; use singular pronouns. Indefinite pronouns are always singular in formal writing.
What is the rule for using a comma with two independent clauses?

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS). FANBOYS connect complete sentences with comma + conjunction.
Which is correct: "Between you and (I/me), the plan is risky"?

me. "Me" is the object of the preposition "between."
Which verb agrees in this sentence: "Neither the players nor the coach ____ late"?

was. With "or/nor," the verb agrees with the closer subject (coach).
Choose the correct form for plural possession: "the teachers___ lounge" (many teachers).

teachers'. Plural nouns ending in "s" add only an apostrophe.
What is the correct use of a colon after an independent clause?

Use a colon to introduce a list, explanation, or example. Colons signal that what follows explains or elaborates.
What pronoun case is required for a pronoun used as the subject of a clause?

Subjective case (I, he, she, we, they, who). Subjects perform actions and need subjective case.
What is parallel structure in a list or comparison?

Using the same grammatical form for each item or element. Items in series must have matching structures.
What is the correct use of a semicolon in a sentence?

Join related independent clauses without a conjunction. Semicolons connect complete, related thoughts.
Find and correct the error: "She likes hiking, to swim, and biking."

Correct: "She likes hiking, swimming, and biking.". All verbs should be in the same -ing form.
What is the rule for commas with a nonessential (nonrestrictive) clause?

Set it off with commas; it can be removed without changing core meaning. Nonessential information adds detail but isn't required for meaning.
What is the correct apostrophe rule for a singular noun showing possession?

Add apostrophe + s ('s). Most singular nouns form possessives this way.
Which option correctly fixes the comma splice: "I studied, I passed."

Correct: "I studied, and I passed.". Conjunction "and" properly joins two independent clauses.
Which verb is correct: "Neither the teachers nor the principal (was/were) informed."?

was. With neither/nor, verb agrees with closer subject (principal = singular).
What is the rule for making pronouns agree with antecedents in number and gender?

Pronoun must match antecedent in number and gender (and be clear). Ensures clarity by matching singular/plural and masculine/feminine forms.
What is the rule for choosing between "who" and "whom" in a sentence?

Use "who" as subject; use "whom" as object of verb or preposition. Subject performs action; object receives action or follows preposition.
Find and correct the error: "The experiment failed, the team repeated it."

The experiment failed; the team repeated it. Comma splice error; needs semicolon between clauses.
Which verb is correct: "Neither the teachers nor the student (is/are) ready."?

is. Verb agrees with the closer subject in "neither...nor" constructions.
Choose the correct pronoun: "A student should submit ____ application on time".

his or her. "Student" is singular, requiring singular pronouns.
What is the distinction between "fewer" and "less" in formal grammar?

"fewer" for count nouns; "less" for mass (uncountable) nouns. Can count individual items vs. measuring amounts.
Which verb is correct: "The list of items (is/are) on the desk"?

is. "List" is the subject, not "items," so use singular "is."
Find and correct the error: "Walking to school, the rain soaked my clothes."

Correct: "Walking to school, I was soaked by the rain.". 'I' must be the one walking, not the rain.
Find and correct the error: "The list of items are on the desk."

Correct: "The list of items is on the desk.". "List" is the subject (singular), not "items" in the prepositional phrase.
What is the rule for apostrophes in singular and plural possessives?

Singular: add 's; Plural ending in s: add '; Irregular plural: add 's. Shows ownership with correct apostrophe placement.
Choose the correct form: "the (students/students') projects" (projects belong to multiple students).

students'. Multiple students own projects, so apostrophe after s.
What is the comma rule for a nonessential (nonrestrictive) clause beginning with "which"?

Set it off with commas (or other matching punctuation). Nonessential information can be removed without changing core meaning.
What is the rule for pronoun–antecedent agreement in number?

A pronoun must match its antecedent in singular or plural. Pronouns must be singular or plural like their antecedents.
What is the rule for using an apostrophe with possessive nouns?

Add 's to singular; add s' to most plural nouns ending in s. Shows ownership through apostrophe placement.
Which choice is correct: "The book (that/which) I borrowed is overdue"?

that. No commas means the clause is essential, requiring "that."
What is the rule for apostrophes in singular and plural possession?

Singular: add 's; plural ending in s: add only '. Shows ownership: one owner gets 's, multiple owners ending in s get '.
Choose the correct word: "The lab used (less/fewer) chemicals this year."

fewer. "Chemicals" are countable, so use "fewer."
What is the rule for subject–verb agreement with subjects joined by "or" or "nor"?

Match the verb to the noun closest to the verb. The verb agrees with whichever subject is nearest to it.
Which verb is correct: "The list of items (is/are) on the table"?

is. "List" is the singular subject, not "items."
What is the rule for using "who" versus "whom"?

Use "who" as subject; use "whom" as object. "Who" performs actions; "whom" receives actions.
What is the rule for agreement when subjects are joined by "either/or" or "neither/nor"?

Verb agrees with the subject closest to the verb. In either/or constructions, proximity determines agreement.
Find and correct the punctuation: "My brother who lives in Denver is visiting." (meaning: I have one brother.)

My brother, who lives in Denver, is visiting. Having one brother makes "who lives in Denver" nonessential.
Find and correct the modifier error: "Walking to school, the backpack felt heavy."

Walking to school, I felt my backpack was heavy. The modifier must describe who was walking (I, not the backpack).
What is the rule for subject–verb agreement with singular indefinite pronouns (e.g., each, anyone)?

Use a singular verb (e.g., "Each is," "Anyone has"). Indefinite pronouns like 'each' and 'anyone' are always singular.
Identify the correct verb: "Each of the players (is/are) ready." Which option is correct?

is. "Each" is singular and requires a singular verb.
What pronoun case should be used for a subject pronoun?

Nominative case: I, he, she, we, they, who. Subject pronouns perform the action of the verb.
Which word is correct: "To (who/whom) did you speak yesterday"?

whom. "Whom" is the object of the preposition "to."
Find and correct the comma splice: "I studied all night, I was still nervous."

Correct: "I studied all night; I was still nervous.". Two complete sentences can't be joined by just a comma.
Choose the correct word: "To (who/whom) did you speak after the lecture?"

whom. "Whom" is the object of the preposition "to."
Which verb agrees correctly: "Each of the students (is/are) prepared"?

is. "Each" is singular, requiring a singular verb.
What is the difference between "who" and "whom"?

"Who" is subjective; "whom" is objective. Subject performs action (who); object receives action (whom).
Find and correct the dangling modifier: "Walking to class, the rain soaked my jacket."

Correct: "Walking to class, I was soaked by the rain.". "I" must be subject since I was walking.
What is the rule for choosing between "fewer" and "less"?

Use "fewer" for countable items; use "less" for uncountable amounts. Can count students individually, so use "fewer."
Where should commas go in this sentence: "After the meeting we reviewed the budget"?

After the introductory phrase: "After the meeting, we reviewed the budget.". Introductory phrases need commas before main clauses.
Find and correct the error: "The experiment ended, the results were unclear."

Replace comma with semicolon: "ended; the results were unclear.". Semicolons properly separate independent clauses.
What is the subject-verb agreement rule for compound subjects joined by "and"?

Use a plural verb (treat the subject as plural). Two singular subjects connected by "and" form a plural subject.
Which verb correctly completes the sentence: "Each of the players ____ ready"?

is. "Each" is singular and requires a singular verb.
What is a comma splice?

Two independent clauses joined only by a comma. Creates a run-on sentence error.
Which pronoun correctly completes: "Each of the students brought ____ notebook"?

his or her. "Each" is singular, requiring a singular pronoun.
What is the rule for using "that" versus "which" on the PSAT?

"That" for essential; "which" for nonessential (with commas). Essential info uses "that"; extra info uses "which" with commas.
What verb agreement is required with collective nouns (for example, "team") on the PSAT?

Usually singular when acting as one unit. Groups acting together take singular verbs on standardized tests.
Choose the correct punctuation: "My brother, who lives in Denver, is visiting." Is the comma use correct?

Correct if the brother is already uniquely identified (nonessential clause). Commas indicate the location is extra information, not identifying.
Which verb is correct: "Neither the coaches nor the captain (was/were) late"?

was. With "neither/nor," the verb agrees with the closer subject "captain" (singular).
What is the correct pronoun case for a subject (doer of the action)?

Subjective case: I, he, she, we, they, who. These pronouns function as subjects of verbs.
What is the rule for subject–verb agreement with a compound subject joined by "and"?

Use a plural verb. Two subjects connected by "and" are treated as plural.
What punctuation rule separates two independent clauses without a conjunction?

Use a semicolon (or period). Independent clauses need stronger punctuation than a comma.
What is the rule for placing modifiers to avoid ambiguity and dangling modifiers?

Place modifiers next to the word they modify; avoid missing subjects. Modifiers must clearly connect to what they describe.
What is the rule for using a comma with a nonessential (nonrestrictive) clause?

Set nonessential clauses off with commas. Nonessential information can be removed without changing meaning.
What punctuation is required to join two independent clauses with a conjunctive adverb?

Semicolon before; comma after (e.g., ; however,). Conjunctive adverbs need stronger punctuation than commas.
What is the rule for avoiding misplaced and dangling modifiers?

Place modifiers next to the word they modify; dangling modifiers need a clear subject. Modifiers must clearly connect to what they describe.
Insert punctuation: "After the movie ended we discussed the theme."

After the movie ended, we discussed the theme. Introductory dependent clauses need commas.
Choose the correct punctuation: "After the storm ended ____ the roads reopened."

After the storm ended, the roads reopened. The dependent clause "After the storm ended" is introductory.
What is the rule for commas after introductory words, phrases, or dependent clauses?

Use a comma after an introductory element before the main clause. Helps readers identify where the main clause begins.
What is the rule for apostrophes in singular and plural possession?

Singular: add 's; plural ending in s: add '; irregular plural: add 's. Shows ownership patterns for different noun types.
Which option is correct: "She wanted to go, but the store was closed" (comma needed or not)?

Comma needed (two independent clauses). 'But' joins two complete sentences here.
What verb agreement rule applies to subjects joined by "and"?

Use a plural verb (except when the pair is a single unit). Compound subjects typically take plural verbs.
What is the comma rule for items in a series of three or more elements?

Use commas between items; include the Oxford comma if needed for clarity. Separates list items; Oxford comma prevents ambiguity.
Which sentence correctly punctuates the nonessential clause?

Correct: "My brother, who lives in Miami, is visiting.". The clause adds extra info about the only brother.
What is the rule for restrictive (essential) clauses beginning with "that"?

Do not use commas around essential clauses; "that" is common. Essential clauses define which specific thing is meant.
What is parallel structure?

Using the same grammatical form for items in a series or comparison. Creates balance and clarity in lists and comparisons.
Choose the correct form: "The (teachers'/teacher's) lounge is on the second floor" (one teacher).

teacher's. Singular possessive for one teacher's ownership.
Find and correct the punctuation: "She packed three things; a map, water, and snacks."

Correct: "She packed three things: a map, water, and snacks.". Semicolon replaced with colon to properly introduce the list.
Find and correct the error: "I finished my work, and went home."

Correct: "I finished my work and went home.". No comma needed; "went home" isn't an independent clause.
Choose the correct punctuation: "She brought three items (—/:) a notebook, a pen, and a ruler."

:. Complete clauses before lists require colons.
What is parallel structure, and where is it most often tested on the PSAT?

Match grammatical forms in a list, comparison, or paired construction. Keeps sentence elements in same grammatical form.
Which punctuation is correct: "The results were clear ___ the hypothesis was wrong."

The results were clear; the hypothesis was wrong. Two complete sentences need a semicolon, not a comma.
What is the rule for modifier placement to avoid dangling or misplaced modifiers?

Place modifiers next to the word they logically modify. Modifiers should clearly connect to what they describe.
What is the correct use of an apostrophe in a singular possessive noun?

Add 's to the singular noun (for example, the dog's leash). Apostrophe + s shows one owner possesses something.
What is the rule for choosing who versus whom?

Use who as subject; use whom as object of verb or preposition. 'Who' performs actions; 'whom' receives actions.
What is the verb agreement rule for subjects joined by "or" when one is singular and one is plural?

Match the verb to the subject closest to the verb. The proximity rule applies when subjects differ in number.
Insert punctuation: "My brother who lives in Denver is visiting" (nonessential clause).

My brother, who lives in Denver, is visiting. Nonessential clause requires commas before and after.
Choose the correct correction: "Each of the students have a laptop."

Correct: "Each of the students has a laptop.". "Each" is singular and requires singular verb "has."
Choose the correct pronoun: "Between you and (I/me), the plan is risky."

me. Objects of prepositions require objective case.
Which punctuation is correct: "The results were clear; we changed the protocol"?

Semicolon is correct as written. Two independent clauses can be joined by a semicolon.
Which sentence correctly uses a colon to introduce a list?

She packed three items: water, a map, and a flashlight. Colons introduce lists after complete sentences.
Which word is correct: "To (who/whom) did you speak after the meeting"?

whom. "Whom" is the object of the preposition "to."
Choose the best punctuation: "I bought apples, oranges (and;/, and) bananas."

, and. Comma before "and" in a series (Oxford comma style).
What is the difference between "who" and "whom" in standard English?

"Who" is subject; "whom" is object. Use "who" for subjects and "whom" for objects.
Find and correct the modifier error: "Walking to school, the backpack was heavy."

Correct: "Walking to school, I found my backpack heavy.". "I" must be the one walking, not the backpack.
Find and correct the misplaced modifier: "Running down the street, the backpack bounced."

Correct: "Running down the street, I felt my backpack bounce.". The modifier must refer to the subject "I," not the backpack.
Which verb is correct: "Neither the students nor the teacher (was/were) ready"?

was. "Teacher" is singular and closest to the verb.
Which punctuation best fixes the comma splice: "She studied hard, she passed"?

Replace the comma with a semicolon. Semicolons fix comma splices between independent clauses.
What is the rule for choosing between "who" and "whom" in a sentence?

Use "who" as subject; use "whom" as object (verb or preposition). Subject performs action; object receives action.
What is the rule for using a comma with a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS)?

Use a comma before FANBOYS when joining two independent clauses. Prevents run-on sentences between complete thoughts.
What is the correct way to join two independent clauses with a semicolon?

Independent clause; independent clause. Semicolons connect related complete thoughts.
Choose the correct pronoun: "Each of the students brought (his or her/their) notebook."

his or her. "Each" is singular, requiring singular pronouns.
Choose the correct pronoun: "If anyone calls, tell (him or her/them) I will return."

him or her. "Anyone" is singular and traditionally takes singular pronouns.
Which choice correctly uses who/whom: "To ___ did you speak?"

whom. 'Whom' is the object of the preposition 'to.'
Choose the correct pronoun: "If anyone calls, tell (him or her/them) I will return soon."

him or her. "Anyone" is singular and requires singular pronouns.
What is the rule for parallel structure in lists and paired constructions?

Use the same grammatical form for items in a series or pair. Creates balance and clarity in writing.
What is the rule for avoiding dangling modifiers?

Place the modifier next to the word it logically describes. The modifier must clearly refer to its intended subject.
Find and correct the comma splice: "The test was hard, I finished on time."

The test was hard; I finished on time. Comma splices incorrectly join independent clauses.
Find and correct the modifier error: "Walking to school, the rain soaked my jacket."

Walking to school, I was soaked as the rain drenched my jacket. "I" must be the one walking to avoid dangling modifier.
Identify the best correction: "Each student must bring their ID."

Each student must bring his or her ID. "Each" is singular and requires singular pronouns.
Choose the correct pronoun: "Between you and (I/me), the plan is risky".

me. "Between" is a preposition requiring objective case.
What is the rule for essential versus nonessential information in commas?

Nonessential info takes commas; essential info does not. Essential info restricts meaning; nonessential adds extra detail.
Find and correct the error: "The company increased it's profits."

Correct: "The company increased its profits.". "Its" without apostrophe shows possession.
What is subject–verb agreement in a simple present-tense sentence?

A singular subject takes a singular verb; a plural subject takes a plural verb. Match verb form to whether subject is one (singular) or many (plural).
Find and correct the punctuation: "My sister, who lives in Denver is visiting."

Correct: "My sister, who lives in Denver, is visiting.". Nonessential clause needs closing comma after "Denver."
What is the rule for commas in a series of three or more items?

Use commas between items; optional Oxford comma before the final and. Commas separate items; Oxford comma prevents ambiguity.
What is the rule for subject–verb agreement with "either/or" and "neither/nor" subjects?

Verb agrees with the noun closest to the verb. The verb matches whichever subject is nearer.
What is the rule for comma use with a nonessential (nonrestrictive) clause?

Set it off with commas; it can be removed without changing core meaning. Nonessential information needs commas for separation.
What is the rule for colon usage after an independent clause?

Use a colon to introduce a list, explanation, or example. Complete sentence before colon can introduce what follows.
What is the rule for using "its" versus "it's"?

"Its" is possessive; "it's" means "it is" or "it has.". No apostrophe for possession; apostrophe for contraction.
What is the rule for subject–verb agreement with compound subjects joined by "and"?

Use a plural verb (treat the subject as plural). Two subjects connected by "and" form a plural subject.

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