SHSAT English Language Arts Quiz: Run Ons And Comma Splices
20 questions · exam conditions
0:00
Run Ons And Comma SplicesQuestion 1 of 20

(1) The desert landscape appears barren from a distance. (2) However, upon closer inspection, it teems with life adapted to the harsh conditions. (3) Many animals are nocturnal to avoid the daytime heat, they have developed unique ways to conserve water. (4) Plants often have deep roots to find moisture far below the sandy surface.

Which sentence in the paragraph contains an error in its construction and should be revised?

sentence 1
sentence 2
sentence 4
sentence 3
← Back to quizzes

SHSAT English Language Arts Quiz

SHSAT English Language Arts Quiz: Run Ons And Comma Splices

Practice Run Ons And Comma Splices in SHSAT English Language Arts with focused quiz questions that help you check what you know, review explanations, and build confidence with test-style prompts.

What this quiz covers

This quiz focuses on Run Ons And Comma Splices, giving you a quick way to practice the rules, question types, and explanations that matter most for SHSAT English Language Arts.

How to use this quiz

Try each quiz question before looking at the correct answer. Use the explanations to review missed ideas, then come back to similar questions until the pattern feels familiar.

All questions

Question 1

(1) The desert landscape appears barren from a distance. (2) However, upon closer inspection, it teems with life adapted to the harsh conditions. (3) Many animals are nocturnal to avoid the daytime heat, they have developed unique ways to conserve water. (4) Plants often have deep roots to find moisture far below the sandy surface.

Which sentence in the paragraph contains an error in its construction and should be revised?

  1. sentence 1
  2. sentence 2
  3. sentence 4
  4. sentence 3 (correct answer)
Explanation: When you encounter questions about sentence construction, you're looking for errors in grammar, punctuation, or sentence structure that make the writing unclear or incorrect. Let's examine each sentence carefully. Sentence 3 contains a comma splice error: "Many animals are nocturnal to avoid the daytime heat, they have developed unique ways to conserve water." This joins two complete, independent clauses with only a comma, which is grammatically incorrect. The first clause "Many animals are nocturnal to avoid the daytime heat" and the second clause "they have developed unique ways to conserve water" could each stand alone as complete sentences. To fix this, you could use a semicolon, add a coordinating conjunction like "and," or split them into separate sentences. Looking at the other options: Sentence 1 (A) is a simple, correctly constructed sentence with proper subject-verb agreement. Sentence 2 (B) uses the transitional word "However" correctly and maintains proper sentence structure with the phrase "upon closer inspection" appropriately placed. Sentence 4 (C) is grammatically sound with the adverb "often" correctly modifying the verb "have" and an infinitive phrase "to find moisture" properly expressing purpose. The answer is D because sentence 3 commits the comma splice error. Study tip: Watch for comma splices on the SHSAT—they're a common error pattern. When you see two complete thoughts joined by just a comma, that's usually your answer. Remember that independent clauses need stronger punctuation (semicolon or period) or a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, etc.) to connect properly.

Question 2

(1) Urban planners work to design functional and livable cities. (2) They consider many factors, for instance, they analyze traffic patterns and public transportation needs. (3) Green spaces, such as parks and community gardens, are also a crucial component of their designs. (4) Good planning can significantly improve the quality of life for a city's residents.

Which sentence contains a punctuation error and should be rewritten?

  1. sentence 1
  2. sentence 2 (correct answer)
  3. sentence 3
  4. sentence 4
Explanation: This question tests your ability to identify comma splices, one of the most common punctuation errors on the SHSAT. A comma splice occurs when two complete sentences (independent clauses) are incorrectly joined with only a comma. Sentence 2 contains the error: "They consider many factors, for instance, they analyze traffic patterns and public transportation needs." Here, "They consider many factors" is a complete sentence, and "they analyze traffic patterns and public transportation needs" is also a complete sentence. You cannot connect two complete sentences with just a comma and the phrase "for instance." This creates a comma splice. To fix it, you could use a semicolon before "for instance" or start a new sentence. Looking at the other options: (A) Sentence 1 is correctly punctuated with no errors. (C) Sentence 3 properly uses commas to set off the example "such as parks and community gardens" within the sentence structure. (D) Sentence 4 has correct punctuation throughout, with no comma splices or other errors. The key trap here is that "for instance" might seem like it can connect two sentences with just commas, but transitional phrases like "for instance," "however," "therefore," and "consequently" need stronger punctuation (semicolons or periods) when connecting independent clauses. Study tip: When you see transitional phrases between two complete thoughts, check if both sides could stand alone as sentences. If yes, you need a semicolon or period, not just a comma.

Question 3

(1) The invention of the printing press in the 15th century was a revolutionary event. (2) It allowed for the mass production of books, knowledge became more accessible to ordinary people. (3) Before this, books were rare and expensive, copied by hand primarily by monks in monasteries. (4) This technological leap fueled the Renaissance, the Reformation, and the Age of Enlightenment.

Which sentence in the paragraph should be revised to correct an error in its construction?

  1. sentence 2 (correct answer)
  2. sentence 1
  3. sentence 3
  4. sentence 4
Explanation: When you encounter questions about sentence construction, you're looking for grammatical errors that make sentences unclear or incorrect. The most common issues include run-on sentences, comma splices, and improper sentence boundaries. Sentence 2 contains a comma splice error. It reads: "It allowed for the mass production of books, knowledge became more accessible to ordinary people." This incorrectly joins two complete independent clauses with just a comma. Each clause could stand alone as a sentence: "It allowed for the mass production of books" and "knowledge became more accessible to ordinary people." To fix this, you could use a semicolon, add a coordinating conjunction like "and," or split it into two sentences. Looking at the other options: Sentence 1 (B) is grammatically correct with proper subject-verb agreement and sentence structure. Sentence 3 (C) correctly uses a comma to separate the main clause from the participial phrase "copied by hand primarily by monks in monasteries." Sentence 4 (D) has no construction errors—it properly lists the three historical periods with correct comma usage. The correct answer is A because sentence 2 needs revision to eliminate the comma splice. Remember that comma splices are common traps on the SHSAT. When you see two complete thoughts joined by only a comma, that's your red flag. Always check whether each part of the sentence could stand alone—if both sides can, you need stronger punctuation than just a comma to connect them properly.

Question 4

(1) The Komodo dragon is the world's largest lizard, sometimes growing up to ten feet long. (2) It is a powerful predator native to a few Indonesian islands. (3) Its bite is venomous, its saliva contains dozens of types of bacteria. (4) This combination of toxins incapacitates its prey quickly.

Which sentence contains an error in its construction and should be revised?

  1. sentence 1
  2. sentence 2
  3. sentence 3 (correct answer)
  4. sentence 4
Explanation: When you encounter questions about sentence construction errors, you're being tested on your ability to identify common grammatical mistakes that disrupt sentence flow and clarity. Sentence 3 contains a comma splice error: "Its bite is venomous, its saliva contains dozens of types of bacteria." This sentence incorrectly joins two complete independent clauses (each could stand alone as a sentence) with only a comma. The first clause "Its bite is venomous" and the second clause "its saliva contains dozens of types of bacteria" both have subjects and verbs, making them complete thoughts that cannot be connected with just a comma. Let's examine why the other options are incorrect: Choice A (sentence 1) is grammatically correct. It uses proper punctuation and sentence structure, with the descriptive phrase "sometimes growing up to ten feet long" correctly modifying the main clause. Choice B (sentence 2) is also properly constructed. It contains one independent clause with appropriate word order and punctuation. Choice D (sentence 4) is correct as written. "This combination of toxins" serves as a clear subject referring back to the previous sentences, and the sentence structure is sound. To fix sentence 3, you could use a semicolon ("Its bite is venomous; its saliva contains dozens of types of bacteria"), add a coordinating conjunction ("Its bite is venomous, and its saliva contains dozens of types of bacteria"), or separate them into two sentences. Study tip: Watch for comma splices on the SHSAT—they're common traps. If you see two complete thoughts joined only by a comma, that's likely your error.

Question 5

(1) Many people believe that glass is a slow-moving liquid. (2) This is a common misconception, in reality, glass is an amorphous solid. (3) Its atoms lack the ordered structure of a crystal, but they are fixed in place. (4) The apparent 'flow' in old windowpanes is actually due to inconsistencies in the original glass-making process.

Which sentence has a structural error that needs to be corrected?

  1. sentence 1
  2. sentence 3
  3. sentence 2 (correct answer)
  4. sentence 4
Explanation: When you encounter questions about sentence structure, you're looking for grammatical errors that disrupt the flow or clarity of writing. These often involve punctuation problems, run-on sentences, or comma splices. Sentence 2 contains a comma splice, which is a structural error where two independent clauses are incorrectly joined by only a comma. "This is a common misconception" and "in reality, glass is an amorphous solid" are both complete thoughts that can stand alone as sentences. Simply connecting them with a comma creates an error. This sentence needs either a semicolon, a period, or a coordinating conjunction (like "but") after "misconception" to be grammatically correct. Looking at the other options: Sentence 1 (A) is grammatically sound—it's a simple declarative sentence with proper subject-verb agreement. Sentence 3 (B) correctly uses a comma to separate two independent clauses joined by the coordinating conjunction "but." Sentence 4 (D) is also structurally correct, using proper punctuation and maintaining parallel structure. The key strategy here is to identify independent clauses (complete thoughts with both subject and predicate) and check how they're connected. When you see two complete sentences joined only by a comma, that's your red flag for a comma splice. Remember that independent clauses need stronger punctuation than just a comma to separate them, or they need a coordinating conjunction to create a proper compound sentence.

Question 6

(1) The first digital computer, ENIAC, was completed in 1945. (2) It was enormous, it filled an entire room and weighed over 30 tons. (3) Its computing power was minimal compared to even the most basic modern smartphone. (4) Nevertheless, it represented a monumental leap forward in technology.

Which sentence contains an error in sentence structure?

  1. sentence 1
  2. sentence 3
  3. sentence 2 (correct answer)
  4. sentence 4
Explanation: When you encounter sentence structure questions, you're looking for errors in how clauses are connected or punctuated. The most common problems involve run-on sentences, comma splices, and sentence fragments. Sentence 2 contains a comma splice error. It reads: "It was enormous, it filled an entire room and weighed over 30 tons." This incorrectly joins two independent clauses (complete thoughts) with only a comma. Each part could stand alone as a sentence: "It was enormous" and "It filled an entire room and weighed over 30 tons." To fix this, you could use a semicolon, add a coordinating conjunction after the comma ("It was enormous, and it filled..."), or split it into two sentences. Looking at the other choices: Sentence 1 (A) is correctly structured with a simple subject-verb-object pattern and proper punctuation. Sentence 3 (B) uses correct structure with a dependent clause ("compared to even the most basic modern smartphone") properly attached to the main clause. Sentence 4 (D) is also correct, using "Nevertheless" as a transitional word followed by a properly punctuated independent clause. Remember that independent clauses cannot be joined by commas alone—this creates a comma splice. When you see two complete thoughts separated only by a comma, that's your red flag. Always check whether each part of a sentence could stand alone, and if so, make sure they're connected with appropriate punctuation or conjunctions.

Question 7

(1) The city council approved the new budget after a long and heated debate. (2) Several key initiatives were funded, including the modernization of the public library and the expansion of park services. (3) The final vote was close it passed by a single margin. (4) The mayor praised the council for their bipartisan cooperation.

Which sentence is a run-on sentence and should be revised?

  1. sentence 3 (correct answer)
  2. sentence 2
  3. sentence 1
  4. sentence 4
Explanation: When you encounter questions about sentence structure, you need to identify run-on sentences—sentences that incorrectly join two or more independent clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions. Let's examine sentence 3: "The final vote was close it passed by a single margin." This contains two complete thoughts: "The final vote was close" and "it passed by a single margin." Each could stand alone as a sentence, but they're improperly joined with just a space. This creates a run-on sentence that needs revision with either a semicolon, a comma plus conjunction, or by splitting into two sentences. Looking at the other options: Sentence 2 (B) is correctly structured with one main clause followed by a dependent phrase beginning with "including." Sentence 1 (C) contains one independent clause with a prepositional phrase—this is perfectly correct. Sentence 4 (D) has one subject ("mayor") with one complete predicate, making it a proper simple sentence. The trap here is that longer sentences might seem like run-ons, but length alone doesn't determine correctness. Sentence 2 is the longest but uses proper punctuation and structure. Meanwhile, sentence 3 appears deceptively simple but commits the classic run-on error of joining independent clauses incorrectly. Study tip: To catch run-ons quickly, read each sentence aloud and listen for natural pauses where you'd expect punctuation. If you hear two complete thoughts running together without proper connection, you've found your run-on sentence.

Question 8

(1) The global supply chain is a complex network of producers, vendors, and transportation systems. (2) A disruption in one part of the chain can have far-reaching effects. (3) For example, a factory shutdown can delay product delivery for months, a shipping container shortage can increase costs for consumers. (4) Economists study these intricate connections to better predict and manage potential problems.

Which sentence should be revised to correct a punctuation error?

  1. sentence 1
  2. sentence 2
  3. sentence 4
  4. sentence 3 (correct answer)
Explanation: When you encounter punctuation questions on the SHSAT, look for common errors like comma splices, run-on sentences, and missing punctuation that separates independent clauses. Sentence 3 contains a comma splice error. It reads: "For example, a factory shutdown can delay product delivery for months, a shipping container shortage can increase costs for consumers." This sentence incorrectly joins two complete, independent clauses with just a comma. Each clause can stand alone as a complete sentence: "A factory shutdown can delay product delivery for months" and "A shipping container shortage can increase costs for consumers." To fix this, you need either a semicolon, a period, or a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction like "and." Answer choice A is incorrect because sentence 1 is properly punctuated—it's a simple sentence with appropriate comma usage in the series "producers, vendors, and transportation systems." Answer choice B is wrong because sentence 2 uses correct punctuation; it's a straightforward sentence with a properly placed comma after the introductory phrase. Answer choice C is incorrect because sentence 4 has no punctuation errors—it's a complex sentence with a properly placed comma separating the dependent clause from the main clause. Remember this pattern: when two complete thoughts are joined only by a comma, you've found a comma splice. Always check if each part of a comma-separated sentence could stand alone—if both can, you need stronger punctuation than just a comma.

Question 9

(1) The recycling program has been a huge success in our community. (2) Last year, residents recycled over ten tons of material, this significantly reduced the amount of waste sent to the landfill. (3) The city plans to expand the program to include compost collection next spring. (4) Informational brochures will be mailed to all households next month.

Which sentence contains an error in punctuation and should be revised?

  1. sentence 1
  2. sentence 3
  3. sentence 2 (correct answer)
  4. sentence 4
Explanation: This question tests your ability to identify punctuation errors, specifically focusing on how to properly connect independent clauses. Looking at sentence 2, you'll notice it contains two complete thoughts: "Last year, residents recycled over ten tons of material" and "this significantly reduced the amount of waste sent to the landfill." These are independent clauses (complete sentences that could stand alone), but they're incorrectly joined with just a comma. This creates a comma splice, which is a serious punctuation error. To fix this, you could use a semicolon, add a coordinating conjunction after the comma (like "and"), or split it into two sentences. Now let's examine why the other options are incorrect. Sentence 1 (A) is punctuated correctly—it's a simple sentence with proper comma usage around the prepositional phrase. Sentence 3 (B) contains no punctuation errors; it's a straightforward sentence with correct comma placement separating the time phrase "next spring." Sentence 4 (D) is also properly punctuated as a simple sentence with no internal punctuation needed. When you encounter punctuation questions on the SHSAT, always look for comma splices—they're common errors where two independent clauses are incorrectly joined by only a comma. Train yourself to identify independent clauses by checking if each part could stand alone as a complete sentence. If they can, make sure they're properly connected with appropriate punctuation or conjunctions.

Question 10

(1) The chameleon is known for its ability to change color. (2) This adaptation serves primarily as a form of communication it also helps with camouflage and regulating body temperature. (3) Different colors can signal aggression, fear, or a willingness to mate. (4) The chameleon's tongue is another remarkable feature, capable of extending to twice its body length.

Which sentence should be revised to correct an error in sentence structure?

  1. sentence 1
  2. sentence 2 (correct answer)
  3. sentence 3
  4. sentence 4
Explanation: When you encounter questions about sentence structure, you're looking for problems with how sentences are constructed—specifically issues like run-on sentences, comma splices, or fragments. Let's examine each sentence systematically. Sentence 2 contains a serious structural error: "This adaptation serves primarily as a form of communication it also helps with camouflage and regulating body temperature." This creates a run-on sentence because two independent clauses ("This adaptation serves primarily as a form of communication" and "it also helps with camouflage and regulating body temperature") are joined without proper punctuation or a conjunction. This needs to be corrected with either a semicolon, a comma plus coordinating conjunction, or by splitting into two sentences. Choice A is incorrect because sentence 1 is grammatically complete and properly structured. Choice C is wrong because sentence 3 follows correct structure with a clear subject and predicate. Choice D is also incorrect since sentence 4 is properly constructed with appropriate use of a comma and participial phrase. The other sentences demonstrate proper sentence construction: sentence 1 uses a straightforward subject-verb-object pattern, sentence 3 correctly uses a compound object, and sentence 4 properly employs a comma to set off a descriptive phrase. Study tip: When checking sentence structure, read each sentence aloud and listen for natural pauses. If you find yourself wanting to pause between two complete thoughts but there's no punctuation, you've likely found a run-on sentence that needs revision.

Question 11

Which revision corrects the error in the sentence below?

Jamal wanted to go to the concert, he did not have enough money for a ticket.

  1. Jamal wanted to go to the concert, but he did not have enough money for a ticket. (correct answer)
  2. Jamal wanted to go to the concert, and he did not have enough money for a ticket.
  3. Jamal wanted to go to the concert he did not have enough money for a ticket.
  4. Jamal wanted to go to the concert, so he did not have enough money for a ticket.
Explanation: This question tests your ability to identify and fix comma splices, one of the most common sentence errors on the SHSAT. A comma splice occurs when you use only a comma to join two complete, independent thoughts that could stand alone as separate sentences. The original sentence contains a comma splice: "Jamal wanted to go to the concert" and "he did not have enough money for a ticket" are both complete thoughts incorrectly joined by just a comma. To fix this error, you need to show the logical relationship between these two ideas. Choice A correctly fixes the comma splice by adding the coordinating conjunction "but" after the comma. This creates a proper compound sentence and shows the contrasting relationship between Jamal's desire to attend and his financial limitation. The word "but" signals that the second clause contradicts or limits the first. Choice B uses "and," which incorrectly suggests the two ideas are simply additional to each other rather than contrasting. Choice C removes the comma entirely, creating a run-on sentence where two complete thoughts crash into each other without proper punctuation. Choice D uses "so," which implies that wanting to go to the concert caused him to not have money—a illogical cause-and-effect relationship. Remember the FANBOYS coordinating conjunctions (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So) when you see comma splice questions. Always check whether the conjunction you choose creates a logical relationship between the two ideas, not just grammatically correct structure.

Question 12

How should the following sentence be revised for correctness?

The new city ordinance was controversial, therefore, the council meeting was attended by many concerned citizens.

  1. The new city ordinance was controversial therefore the council meeting was attended by many concerned citizens.
  2. The new city ordinance was controversial; therefore, the council meeting was attended by many concerned citizens. (correct answer)
  3. The new city ordinance was controversial, therefore the council meeting was attended by many concerned citizens.
  4. The new city ordinance was controversial, and therefore, the council meeting was attended by many concerned citizens.
Explanation: This question tests your understanding of how to properly connect two independent clauses, particularly when using transitional words like "therefore." The original sentence contains a comma splice error. When you have two complete thoughts (independent clauses) connected by a transitional word like "therefore," you need stronger punctuation than just a comma. The word "therefore" is a conjunctive adverb, which requires either a semicolon before it or a coordinating conjunction. Choice B correctly uses a semicolon before "therefore" and keeps the comma after it. This follows the proper punctuation rule: semicolon + conjunctive adverb + comma. The semicolon properly separates the two independent clauses while showing their logical relationship. Choice A removes all punctuation around "therefore," creating a run-on sentence that's difficult to read and grammatically incorrect. Choice C is identical to the original sentence and maintains the comma splice error. Choice D adds "and" before "therefore," which creates redundancy since both "and" and "therefore" serve to connect the clauses, making the sentence wordy and awkward. When you encounter sentences with transitional words like "therefore," "however," "nevertheless," or "consequently," remember the semicolon rule. These conjunctive adverbs cannot be treated like simple coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or). They need either a semicolon before them or to start a new sentence entirely. This pattern appears frequently on standardized tests, so mastering it will serve you well.

Question 13

What is the best way to write the ideas in the two sentences below?

The symphony performed to a sold-out audience. The conductor received a standing ovation.

  1. The symphony performed to a sold-out audience, while the conductor received a standing ovation.
  2. The symphony performed to a sold-out audience, the conductor received a standing ovation.
  3. The symphony performed to a sold-out audience the conductor received a standing ovation.
  4. The symphony performed to a sold-out audience, and the conductor received a standing ovation. (correct answer)
Explanation: This question tests your ability to combine two related sentences using proper punctuation and conjunctions. When you see sentences that need to be joined, you must consider both the logical relationship between the ideas and the grammatical rules for sentence combining. The correct answer is D because it properly connects two independent clauses with a comma followed by the coordinating conjunction "and." Both sentences express related but separate complete thoughts: the symphony's performance and the conductor's reception of applause. The conjunction "and" appropriately shows that these events are connected and likely sequential - the performance led to the audience's enthusiastic response. Choice A is incorrect because "while" suggests the two events happened simultaneously, which doesn't make logical sense. The conductor wouldn't receive a standing ovation during the performance, but rather after it concluded. Choice B creates a comma splice error - you cannot join two independent clauses with only a comma. This violates a fundamental grammar rule and creates a run-on sentence. Choice C produces a run-on sentence by connecting two independent clauses without any punctuation or conjunction. This makes the sentence difficult to read and grammatically incorrect. Remember this pattern: when combining two complete sentences that express related ideas happening in sequence or as cause and effect, use a comma plus "and." Watch out for comma splices (comma only) and run-on sentences (no punctuation) - these are common traps on sentence-combining questions.

Question 14

Which sentence is written correctly?

  1. The weather forecast predicted rain, so we decided to postpone the picnic. (correct answer)
  2. The weather forecast predicted rain we decided to postpone the picnic.
  3. The weather forecast predicted rain, we decided to postpone the picnic.
  4. The weather forecast predicting rain, we decided to postpone the picnic.
Explanation: When you encounter a question about sentence structure, focus on how independent clauses (complete thoughts) are connected. Each option here contains two independent clauses: "The weather forecast predicted rain" and "we decided to postpone the picnic." Option A correctly joins these independent clauses with a comma followed by the coordinating conjunction "so." This creates a proper compound sentence that shows the cause-and-effect relationship between the weather prediction and the decision. The comma-plus-conjunction structure is one of the standard ways to connect independent clauses in English. Option B creates a run-on sentence by placing two independent clauses directly next to each other with no punctuation or connecting word. This violates basic sentence structure rules and makes the sentence difficult to read. Option C commits a comma splice error—using only a comma to join two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction. While the comma provides a pause, it's grammatically insufficient to connect complete thoughts. Option D uses a dangling participial phrase ("The weather forecast predicting rain") that creates an incomplete and awkward construction. The participle "predicting" doesn't properly connect to the main clause, leaving the sentence grammatically flawed. Remember this pattern for the SHSAT: when you see two complete thoughts in answer choices, look for proper connections. Valid options include a semicolon alone, a comma plus coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so), or separating them into distinct sentences. Avoid run-ons and comma splices.

Question 15

What is the best way to fix the error in the sentence below?

Many species of birds migrate south for the winter they fly thousands of miles to reach warmer climates.

  1. Many species of birds migrate south for the winter, they fly thousands of miles to reach warmer climates.
  2. Many species of birds migrate south for the winter, for they fly thousands of miles to reach warmer climates.
  3. Many species of birds migrate south for the winter. They fly thousands of miles to reach warmer climates. (correct answer)
  4. Many species of birds migrate south for the winter, but they fly thousands of miles to reach warmer climates.
Explanation: When you encounter a question about sentence structure, look for common errors like run-on sentences, comma splices, and fragments. The original sentence contains a run-on sentence error—two complete independent clauses joined together without proper punctuation or conjunctions. The correct answer is C because it properly separates two independent clauses into distinct sentences. "Many species of birds migrate south for the winter" is a complete thought, and "They fly thousands of miles to reach warmer climates" is another complete thought. Using a period followed by a capital letter creates two grammatically correct, clear sentences. Choice A creates a comma splice—using only a comma to join two independent clauses, which is grammatically incorrect. A comma alone cannot connect two complete sentences. Choice B incorrectly uses "for" as a coordinating conjunction in this context. While "for" can sometimes connect clauses, here it creates an illogical causal relationship. The sentence suggests birds migrate because they fly thousands of miles, when actually they fly thousands of miles in order to migrate. Choice D uses "but" incorrectly, creating a contradictory relationship between the clauses. There's no contrast between migrating south and flying thousands of miles—the second clause actually explains how the first happens, not opposes it. Remember this strategy: when you see two complete thoughts jammed together, the simplest fix is often to separate them into two sentences with a period. This approach eliminates run-on sentences and comma splices while maintaining clarity.

Question 16

Which sentence is a run-on sentence?

  1. Although the instructions were complicated, I eventually assembled the bookshelf.
  2. The instructions were complicated I eventually assembled the bookshelf anyway. (correct answer)
  3. The instructions were complicated, but I eventually assembled the bookshelf.
  4. The instructions were complicated; however, I eventually assembled the bookshelf.
Explanation: When you encounter questions about run-on sentences, you're being tested on your ability to identify improper sentence construction where two independent clauses are incorrectly joined. A run-on sentence occurs when two complete thoughts (independent clauses) are connected without proper punctuation or conjunctions. Each independent clause could stand alone as a complete sentence, but when improperly joined, they create a run-on. Choice B is correct because it contains two independent clauses—"The instructions were complicated" and "I eventually assembled the bookshelf anyway"—that are simply placed next to each other without any connecting punctuation or conjunction. This creates a run-on sentence. Choice A is incorrect because it properly uses the subordinating conjunction "Although" to make the first clause dependent, creating a complex sentence with correct structure. Choice C is incorrect because it properly connects two independent clauses with a comma and the coordinating conjunction "but." Choice D is incorrect because it uses a semicolon followed by the transitional word "however" with a comma, which is the correct way to join independent clauses with a conjunctive adverb. To spot run-on sentences on the SHSAT, look for two complete thoughts that could stand alone as sentences. If they're connected without proper punctuation (comma + coordinating conjunction, semicolon, or period) or without making one clause dependent, you've found a run-on. Remember that length doesn't determine run-ons—it's all about proper clause connection.

Question 17

What is the best way to combine these two sentences?

Construction on the new bridge was completed ahead of schedule. Traffic congestion has already decreased.

  1. Construction on the new bridge was completed ahead of schedule; as a result, traffic congestion has already decreased. (correct answer)
  2. Construction on the new bridge was completed ahead of schedule traffic congestion has already decreased.
  3. Construction on the new bridge was completed ahead of schedule, as a result, traffic congestion has already decreased.
  4. Construction on the new bridge was completed ahead of schedule, traffic congestion has already decreased.
Explanation: When combining two related sentences, you need to show the logical relationship between ideas and use proper punctuation to create a grammatically correct compound sentence. These two sentences have a clear cause-and-effect relationship: the bridge completion caused the traffic improvement. Choice A correctly combines them by using a semicolon followed by the transitional phrase "as a result." The semicolon properly joins two independent clauses, while "as a result" explicitly shows the causal connection between the bridge completion and reduced congestion. Choice B creates a run-on sentence by jamming two complete sentences together with no punctuation or connecting words. This violates basic sentence structure rules and makes the text difficult to read. Choice C incorrectly uses commas to set off "as a result." When you use transitional phrases like "as a result," "therefore," or "however" to connect two independent clauses, you need a semicolon before the transition, not a comma. The comma creates a comma splice error. Choice D uses a comma to connect two independent clauses without any transitional word. This creates another comma splice, and it also fails to show the logical relationship between the ideas, leaving readers to guess how the sentences connect. Remember this pattern: when combining sentences that show cause and effect, use a semicolon before transitional phrases like "as a result," "therefore," or "consequently." This structure (semicolon + transition + comma) is your go-to formula for showing causal relationships while maintaining proper grammar.

Question 18

Which revision best corrects the comma splice in the sentence below?

The museum's new exhibit is very popular, you should reserve tickets online in advance.

  1. The museum's new exhibit is very popular you should reserve tickets online in advance.
  2. Because the museum's new exhibit is very popular, you should reserve tickets online in advance. (correct answer)
  3. The museum's new exhibit is very popular, and you should reserve tickets online in advance.
  4. The museum's new exhibit is very popular, but you should reserve tickets online in advance.
Explanation: When you encounter a comma splice question, you're dealing with a fundamental sentence structure error where two independent clauses (complete thoughts) are incorrectly joined by only a comma. The original sentence contains two independent clauses: "The museum's new exhibit is very popular" and "you should reserve tickets online in advance." Choice B correctly fixes this error by adding the subordinating conjunction "Because" at the beginning. This transforms the first clause into a dependent clause that cannot stand alone, creating a proper complex sentence with a clear cause-and-effect relationship. The comma now correctly separates the dependent clause from the independent clause. Choice A actually makes the problem worse by removing the comma entirely, creating a run-on sentence where two independent clauses crash together without any punctuation or connecting words. Choice C attempts to fix the splice by adding the coordinating conjunction "and," which would work grammatically, but it creates an illogical relationship—the popularity and the need to reserve tickets aren't simply two related facts, but rather cause and effect. Choice D makes the same structural attempt as C but uses "but," which suggests contrast where none exists, making the sentence confusing and illogical. Remember this pattern: comma splices can be fixed in several ways, but always consider the logical relationship between the ideas. Subordinating conjunctions like "because," "since," and "although" often provide the most precise and meaningful connections between clauses.

Question 19

What is the best way to rewrite the following sentence?

The candidate gave a powerful speech, her poll numbers rose significantly the next day.

  1. The candidate gave a powerful speech her poll numbers rose significantly the next day.
  2. The candidate gave a powerful speech, so her poll numbers rose significantly the next day. (correct answer)
  3. The candidate gave a powerful speech, her poll numbers rising significantly the next day.
  4. The candidate gave a powerful speech, but her poll numbers rose significantly the next day.
Explanation: This question tests your ability to fix comma splices, one of the most common sentence errors on the SHSAT. A comma splice occurs when you incorrectly join two complete sentences (independent clauses) with only a comma. The original sentence contains two independent clauses: "The candidate gave a powerful speech" and "her poll numbers rose significantly the next day." Each could stand alone as a complete sentence, but they're incorrectly connected with just a comma. Choice B correctly fixes this by adding the coordinating conjunction "so" after the comma. The word "so" shows the logical cause-and-effect relationship between the powerful speech and the rising poll numbers. When you use coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so), you can properly join two independent clauses with a comma. Choice A makes the error worse by removing the comma entirely, creating a run-on sentence with no punctuation between the clauses. Choice C attempts to fix the problem by changing "rose" to "rising," but this creates an awkward and unclear construction that doesn't properly show the relationship between the ideas. Choice D uses "but" as the coordinating conjunction, which creates a contradiction since rising poll numbers would be expected after a powerful speech, not surprising. Remember this pattern: when you see two complete thoughts joined by only a comma, look for the answer choice that adds an appropriate coordinating conjunction. Pay attention to which conjunction makes logical sense based on the relationship between the ideas.

Question 20

What is the best way to combine the sentences?

Light pollution obscures the view of the night sky. Many city dwellers have never seen the Milky Way.

  1. Light pollution obscures the view of the night sky; consequently, many city dwellers have never seen the Milky Way. (correct answer)
  2. Light pollution obscures the view of the night sky, many city dwellers have never seen the Milky Way.
  3. Light pollution obscures the view of the night sky, however, many city dwellers have never seen the Milky Way.
  4. Light pollution obscures the view of the night sky, and many city dwellers have never seen the Milky Way.
Explanation: When combining two related sentences, you need to identify the logical relationship between the ideas and choose the appropriate connecting method. Here, the first sentence establishes a cause (light pollution obscures the night sky) and the second presents an effect (city dwellers haven't seen the Milky Way). Choice A correctly uses a semicolon followed by "consequently" to show this cause-and-effect relationship. The semicolon properly separates two complete thoughts, while "consequently" explicitly signals that the second idea results from the first. This creates a clear, logical flow between the ideas. Choice B creates a comma splice—using only a comma to join two independent clauses. This is a serious grammatical error that makes the sentence run-on and confusing. You need either a semicolon, a coordinating conjunction with a comma, or separate sentences. Choice C also commits a comma splice error. While "however" is a transitional word, it cannot be used with just a comma to connect independent clauses. Additionally, "however" shows contrast, but these sentences don't present opposing ideas—they show cause and effect. Choice D uses the coordinating conjunction "and" with a comma, which is grammatically correct. However, "and" simply adds information rather than showing the logical relationship between cause and effect. It doesn't capture the connection as precisely as "consequently." Remember: When combining sentences, first identify the relationship between ideas (cause-effect, contrast, addition, etc.), then choose the connector that best expresses that relationship while following proper punctuation rules.