Question ID 89fbc3eb Question ID 960dec02

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 89fbc3eb ID: 960dec02

The Mission 66 initiative, which was approved by Congress in 1956, represented a major investment in the A recent study tracked the number of bee species present in twenty-seven New York apple orchards over a ten-year
infrastructure of overburdened national ______ it prioritized physical improvements to the parks’ roads, utilities, period. ______ found that when wild growth near an orchard was cleared, the number of different bee species visiting
employee housing, and visitor facilities while also establishing educational programming for the public. the orchard decreased.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. parks and A. Entomologist Heather Grab:

B. parks B. Entomologist, Heather Grab,

C. parks; C. Entomologist Heather Grab

D. parks, D. Entomologist Heather Grab,

ID: 89fbc3eb Answer ID: 960dec02 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between a name and title and
sentence. This choice uses a semicolon to correctly join the first main clause (“The Mission…parks”) and the between a subject and a verb. No punctuation is needed between the proper noun “Heather Grab” and
second main clause that begins with “it.” “entomologist,” the title that describes Grab. Additionally, no punctuation is needed between the sentence’s
subject (“Entomologist Heather Grab”) and the main verb (“found”) that indicates what Grab did.
Choice A is incorrect. When coordinating two longer main clauses such as these, it’s conventional to use a
comma before the coordinating conjunction. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice B is
two main clauses are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice D is incorrect because it results incorrect because no punctuation is needed. Setting the entomologist’s name off with commas suggests that it
in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to join two main could be removed without affecting the coherence of the sentence, which isn’t the case. Choice D is incorrect
clauses. because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb.

Question Difficulty: Medium Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 74ce2f05 Question ID adf210e7

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 74ce2f05 ID: adf210e7

A study led by scientist Rebecca Kirby at the University of Wisconsin–Madison found that black bears that eat human The haiku-like poems of Tomas Tranströmer, which present nature- and dream-influenced images in crisp, spare
13 language, have earned the Swedish poet praise from leading contemporary ______ them Nigerian American essayist
food before hibernation have increased levels of a rare carbon isotope, ______ due to the higher C levels in corn and
cane sugar. Bears with these elevated levels were also found to have much shorter hibernation periods on average. and novelist Teju Cole, who has written that Tranströmer’s works “contain a luminous simplicity.”

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
13 A. writers. Among
A. carbon-13, ( C)
13 B. writers among
B. carbon-13 ( C)
13 C. writers; among
C. carbon-13, ( C),
13 D. writers, among
D. carbon-13 ( C),

ID: adf210e7 Answer

ID: 74ce2f05 Answer
Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between a main clause and a
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary element supplementary phrase. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the main clause
within a sentence. The comma after “(13C)” pairs with the comma after “isotope” to separate the (“The haiku-like…writers”) and the supplementary phrase (“among…Cole”) that specifies a contemporary writer
supplementary element “carbon-13 (13C)” from the rest of the sentence. This supplementary element defines who has praised Tomas Tranströmer’s haiku-like poems.
the “rare carbon isotope,” and the pair of commas indicates that this element could be removed without
affecting the grammatical coherence of the sentence. Choice A is incorrect because it results in a rhetorically unacceptable sentence fragment beginning with
“among.” Choice B is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary between the main clause and the
Choice A is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the supplementary element supplementary phrase with appropriate punctuation. Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used
“carbon-13 (13C)” from the rest of the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate in this way to join the main clause (“The haiku-like…writers”) and the supplementary phrase (“among…Cole”).
punctuation to separate the supplementary element “carbon-13 (13C)” from the rest of the sentence. Choice C is
incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the supplementary element “carbon-13 Question Difficulty: Hard
(13C)” from the rest of the sentence. The comma after “carbon-13” isn’t necessary because the parentheses
around “13C” already separate this element from the rest of the sentence.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID aaa1907f Question ID 7f48b098
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: aaa1907f ID: 7f48b098

To serve local families during the Great Depression, innovative New York City librarian Pura Belpré offered storytelling Photosynthesis, the mechanism by which plants use sunlight to turn carbon dioxide and water into ______ is fueled in
in both English and Spanish, an uncommon ______ celebrated el Día de los Tres Reyes Magos, an important community part by an enzyme called Photosystem II that harvests energy-giving electrons from water molecules.
holiday; and put on puppet shows dramatizing Puerto Rican folktales.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. nutrients
A. practice, at the time
B. nutrients and
B. practice at the time;
C. nutrients,
C. practice, at the time,
D. nutrients—
D. practice at the time,

ID: 7f48b098 Answer

ID: aaa1907f Answer Correct Answer: C
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary element
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of elements in a complex series. within a sentence. The comma after “nutrients” pairs with the comma after “photosynthesis” to separate the
It’s conventional to use a semicolon to separate items in a complex series with internal punctuation, and in supplementary element “the mechanism by which plants use sunlight to turn carbon dioxide and water into
this choice, the semicolon after "time" is conventionally used to separate the first item ("offered…time") and the nutrients” from the rest of the sentence. This supplementary element functions to define the term
second ("celebrated…holiday") in the series of activities that librarian Pura Belpré offered. Moreover, the “photosynthesis,” and the pair of commas indicates that this element could be removed without affecting the
semicolon after "time" matches the semicolon used later to separate the second item ("celebrated...holiday") grammatical coherence of the sentence.
and the third ("and...folktales") in the series.
Choice A is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the supplementary element
Choice A is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the first item and the second from the rest of the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because a conjunction can’t be paired with a comma in this
item in the complex series. Furthermore, a comma isn’t needed between the noun "practice" and the way to separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Choice D is incorrect because a dash
prepositional phrase "at the time" because the prepositional phrase is essential to the full meaning of the can’t be paired with a comma in this way to separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence.
phrase "an uncommon practice at the time." Choice C is incorrect because a comma after "time" doesn’t match
the semicolon used later to separate the second ("celebrated...holiday") and third ("and...folktales") items in the Question Difficulty: Medium
series. Furthermore, a comma isn’t needed between the noun "practice" and the prepositional phrase "at the
time" because the prepositional phrase is essential to the full meaning of the phrase "an uncommon practice
at the time." Choice D is incorrect because a comma after "time" doesn’t match the semicolon used later to
separate the second ("celebrated...holiday") and third ("and...folktales") items in the series.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0f39b19c Question ID ac5536c1

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 0f39b19c ID: ac5536c1

After a spate of illnesses as a child, Wilma Rudolph was told she might never walk again. Defying all odds, Rudolph Beatrix Potter is perhaps best known for writing and illustrating children’s books such as The Tale of Peter Rabbit (1902),
didn’t just walk, she ______ the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, she won both the 100- and 200-meter dashes and but she also dedicated herself to mycology, the study of ______ more than 350 paintings of the fungal species she
clinched first place for her team in the 4x100-meter relay, becoming the first US woman to win three gold medals in a observed in nature and submitting her research on spore germination to the Linnean Society of London.
single Olympics.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. fungi; producing
A. ran—fast—during
B. fungi. Producing
B. ran—fast during
C. fungi producing
C. ran—fast, during
D. fungi, producing
D. ran—fast. During

ID: ac5536c1 Answer

ID: 0f39b19c Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between two supplementary
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this phrases following the coordinate clause (“but she…mycology”). This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the
choice, the period is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence (“Defying…fast”) and another boundary between the supplementary noun phrase (“the study of fungi”) that defines the term “mycology” and
sentence that begins with a supplementary phrase (“During…Olympics”). the supplementary participial phrase (“producing...London”) that provides additional information about the
extent to which Potter dedicated herself to mycology.
Choice A is incorrect. When a dash is present in a sentence (“ran—fast”), it’s not conventional to use another
dash (“fast—during”) to mark the boundary between sentences because it creates a potentially confusing Choice A is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to join two supplementary phrases
sentence. In this context, a period, semicolon, or colon would be clear and more conventional. Choice B is following a coordinate clause. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a rhetorically unacceptable sentence
incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The sentences (“Defying…fast”) and (“during…Olympics”) are fragment beginning with “producing.” Choice C is incorrect. The lack of punctuation results in a sentence that
fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A illogically suggests that the study of fungi is producing more than 350 paintings.
comma can’t be used in this way to mark the boundary between sentences.
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question ID 83898524 Question ID fba5d8d1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 83898524 ID: fba5d8d1

In addition to advocating for South America’s independence in two political treatises, the Cartagena Manifesto and the In a 2016 study, Eastern Washington University psychologist Amani El-Alayli found that, among the study participants
Letter from Jamaica, Simón Bolívar personally led armies against the Spanish, liberating three South American who experienced frisson (a physiological response akin to goosebumps or getting the chills) while listening to music,
territories—New Granada (present-day Colombia and Panama), Venezuela, and Quito (present-day ______ from colonial there was one personality trait that they scored particularly ______ openness to experience.
rule.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. high. On
A. Ecuador,)
B. high on;
B. Ecuador)
C. high on
C. Ecuador),
D. high on:
D. Ecuador)—

ID: fba5d8d1 Answer

ID: 83898524 Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between a main clause and a
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary element supplementary phrase. In this choice, a colon is correctly used to mark the boundary between the main clause
within a sentence. The dash after “Ecuador” and the closing parenthesis pairs with the dash after “territories” ("there...on") and the supplementary phrase ("openness to experience") and to introduce the information that
to separate the supplementary element (“New…Ecuador”) from the rest of the sentence. The supplementary identifies which personality trait participants scored especially high on.
element specifies the three South American territories that Simón Bolívar liberated, and the pair of dashes
indicates that this element could be removed without affecting the grammatical coherence of the sentence. Choice A is incorrect because it results in a rhetorically unacceptable sentence fragment beginning with "on"
and separates a necessary preposition from the clause beginning with "there." Choice B is incorrect because a
Choice A is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the supplementary element semicolon can’t be used in this way to join the main clause ("there...on") and the supplementary phrase
from the rest of the sentence. Furthermore, punctuation isn’t needed between “Ecuador” and the closing ("openness to experience"). A semicolon is conventionally used to join two main clauses, whereas a colon is
parenthesis. Choice B is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the conventionally used to introduce an element that explains or amplifies the information in the preceding
supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Choice C is incorrect because a comma can’t be paired clause, making the colon the better choice in this context. Choice C is incorrect because it fails to mark the
with a dash to separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. boundary between the main clause ("there...on") and the supplementary phrase ("openness to experience").

Question Difficulty: Hard Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 886dc9f9 Question ID 59a246dc

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 886dc9f9 ID: 59a246dc

On July 23, 1854, a clipper ship called the Flying Cloud entered San Francisco ______ left New York Harbor under the When external forces are applied to common glass made from silicates, energy builds up around minuscule defects in
guidance of Captain Josiah Perkins Creesy and his wife, navigator Eleanor Creesy, a mere 89 days and 8 hours earlier, the material, resulting in fractures. Recently, engineer Erkka Frankberg of Tampere University in Finland used the
the celebrated ship set a record that would stand for 135 years. chemical ______ to make a glassy solid that can withstand higher strain than silicate glass can before fracturing.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Bay and having A. compound, aluminum oxide

B. Bay. Having B. compound aluminum oxide,

C. Bay, having C. compound, aluminum oxide,

D. Bay having D. compound aluminum oxide

ID: 886dc9f9 Answer ID: 59a246dc Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this choice, Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of punctuation around noun phrases. No
the period after “Bay” is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence (“On…Bay”) and another punctuation is needed because the noun phrase “aluminum oxide” is a restrictive appositive, meaning that it
sentence that begins with a supplementary phrase (“Having…years”). Here, the supplementary phrase provides essential identifying information about the noun phrase before it, “the chemical compound,” and thus
beginning with “having” modifies the subject of the second sentence, “the celebrated ship.” doesn’t require punctuation around it.

Choice A is incorrect. Without a comma preceding it, the conjunction “and” can’t be used in this way to join Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed. Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is
sentences. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to needed. Choice C is incorrect because the noun phrase “aluminum oxide” is a restrictive appositive. Setting
join two sentences. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The sentences (“On…Bay” and the phrase off with punctuation suggests that it could be removed without affecting the coherence of the
“having…years”) are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. sentence, which isn’t the case.

Question Difficulty: Hard Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6ea8c23f Question ID aab74a3b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 6ea8c23f ID: aab74a3b

In 2018, a team of researchers led by Dr. Caitlin Whalen compiled every available measurement of ocean mixing rates Researcher Lin Zhi developed a process for increasing the tensile strength—measured in gigapascals, or GPa—of
from the past two decades. With this novel data set, the team was able to determine how current-driven mixing varies silkworm ______ dissolving and reweaving the silk in a solution of iron metal ions, zinc, and sugar, Zhi increased the
across ______ and what impact it has on the distribution of heat and nutrients in the ocean. amount of force required to stretch it from approximately 0.5 GPa to 2 GPa.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. regions, A. silk, by

B. regions: B. silk by

C. regions; C. silk and by

D. regions D. silk. By

ID: 6ea8c23f Answer ID: aab74a3b Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between coordinates in a sentence. Choice D is the best answer. The independent clauses "researcher Lin Zhi…silk" and "by dissolving…2 GPa" can
The two elements "how…regions" and "what…ocean" work together as coordinates to complete the description be grammatically separated by a period. They can stand alone as sentences, and this is the only choice that
of what the team was able to determine. Because there are only two coordinates in this case (as opposed to a lets them do that.
series of three or more), no punctuation is needed between them.
Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a grammar error called a comma splice. "Researcher Lin Zhi…silk"
Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the coordinates "how…regions" and "what… and "by dissolving…2 GPa" are both independent clauses. They need to either be separated with punctuation
ocean." Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the coordinates "how…regions" and like a period or a semicolon, or they need to be connected by a comma and a coordinating conjunction like
"what…ocean." Choice C is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the coordinates "how…regions" "and." A comma alone isn’t enough. Choice B is incorrect. This choice results in a grammar error called a run-
and "what…ocean." on sentence. "Researcher Lin Zhi…silk" and "by dissolving…2 GPa" are both independent clauses. They need to
either be separated with punctuation like a period or a semicolon, or they need to be connected by a comma
Question Difficulty: Hard and a coordinating conjunction like "and." Choice C is incorrect. This choice results in a grammar error called
a run-on sentence. "Researcher Lin Zhi…silk" and "by dissolving…2 GPa" are both independent clauses. The
coordinating conjunction "and" isn’t enough to link them by itself. We need a comma, too.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a9e5b788 Question ID cdbbbf94

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: a9e5b788 ID: cdbbbf94

In discussing Mary Shelley’s 1818 epistolary novel Frankenstein, literary theorist Gayatri Spivak directs the reader’s As British scientist Peter Whibberley has observed, “the Earth is not a very good timekeeper.” Earth’s slightly irregular
attention to the character of Margaret Saville. As Spivak points out, Saville is not the protagonist of Shelley’s ______ as rotation rate means that measurements of time must be periodically adjusted. Specifically, an extra “leap second” (the
the recipient of the letters that frame the book’s narrative, she’s the “occasion” of it. 86,401st second of the day) is ______ time based on the planet’s rotation lags a full nine-tenths of a second behind time
kept by precise atomic clocks.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. novel
A. added, whenever
B. novel,
B. added; whenever
C. novel; rather,
C. added. Whenever
D. novel, rather,
D. added whenever

ID: a9e5b788 Answer

Correct Answer: C ID: cdbbbf94 Answer
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a
sentence. This choice correctly uses a semicolon to join a main clause (“Saville...novel”) and a second main Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a verb and a preposition.
clause (“she’s...it”) preceded by supplementary elements (“rather...narrative”). When, as in this case, a verb (“is added”) is immediately followed by a preposition (“whenever”), no punctuation
is needed.
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two main clauses are fused without
punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. Without a Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the verb and the preposition. Choice B is
conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to join two main clauses. Choice D is incorrect incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the verb and the preposition. Choice C is incorrect
because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, the comma after “novel” can’t be used because no punctuation is needed between the verb and the preposition.
in this way to join the two main clauses.
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID e76e74e8 Question ID 083a35dc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: e76e74e8 ID: 083a35dc

Over twenty years ago, in a landmark experiment in the psychology of choice, professor Sheena Iyengar set up a jam- Po’Pay was a Tewa leader from Ohkay Owingeh, a pueblo located about twenty-five miles north of present-day Santa
tasting booth at a grocery store. The number of jams available for tasting ______ some shoppers had twenty-four Fe, New Mexico. He was instrumental in organizing the Pueblo Revolt of ______ as a result of his leadership, the Spanish
different options, others only six. Interestingly, the shoppers with fewer jams to choose from purchased more jam. colonizers were expelled from the region for a time.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. varied: A. 1680

B. varied, B. 1680 and

C. varied, while C. 1680,

D. varied while D. 1680, and

ID: e76e74e8 Answer ID: 083a35dc Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of a colon within a sentence. In this choice, Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a
the colon is used in a conventional way to introduce the following description of how the number of jams sentence. This choice correctly uses a comma and the coordinating conjunction “and” to join the first main
available varied. clause (“He…1680”) and the second main clause (“as…time”).

Choice B is incorrect because it creates a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to join two main Choice A is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two main clauses are fused without
clauses (“the number…varied” and “some…six”). Choice C is incorrect because it results in an illogical and punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice B is incorrect because when coordinating two longer main clauses
confusing sentence. Using the conjunction “while” to join the main clause (“the number…varied”) with the such as these, it’s conventional to use a comma before the coordinating conjunction. Choice C is incorrect
following clause’s description of the number of jams available suggests that the variation in the number of because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to
jams is in contrast to some shoppers having twenty-four options. Choice D is incorrect because it results in an join two main clauses.
illogical and confusing sentence. Using “while” in this way suggests that the number of jams available varied
during the time in which some shoppers had twenty-four options and others had six. The sentence makes Question Difficulty: Medium
clear, however, that what follows “varied” is a description of the variation, not a separate, simultaneous
occurrence.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 145d5ca7 Question ID be34a3df

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 145d5ca7 ID: be34a3df

Gathering accurate data on water flow in the United States is challenging because of the country’s millions of miles of In 2008, two years after the death of science fiction writer Octavia Butler, the Huntington Library in ______ received a
______ the volume and speed of water at any given location can vary drastically over time. collection of more than 8,000 items, including Butler’s private notes, research materials, manuscripts, photos, and
drawings. Today, the Octavia E. Butler Collection is one of the most researched archives at the library.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. waterways and the fact that,
A. California,
B. waterways, and the fact that,
B. California:
C. waterways, and, the fact that
C. California—
D. waterways and the fact that
D. California

ID: 145d5ca7 Answer

Correct Answer: D ID: be34a3df Answer
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation within two coordinated noun phrases.
When, as in this case, a noun phrase (“the country’s millions of miles of waterways”) is coordinated with Choice D is the best answer. No punctuation should separate the subject of the sentence (“the Huntington
another noun phrase (“the fact”) followed by an integrated relative clause (“that the volume...time”), no Library in California”) from its verb (“received”).
punctuation is needed.
Choice A is incorrect. No punctuation should separate the subject of the sentence (“the Huntington Library in
Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed. Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is California”) from its verb (“received”). Choice B is incorrect. No punctuation should separate the subject of the
needed. Choice C is incorrect because no punctuation is needed. sentence (“the Huntington Library in California”) from its verb (“received”). Choice C is incorrect. No
punctuation should separate the subject of the sentence (“the Huntington Library in California”) from its verb
Question Difficulty: Medium (“received”).

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 73a6603c Question ID 8f6d6ae6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 73a6603c ID: 8f6d6ae6

On sunny days, dark rooftops absorb solar energy and convert it to unwanted heat, raising the surrounding air ______ a Archaeologists have estimated that the pre-Columbian Native American city of Cahokia, located across the Mississippi
light-colored covering to an existing dark roof, either by attaching prefabricated reflective sheets or spraying on a River from modern-day St. Louis, Missouri, had as many as 20,000 inhabitants in the year 1150 ______ it one of the
paint-like coating, helps combat this effect. largest cities in North America at the time.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. temperature; by adding A. CE making

B. temperature, adding B. CE. Making

C. temperature. Adding C. CE, making

D. temperature by adding D. CE; making

ID: 73a6603c Answer ID: 8f6d6ae6 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this choice, Choice C is the best answer. The phrase “making…at the time” provides additional information about Cahokia
the period is used correctly to mark the boundary between the first sentence (“On…temperature”) and the that’s not required for the sentence to make sense or function grammatically. As a nonessential supplement,
second sentence (“Adding…effect”). The gerund phrase beginning with “adding” is the subject of the second this phrase should be separated from the rest of the sentence with a comma.
sentence, and the verb phrase “helps combat this effect” describes what adding a light-colored covering can
do. Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on sentence. The nonessential descriptive aside “making…at
the time” needs to be separated from the rest of the sentence with a comma. Choice B is incorrect. This choice
Choice A is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to join the sentence “On...temperature” and results in a sentence fragment. “Making…at the time” doesn’t have a subject and can’t stand on its own as a
the supplementary phrases that follow. Doing so leaves the verb phrase “helps combat” without a subject and sentence. Thus, it can’t be separated from the rest of the sentence with a period. Choice D is incorrect. This
thus results in a grammatically unconventional sentence. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma choice results in a punctuation error. “Making…at the time” doesn’t have a subject and can’t stand on its own
splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to mark the boundary between sentences. Choice D is incorrect. as an independent clause. Since a semicolon can only link two independent clauses, using one here creates an
This choice results in a confusing and illogical sentence that suggests that adding a light-colored covering to error.
an existing dark roof raises the temperature of the surrounding air. Furthermore, it creates ambiguity by
leaving the verb phrase “helps combat” without a subject (so it isn’t clear what helps combat the effect). Question Difficulty: Medium

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c06af4d8 Question ID 2b512e65

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: c06af4d8 ID: 2b512e65

Sociologist Alton Okinaka sits on the review board tasked with adding new sites to the Hawai‘i Register of Historic Eli Eisenberg, a genetics expert at Tel Aviv University in Israel, recently discovered that ______ have a special genetic
Places, which includes Pi‘ilanihale Heiau and the ‘Ōpaeka‘a Road Bridge. Okinaka doesn’t make such decisions ______ all ability called RNA editing that confers evolutionary advantages.
historical designations must be approved by a group of nine other experts from the fields of architecture, archaeology,
history, and Hawaiian culture. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. cephalopods, ocean dwellers that include the squid, the octopus, and the cuttlefish
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
B. cephalopods—ocean dwellers—that include the squid, the octopus, and the cuttlefish,
A. single-handedly, however;
C. cephalopods, ocean dwellers that include: the squid, the octopus, and the cuttlefish,
B. single-handedly; however,
D. cephalopods—ocean dwellers that include the squid, the octopus, and the cuttlefish—
C. single-handedly, however,

D. single-handedly however
ID: 2b512e65 Answer
Correct Answer: D
ID: c06af4d8 Answer
Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Rationale Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary element
within a sentence. In this choice, the dash after “cephalopods” pairs with the dash after “cuttlefish” to clearly
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary word or separate the supplementary element “ocean dwellers that include the squid, the octopus, and the cuttlefish”
phrase between two main clauses. This choice correctly uses a comma to separate the supplementary adverb from the rest of the sentence. This supplementary element functions to explain what cephalopds are, and the
“however” from the preceding main clause (“Okinaka doesn’t…single-handedly”) and a semicolon to join the pair of dashes indicates that this element could be removed without affecting the grammatical coherence of
next main clause (“all…culture”) to the rest of the sentence. Further, placing the semicolon after “however” the sentence.
correctly indicates that the information in the preceding main clause (Okinaka doesn’t make such decisions
single-handedly) is contrary to what might be assumed from the information in the previous sentence Choice A is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the supplementary element
(Okinaka sits on the review board that adds new sites to the Hawaii Register of Historic Places). that explains what cephalopods are from the rest of the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because it fails to use
appropriate punctuation to separate the supplementary element that explains what cephalopods are from the
Choice B is incorrect because placing the semicolon after “single-handedly” and the comma after “however” rest of the sentence. Choice C is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the
illogically indicates that the information in the next main clause (all historical designations must be approved supplementary element that explains what cephalopods are from the rest of the sentence.
by a group of experts) is contrary to the information in the previous clause (Okinaka doesn’t make such
decisions single-handedly). Choice C is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. Commas can’t be used Question Difficulty: Medium
in this way to punctuate a supplementary word or phrase between two main clauses. Choice D is incorrect
because it results in a run-on sentence. The two main clauses are fused without punctuation and/or a
conjunction.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 870ae7ec Question ID fcaff694
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 870ae7ec ID: fcaff694

Detroit natives Timothy Paule and Nicole Lindsey have combined their two passions, Detroit and beekeeping, to The city of Pompeii, which was buried in ash following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, continues to be
improve the health of their city’s flowers and other vegetation. In 2017, the couple converted a vacant lot in the city studied by archaeologists. Unfortunately, as ______ attest, archaeological excavations have disrupted ash deposits at the
into an ______ in the years that followed they acquired nine additional lots and established more than 35 hives. site, causing valuable information about the eruption to be lost.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. apiary, A. researchers, Roberto Scandone and Christopher Kilburn,

B. apiary, and B. researchers, Roberto Scandone and Christopher Kilburn

C. apiary and C. researchers Roberto Scandone and Christopher Kilburn

D. apiary D. researchers Roberto Scandone, and Christopher Kilburn

ID: 870ae7ec Answer ID: fcaff694 Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. Both clauses in this sentence could stand alone as complete sentences, which Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a restrictive coordinated noun
means they are both independent clauses. This choice uses a comma plus a coordinating conjunction to link phrase. No punctuation is needed within or around the coordinated noun phrase “researchers Roberto
them together, which is one of the correct ways to link two independent clauses. Scandone and Christopher Kilburn” because it would create an illogical separation between the noun
“researchers” and the coordinated noun phrase “Roberto Scandone and Christopher Kilburn.”
Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on sentence error. Both clauses in this sentence could stand
alone as complete sentences, which means they are both independent clauses. A comma by itself is not Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed. Placing a pair of commas around the coordinated
enough punctuation to link two independent clauses. Choice C is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on noun phrase “Roberto Scandone and Christopher Kilburn” creates an illogical separation between the noun
sentence error. Both clauses in this sentence could stand alone as complete sentences, which means they are “researchers” and the aforementioned coordinated noun phrase. In this case, it illogically suggests that
both independent clauses. Independent clauses can only be linked in a few ways, including with a comma researchers in general bear the specific names Roberto Scandone and Christopher Kilburn. Choice B is
plus a coordinating conjunction. This choice uses the coordinating conjunction “and,” but it is missing the incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the noun “researchers” and the coordinated noun phrase
comma beforehand. Choice D is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on sentence error. Both clauses in this “Roberto Scandone and Christopher Kilburn.” Choice D is incorrect because no punctuation is needed within
sentence could stand alone as complete sentences, which means they are both independent clauses. the coordinated noun phrase “Roberto Scandone and Christopher Kilburn.”
Independent clauses need to have certain kinds of punctuation marks between them. This choice doesn’t use
any punctuation between the two clauses. Question Difficulty: Medium

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 790fc366 Question ID 62120607

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 790fc366 ID: 62120607

Using satellite remote sensing, Dr. Catherine Nakalembe, director of NASA’s Harvest Africa initiative, gathers important From afar, African American fiber artist Bisa Butler’s portraits look like paintings, their depictions of human faces,
data on crop health. Nakalembe doesn’t just compile the ______ she also shares her findings with African farmers, bodies, and clothing so intricate that it seems only a fine brush could have rendered them. When viewed up close,
enabling them to make data-driven decisions about managing critical food crops. however, the portraits reveal themselves to be ______ stitching barely visible among the thousands of pieces of printed,
microcut fabric.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. information, though;
A. quilts, and the
B. information, though,
B. quilts, the
C. information; though
C. quilts; the
D. information though,
D. quilts. The

ID: 790fc366 Answer

Correct Answer: A ID: 62120607 Answer
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. This choice uses a semicolon to join two independent clauses ("Nakalembe
doesn’t just…though" and "she also shares..."). This choice also appropriately includes "though" in the first Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between a main clause and a
clause, where it logically belongs. supplementary phrase. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the main clause
(“the portraits...quilts”) and the supplementary noun phrase (“the stitching...fabric”) that provides a further
Choice B is incorrect. This choice results in a grammar error called a comma splice. It incorrectly joins two description of how the portraits can be identified as quilts.
independent clauses with only a comma instead of a comma and a coordinating conjunction like "and" or
"but." "Though" is a transition word, but it’s not a coordinating conjunction. Choice C is incorrect. This choice Choice A is incorrect. A comma and the conjunction “and” can’t be used in this way to join a main clause and a
results in a punctuation error. A semicolon can only be used to link two independent clauses. However, if supplementary noun phrase. Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to join a main
"though" is included in the second clause, it turns the second clause into a dependent clause, so a semicolon clause and a supplementary noun phrase. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a rhetorically
can’t be used after "information." Choice D is incorrect. This choice results in a grammar error called a comma unacceptable sentence fragment beginning with “the stitching.”
splice. It incorrectly joins two independent clauses with only a comma instead of a comma and a coordinating
conjunction like "and" or "but." Question Difficulty: Hard

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2bb7416a Question ID b0a525be
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 2bb7416a ID: b0a525be

In paleontology, the term “Elvis taxon” gets applied to a newly identified living species that was once presumed to be Santa Clara Pueblo artist Roxanne Swentzell’s sculpture Mud Woman Rolls On consists of five human figures made of
extinct. Like an Elvis impersonator who might bear a striking resemblance to the late musical icon Elvis Presley himself, clay and plant fiber and arranged in descending size; each figure holds the smaller one in front of it. The arrangement
an Elvis taxon is not the real thing, ______ is a misidentified look-alike. of the figures, according to ______ represents her idea that “we all come from the Earth, generation after generation.”

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. however but it A. Swentzell

B. however it B. Swentzell,

C. however, it C. Swentzell:

D. however. It D. Swentzell—

ID: 2bb7416a Answer ID: b0a525be Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The clause “Like an Elvis impersonator…real thing” and the clause “it is…look- Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “according to Swentzell” is an aside that interrupts the flow of the
alike” are both independent clauses, so making them into two separate sentences is grammatically correct. sentence, so it needs to be separated from the sentence with a pair of matching punctuation marks: two
commas, two dashes, or a pair of parentheses. We already have a comma before “according,” so we must add a
Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a run-on sentence error. The clause “Like an Elvis impersonator…real comma after “Swentzell.” .
thing” and the clause “it is…look-alike” are both independent clauses, so they need to be separated with at least
a comma + a coordinating conjunction. This choice provides the coordinating conjunction “but,” but it’s Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. The phrase “according to Swentzell” is an aside
missing a comma. Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a run-on sentence error. The clause “Like an Elvis that interrupts the flow of the sentence, so it needs to be separated from the sentence with a pair of matching
impersonator…real thing” and the clause “it is…look-alike” are both independent clauses, so they need to be punctuation marks: one before and one after the phrase. Choice C is incorrect. This choice creates a
separated with a semicolon, a colon, a dash, a period, or a comma + a coordinating conjunction. Choice C is punctuation error. “The arrangement of the figures, according to Swentzell” is not an independent clause, so it
incorrect. This choice creates a run-on sentence error. The clause “Like an Elvis impersonator…real thing” and can’t come before a colon. Choice D is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. The phrase
the clause “it is…look-alike” are both independent clauses, so they need to be separated with at least a comma “according to Swentzell” is an aside that interrupts the flow of the sentence, so it needs to be separated from
+ a coordinating conjunction. This choice provides a comma, but it’s missing a coordinating conjunction. the sentence with a pair of matching punctuation marks. We already have a comma at the beginning, so we
have to use another comma here to match. We can’t just switch to a dash! .
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID eef91a50 Question ID 01a32c84

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: eef91a50 ID: 01a32c84

Nine months before Rosa Parks made history by refusing to comply with the segregated seating policy on a The first computerized spreadsheet, Dan Bricklin’s VisiCalc, improved financial recordkeeping not only by providing
Montgomery, Alabama, bus, a fifteen-year-old Montgomery girl named Claudette Colvin was arrested for the same users with an easy means of adjusting data in spreadsheets but also by automatically updating all calculations that
______ to some historians, Colvin’s arrest led to Parks’s action and eventually to the desegregation of Montgomery’s bus were dependent on these ______ to VisiCalc’s release, changing a paper spreadsheet often required redoing the entire
system. sheet by hand, a process that could take days.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. offense. According A. adjustments prior

B. offense, according B. adjustments, prior

C. offense according C. adjustments. Prior

D. offense and according D. adjustments and prior

ID: eef91a50 Answer ID: 01a32c84 Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. “Nine months…offense” and “according to…system” are both independent clauses. Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this choice,
Separating them with a period and turning them into their own sentences is the only grammatically correct the period is used correctly to mark the boundary between the first sentence (“The...adjustments”) and the
choice among the provided options. second sentence (“Prior...days”). Because the adverbial phrase beginning with “prior” indicates when changing
a spreadsheet required redoing the sheet by hand, that phrase belongs with the second sentence.
Choice B is incorrect. This choice results in a comma splice error, which is a punctuation error that occurs
when two independent clauses are joined by only a comma. “Nine months…offense” and “according to… Choice A is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. Two sentences are fused without punctuation
system” are both independent clauses, so they need to be either joined by a semicolon, joined by a comma and and/or a conjunction. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this
a coordinating conjunction, or separated by a period. Choice C is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on way to mark the boundary between sentences. Choice D is incorrect. Without a comma preceding it, the
sentence, which occurs when two independent clauses are joined without punctuation. “Nine months… conjunction “and” can’t be used in this way to join the sentences.
offense” and “according to…system” are both independent clauses, so they need to be either joined by a
semicolon, joined by a comma and a coordinating conjunction, or separated by a period. Choice D is incorrect. Question Difficulty: Medium
This choice results in a run-on sentence, which occurs when two independent clauses are joined without
punctuation. “Nine months…offense” and “according to…system” are independent clauses, so we would need to
put a comma before the coordinating conjunction “and” to join them properly.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 548f4956 Question ID 2c84f96a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 548f4956 ID: 2c84f96a

It is generally true that technological change is a linear process, in which once-useful technologies are replaced by new In 2017, artists Isabel and Ruben Toledo redesigned the costumes and sets for The Miami City Ballet’s production of
and better ______ the reawakening of interest in the steam engine (from advocates of carbon-neutral rail travel) The ______ to reviewers, the Toledos’ designs helped infuse the production with elements of Miami’s Latin American
reminds us that ostensibly obsolete technologies may be brought back into service to address society’s changing culture.
needs.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. Nutcracker according,
A. ones, even so;
B. Nutcracker, according
B. ones even so,
C. Nutcracker according
C. ones; even so,
D. Nutcracker. According
D. ones, even so,

ID: 2c84f96a Answer

ID: 548f4956 Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a choice, the period is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence (“In 2017...Nutcracker”) and
sentence. This choice uses a semicolon in a conventional way to join the first main clause (“It is…ones”) and another (“According...culture”). The supplementary element “according to reviewers” modifies the main clause
the second main clause (“even so…needs”). Furthermore, the placement of the semicolon after “ones” indicates of the second sentence (“the Toledos’...culture”).
that the supplementary phrase “even so” modifies the following clause (“the reawakening...needs”), resulting in
the most logical and grammatically complete sentence. With this punctuation, the sentence logically indicates Choice A is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The sentences are fused without punctuation
that the recent interest in an old technology like steam engines is despite the fact that technological change and/or a conjunction. Furthermore, no punctuation is needed within the supplementary element “according to
typically seeks out new technologies. reviewers.” Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to
mark the boundary between sentences. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a confusing and illogical sentence. Placing the semicolon after “so” sentences are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction.
indicates that the supplementary element “even so” modifies the first clause of the sentence, which doesn’t
make sense in this context. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. It fails to mark the Question Difficulty: Medium
boundary between the two main clauses with appropriate punctuation. Choice D is incorrect because it results
in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to join the two main
clauses of the sentence.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 4ba99a6f Question ID db24ecc9

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 4ba99a6f ID: db24ecc9

Seneca sculptor Marie Watt’s blanket art comes in a range of shapes and sizes. In 2004, Watt sewed strips of blankets The Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden in Norway and the Jardim Botânico of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil are two of many
together to craft a 10-by-13-inch ______ in 2014, she arranged folded blankets into two large stacks and then cast them botanical gardens around the world dedicated to growing diverse plant ______ fostering scientific research; and
in bronze, creating two curving 18-foot-tall blue-bronze pillars. educating the public about plant conservation.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. sampler later, A. species, both native and nonnative,

B. sampler; B. species, both native and nonnative;

C. sampler, C. species; both native and nonnative,

D. sampler, later, D. species both native and nonnative,

ID: 4ba99a6f Answer ID: db24ecc9 Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of items in a complex series (a
sentence. This choice uses a semicolon in a conventional way to join the first main clause (“In 2004…sampler”) series including internal punctuation). The semicolon after “nonnative” is correctly used to separate the first
and the second main clause (“in 2014…pillars”). item (“growing diverse plant species, both native and nonnative”) and the second item (“fostering scientific
research”) in the series of things that botanical gardens are dedicated to. Further, the comma after “species” is
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t correctly used to separate the noun phrase “diverse plant species” and the supplementary phrase “both native
be used in this way to join two main clauses. The word “later” is an adverb and cannot be used to join two main and nonnative” that modifies it.
clauses unless it is preceded by a conjunction. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a comma splice.
Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to join two main clauses. Choice D is Choice A is incorrect because a comma (specifically, the comma after “nonnative”) can’t be used in this way to
incorrect because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in separate items in a complex series. Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to
this way to join two main clauses. The word “later” is an adverb and cannot be used to join two main clauses separate the noun phrase “diverse plant species” and the supplementary phrase “both native and nonnative”
unless it is preceded by a conjunction. that modifies it. Further, a comma can’t be used in this way to separate items in a complex series. Choice D is
incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the noun phrase “diverse plant species”
Question Difficulty: Medium and the supplementary phrase “both native and nonnative” that modifies it. Further, a comma can’t be used in
this way to separate items in a complex series.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0fa289a7 Question ID f30a478e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 0fa289a7 ID: f30a478e

In 1955, Indian Bengali filmmaker Satyajit Ray released his first movie, Pather ______ quiet black-and-white drama about A study published by Rice University geoscientist Ming Tang in 2019 offers a new explanation for the origin of Earth’s
a family in rural India, Ray’s film was quite different from the loud, colorful action-romance movies that were popular at ______ structures called arcs, towering ridges that form when a dense oceanic plate subducts under a less dense
the time. continental plate, melts in the mantle below, and then rises and bursts through the continental crust above.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Panchali a A. continents geological

B. Panchali, which was a B. continents: geological

C. Panchali, a C. continents; geological

D. Panchali. A D. continents. Geological

ID: 0fa289a7 Answer ID: f30a478e Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between a main clause and a
choice, the period is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence ("In…Panchali") and another supplementary phrase. In this choice, a colon is correctly used to mark the boundary between the main clause
("A quiet…time"). The phrase beginning with "a quiet" modifies the subject of the next sentence, "Ray’s film." (“A study…continents”) and the supplementary phrase (“geological…above”) and to introduce the following
explanation of the origin of Earth’s continents.
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The sentences are fused without punctuation
and/or a conjunction. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this Choice A is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary between the main clause (“A study…continents”)
way to mark the boundary between sentences. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A and the supplementary phrase (“geological…above”) with appropriate punctuation. Choice C is incorrect
comma can’t be used in this way to mark the boundary between sentences. because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to join the main clause (“A study…continents”) and the
supplementary phrase (“geological…above”). A semicolon is conventionally used to join two main clauses,
Question Difficulty: Hard whereas a colon is conventionally used to introduce an element that explains or amplifies the information in
the preceding clause, making it the better choice in this context. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a
rhetorically unacceptable sentence fragment beginning with “geological.”

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 67667d72 Question ID b6560e5a

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 67667d72 ID: b6560e5a

Humans were long thought to have begun occupying the Peruvian settlement of Machu Picchu between 1440 and Materials scientist Marie-Agathe Charpagne and her colleagues believed they could improve on the multicomponent
1450 CE. However, a team led by anthropologist Dr. Richard Burger used accelerator mass spectrometry to uncover alloy NiCoCr, an equal-proportions mixture of nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and chromium (Cr), by replacing chromium with
evidence that it was occupied ______ 1420 CE, according to Burger, humans were likely inhabiting the area. ruthenium ______ the alloy that resulted, NiCoRu, turned out to be an unsuitable replacement for NiCoCr.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. earlier. In A. (Ru)

B. earlier, in B. (Ru) but

C. earlier, which in C. (Ru),

D. earlier in D. (Ru), but

ID: 67667d72 Answer ID: b6560e5a Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses. This choice
choice, the period is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence (“However...earlier”) and correctly uses a comma and the coordinating conjunction “but” to join the first main clause (“Materials…Ru”)
another (“In...area”). The supplementary phrase “in 1420 CE” modifies “humans,” the subject of the third and the second main clause (“the alloy…NiCoCr”).
sentence.
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two main clauses are fused without
Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to mark the punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice B is incorrect because when coordinating two longer main clauses
boundary between sentences. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be such as these, it’s conventional to use a comma before the coordinating conjunction. Choice C is incorrect
used in this way to mark the boundary between sentences. Moreover, the subordinating conjunction “which” because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to
creates a confusing and illogical sentence that suggests that the supplementary phrase beginning with “in” join two main clauses.
modifies the previous information (“However...earlier”) rather than the information that follows. Choice D is
incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The sentences (“However...earlier” and “in...area”) are fused Question Difficulty: Medium
without punctuation and/or a conjunction.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 432b1ede Question ID 267a13e2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 432b1ede ID: 267a13e2

The forty-seven geothermal springs of Arkansas’ Hot Springs National Park are sourced via a process known as natural In 2010, archaeologist Noel Hidalgo Tan was visiting the twelfth-century temple of Angkor Wat in Cambodia when he
groundwater recharge, in which rainwater percolates downward through the earth—in this case, the porous rocks of noticed markings of red paint on the temple ______ the help of digital imaging techniques, he discovered the markings
the hills around Hot ______ collect in a subterranean basin. to be part of an elaborate mural containing over 200 paintings.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Springs to A. walls, with

B. Springs: to B. walls with

C. Springs—to C. walls so with

D. Springs, to D. walls. With

ID: 432b1ede Answer ID: 267a13e2 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary element Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this
within a sentence. The dash after “Springs” pairs with the dash after “earth” to separate the supplementary choice, the period after “walls” is used correctly to mark the boundary between the first sentence (“In...walls”)
element “in this case, the porous rocks of the hills around Hot Springs” from the rest of the sentence. and the second sentence (“With…techniques”), which starts with a supplementary phrase.

Choice A is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the supplementary element Choice A is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to mark the
from the rest of the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because a colon can’t be paired with a dash in this way to boundary between sentences. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The sentences
separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Choice D is incorrect because a comma (“In...walls” and “with...paintings”) are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice C is incorrect.
can’t be paired with a dash in this way to separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Without a comma preceding it, the conjunction “so” can’t be used in this way to join sentences.

Question Difficulty: Medium Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 403d7bb5 Question ID 6b49f5f1

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 403d7bb5 ID: 6b49f5f1

According to Naomi Nakayama of the University of Edinburgh, the reason seeds from a dying dandelion appear to In 1727, dramatist Lewis Theobald presented a new play, Double Falsehood, at a London theater. Theobald claimed that
float in the air while ______ is that their porous plumes enhance drag, allowing the seeds to stay airborne long enough his drama was based on a little-known play by William Shakespeare, Cardenio. Many, including poet Alexander Pope,
for the wind to disperse them throughout the surrounding area. were ______ historians have determined that Shakespeare’s company did perform a play called Cardenio in 1613.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. falling, A. skeptical but

B. falling: B. skeptical, but

C. falling; C. skeptical,

D. falling D. skeptical

ID: 403d7bb5 Answer ID: 6b49f5f1 Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The word “falling” occurs in the middle of a clause and isn’t part of a supplement, Choice B is the best answer. There are two independent clauses in the sentence, each with a subject and a
so we don’t need any punctuation after it. We can see this more clearly if we simplify the rest of the sentence: verb: "many...were skeptical" and "historians have determined…." These clauses can be grammatically joined
“The reason seeds appear to float while falling is that their plumes enhance drag.” . by a comma and the coordinating conjunction "but."

Choice A is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on sentence, which occurs when two independent clauses
English. The word “falling” occurs in the middle of a clause and isn’t part of a supplement, so we don’t need are joined without punctuation. Two independent clauses can’t be joined by just the coordinating conjunction
any punctuation after it. We can see this more clearly if we simplify the sentence: “The reason seeds appear to "but." A comma would also be required. Choice C is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error called a
float while falling is that their plumes enhance drag.” . Choice B is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in comma splice. This sentence contains two independent clauses ("Many…were skeptical" and "historians have
a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard English. The word “falling” occurs in the middle of a determined…"). A comma alone can’t join two independent clauses. That requires a comma and a coordinating
clause and isn’t part of a supplement, so we don’t need any punctuation after it. We can see this more clearly if conjunction. Choice D is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on sentence, which occurs when two
we simplify the sentence: “The reason seeds appear to float while falling is that their plumes enhance drag.” . independent clauses are joined without punctuation. This sentence contains two independent clauses
Choice C is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard ("Many…were skeptical" and "historians have determined…"), which need to be either joined by a semicolon,
English. The word “falling” occurs in the middle of a clause and isn’t part of a supplement, so we don’t need joined by a comma and a coordinating conjunction, or separated by a period.
any punctuation after it. We can see this more clearly if we simplify the sentence: “The reason seeds appear to
float while falling is that their plumes enhance drag.” . Question Difficulty: Medium

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 59094d87 Question ID ba8ebf49
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 59094d87 ID: ba8ebf49

The Tantaquidgeon Museum in Uncasville, Connecticut, was founded in 1931 with the goal of showcasing the culture The poem Beowulf begins with the word “hwæt,” which is an Old English ______ as “hark!” or “listen!” in some versions,
and history of the Mohegan ______ today, nearly a century later, it is the oldest Native-owned and -operated museum the word was playfully rendered as “bro!” by Maria Dahvana Headley in her 2020 translation of the poem.
in the country.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. exclamation, translated
A. Tribe, and
B. exclamation and translated
B. Tribe
C. exclamation translated
C. Tribe and
D. exclamation. Translated
D. Tribe,

ID: ba8ebf49 Answer

ID: 59094d87 Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this
Choice A is the best answer. This choice uses a comma and a coordinating conjunction (“and”) to join two choice, the period is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence ("The poem…exclamation")
independent clauses (“The Tantaquidgeon…Tribe” and “Today…country”). and another sentence that begins with a supplementary element ("Translated…poem"). The supplementary
element "translated as ‘hark!’ or ‘listen!’ in some versions" modifies the subject of the second sentence, "the
Choice B is incorrect. This choice results in a grammar error known as a run-on sentence. The clauses before word" (referring to hwæt).
and after “Tribe” are both independent, so they need to be separated with some sort of punctuation. Choice C is
incorrect. This choice results in a grammar error known as a run-on sentence. The clauses before and after Choice A is incorrect because it results in a comma splice after "exclamation." A comma can’t be used in this
“and” are both independent, so they can’t be linked with just a conjunction. A comma would also be required. way to mark the boundary between sentences. Choice B is incorrect. Without a comma preceding it, the
Choice D is incorrect. This choice results in a grammar error called a comma splice. The clauses before and conjunction "and" can’t be used in this way to join sentences. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a
after “Tribe” are both independent, so they can’t be linked with just a comma. A coordinating conjunction like comma splice after "versions." A comma can’t be used in this way to mark the boundary between sentences.
“and” or “but” would also be required.
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a8fa749a Question ID 84658166

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: a8fa749a ID: 84658166

Nigerian author Buchi Emecheta’s celebrated literary oeuvre includes The Joys of Motherhood, a novel about the In 1943, in the midst of World War II, mathematics professor Grace Hopper was recruited by the US military to help the
changing roles of women in 1950s ______ a television play about the private struggles of a newlywed couple in Nigeria; war effort by solving complex equations. Hopper’s subsequent career would involve more than just ______ as a
and Head Above Water, her autobiography. pioneering computer programmer, Hopper would help usher in the digital age.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Lagos, A Kind of Marriage, A. equations, though:

B. Lagos; A Kind of Marriage, B. equations, though,

C. Lagos, A Kind of Marriage: C. equations. Though,

D. Lagos; A Kind of Marriage D. equations though

ID: a8fa749a Answer ID: 84658166 Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of items in a complex series (a Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of punctuation to mark boundaries
series including internal punctuation). In this choice, the semicolon after “Lagos” is conventionally used to between supplements and clauses. The comma after “equations” is used to separate the independent clause
separate the first item (“The Joys…Lagos”) and the second item (“A Kind…Nigeria”) in the series. Further, the (“Hopper’s…equation”) from the supplementary adverb phrase “though.” The colon after “though” is used to
comma after “Marriage” correctly separates the title “A Kind of Marriage” from the supplementary phrase (“a mark the boundary between the clause ending with “though” and the following clause (“as…age”). A colon used
television…Nigeria”) that describes it. in this way introduces information that illustrates or explains information that has come before it. In this
case, the colon after “though” introduces the following explanation of how Hopper’s subsequent career would
Choice A is incorrect because the comma after “Lagos” doesn’t match the semicolon used later in the series to involve more than just solving equations: she would become a pioneering computer programmer.
separate the second item (“A Kind…Nigeria”) from the third item (“and…autobiography”). Choice C is incorrect
because the comma after “Lagos” doesn’t match the semicolon used later in the series to separate the second Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to join two
item (“A Kind…Nigeria”) from the third item (“and…autobiography”). Additionally, a colon can’t be used in this independent clauses (“Hopper’s…though” and “as…age”) such as these. Choice C is incorrect because it results
way to separate the title “A Kind of Marriage” from the supplementary phrase (“a television…Nigeria”) that in an illogical sequence of sentences. Placing the period after “equations” and beginning the next sentence
describes it. Choice D is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the title “A Kind with “Though” illogically suggests that the following information (that Hopper would help usher in the digital
of Marriage” from the supplementary phrase (“a television…Nigeria”) that describes it. age) is contrary to the information in the previous sentence (Hopper’s subsequent career would involve more
than just solving equations). Instead, the information that follows supports the information from the previous
Question Difficulty: Hard sentence by explaining how her work and influence extended beyond solely solving equations. Choice D is
incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two independent clauses (“Hopper’s…though” and “as…
age”) are fused without punctuation.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5cc85f01 Question ID 78b88c04
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 5cc85f01 ID: 78b88c04

A conceptual artist and designer embraced by both the art world and the fashion ______ Mary Ping was chosen to Joshua Hinson, director of the language revitalization program of the Chickasaw Nation in Oklahoma, helped produce
curate the exhibition Front Row: Chinese American Designers for the Museum of Chinese in America. the world’s first Indigenous-language instructional app, Chickasaw ______ Chickasaw TV, in 2010; and a Rosetta Stone
language course in Chickasaw, in 2015.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. world
A. Basic; in 2009, an online television network;
B. world:
B. Basic; in 2009, an online television network,
C. world;
C. Basic, in 2009; an online television network,
D. world,
D. Basic, in 2009, an online television network,

ID: 5cc85f01 Answer

Correct Answer: D ID: 78b88c04 Answer
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a supplementary phrase and
a main clause. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the supplementary phrase Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of items in a complex series. It’s
(“A conceptual artist…world”), which describes Mary Ping, and the main clause (“Mary…America”). conventional to use a semicolon to separate items in a complex series with internal punctuation, and in this
choice, the semicolon after “2009” is conventionally used to separate the first item (“the world’s…2009”) and the
Choice A is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary between the supplementary phrase (“A conceptual second item (“an online…2010”) in the series of things that Hinson helped create. Further, the comma after
artist…world”) and the main clause (“Mary…America”) with appropriate punctuation. Choice B is incorrect “Basic” correctly pairs with the comma after “app,” and the comma after “network” correctly pairs with the
because a colon can’t be used in this way to join the supplementary phrase (“A conceptual artist…world”) and comma after “TV” to set off the supplemental elements (“Chickasaw Basic” and “Chickasaw TV”) that provide
the main clause (“Mary…America”). In this context, the colon incorrectly suggests that the information in the the names of the app and the TV network, respectively. Altogether, the punctuation in this choice results in a
supplementary phrase is an explanation or amplification of the information in the main clause (Mary Ping sentence that clearly indicates that Hinson helped make a language app in 2009, an online TV network in 2010,
being chosen to curate the exhibition), which isn’t the case. Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be and a language course in 2015.
used in this way to join the supplementary phrase (“A conceptual artist…world”) and the main clause (“Mary…
America”). Semicolons are conventionally used to separate two main clauses or to separate items in a complex Choice A is incorrect because it fails to punctuate the complex series in a way that makes clear that Hinson
series. helped make a language app in 2009, an online TV network in 2010, and a language course in 2015. Choice B is
incorrect because it fails to punctuate the complex series in a way that makes clear that Hinson helped make
Question Difficulty: Medium a language app in 2009, an online TV network in 2010, and a language course in 2015. Choice D is incorrect
because the comma after “2009” doesn’t match the semicolon used to separate the second and third items in
the complex series.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3ed5ebb4 Question ID 2c4cd76d

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 3ed5ebb4 ID: 2c4cd76d

In her analysis of Edith Wharton’s The House of Mirth (1905), scholar Candace Waid observes that the novel depicts the Researchers studying magnetosensation have determined why some soil-dwelling roundworms in the Southern
upper classes of New York society as “consumed by the appetite of a soulless ______ an apt assessment given that The Hemisphere move in the opposite direction of Earth’s magnetic field when searching for ______ in the Northern
House of Mirth is set during the Gilded Age, a period marked by rapid industrialization, economic greed, and widening Hemisphere, the magnetic field points down, into the ground, but in the Southern Hemisphere, it points up, toward the
wealth disparities. surface and away from worms’ food sources.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. materialism”; and A. food:

B. materialism” and B. food,

C. materialism,” C. food while

D. materialism” D. food

ID: 3ed5ebb4 Answer ID: 2c4cd76d Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a main clause and a Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is colon use within a sentence. A colon used in this
supplementary noun phrase. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the main way introduces information that illustrates or explains information that has come before it. In this case, the
clause (“scholar…materialism”) and the supplementary noun phrase (“an apt assessment”) that describes colon introduces the following explanation of why some roundworms in the Southern Hemisphere move in the
Waid’s observation about how The House of Mirth depicts the upper classes of New York society. opposite direction of Earth’s magnetic field.

Choice A is incorrect because a semicolon and the conjunction “and” can’t be used in this way to mark the Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to join two long
boundary between a main clause and a supplementary noun phrase. Choice B is incorrect. Joining the main independent clauses (“Researchers…food” and “in…sources”) such as these. Choice C is incorrect because it
clause (“scholar…materialism”) and the following noun phrase with the conjunction “and” results in a results in a run-on sentence. The two clauses (“Researchers…food” and “in…sources”) are fused without
confusing and illogical sentence that suggests that the novel depicts the upper classes of New York society as punctuation. Furthermore, the conjunction “while” fails to indicate that what follows is an explanation of why
“an apt assessment,” which doesn’t make sense in this context. Choice D is incorrect because it fails to mark some roundworms in the Southern Hemisphere move in the opposite direction of Earth’s magnetic field.
the boundary between the main clause and the supplementary noun phrase with appropriate punctuation. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two clauses (“Researchers…food” and “in…
sources”) are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction.
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID fe41f258 Question ID c04e9136
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: fe41f258 ID: c04e9136

In ancient Greece, an Epicurean was a follower of Epicurus, a philosopher whose beliefs revolved around the pursuit of The 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to three pioneers in the field of click chemistry: two-time Nobel
pleasure. Epicurus defined pleasure as “the absence of pain in the body and of trouble in the ______ that all life’s virtues laureate Barry Sharpless, who coined the term “click chemistry” in 1998; Carolyn Bertozzi, founder of the Bertozzi Group
derived from this absence. at ______ and Morten Meldal, a professor at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. soul,” positing A. Stanford

B. soul”: positing B. Stanford,

C. soul”; positing C. Stanford:

D. soul.” Positing D. Stanford;

ID: fe41f258 Answer ID: c04e9136 Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between a main clause and a Choice D is the best answer. This choice correctly uses a semicolon to punctuate a complex list (which is
participial phrase. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the main clause made up of items that have commas in them).
(“Epicurus…‘soul’”) and the participial phrase (“positing…absence”) that provides additional information about
how Epicurus defined pleasure. Choice A is incorrect. This is a complex list, indicated by the semicolon between "1998" and "Carolyn Bertozzi."
What comes after the blank is a separate list item, so punctuation is needed after "Stanford." Choice B is
Choice B is incorrect because a colon can’t be used in this way to join a main clause and a participial phrase. incorrect. This is a complex list, indicated by the semicolon between "1998" and "Carolyn Bertozzi." The items
Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to join a main clause and a participial in this list have internal punctuation in the form of commas and must therefore be separated by semicolons to
phrase. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a rhetorically unacceptable sentence fragment beginning avoid confusion. Choice C is incorrect. This is a complex list, indicated by the semicolon between "1998" and
with “positing.” "Carolyn Bertozzi." Colons aren’t used to separate items in a list.

Question Difficulty: Medium Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID a427a52c Question ID c468db1c

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: a427a52c ID: c468db1c

The Lion Light system, developed by Kenyan inventor Richard Turere, consists of LED lights installed around the A group of ecologists led by Axel Mithöfer at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology in Germany examined the
perimeter of livestock pastures. Powered with ______ the blinking LEDs keep lions away at night, thus protecting the defensive responses of two varieties of the sweet potato ______ TN57, which is known for its insect resistance, and
livestock without risking harm to the endangered lions. TN66, which is much more susceptible to pests.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. energy collected, by solar panels, during the day A. plant.

B. energy collected by solar panels during the day B. plant;

C. energy collected by solar panels during the day, C. plant

D. energy, collected by solar panels during the day, D. plant:

ID: a427a52c Answer ID: c468db1c Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a supplementary phrase and Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between a main clause and a
a main clause. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the supplementary phrase supplementary phrase. In this choice, a colon is correctly used to mark the boundary between the main clause
(“powered…day”), which describes how the LEDs are powered, and the main clause (“the blinking…night”). (“A group…plant”) and the supplementary element (“TN57…pests”) and to introduce the following elaboration on
the specific varieties of sweet potato plants that were examined.
Choice A is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary between the supplementary phrase and the main
clause with appropriate punctuation. Furthermore, placing commas around the phrase “by solar panels” Choice A is incorrect because it results in a rhetorically unacceptable sentence fragment beginning with
suggests that it could be removed without affecting the coherence of the sentence, which isn’t the case. Choice “TN57.” Choice B is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to join the main clause (“A group…
B is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary between the supplementary phrase and the main clause plant”) and the supplementary element (“TN57…pests”). A semicolon is conventionally used to join two main
with appropriate punctuation. Choice D is incorrect. Placing commas around the phrase “collected by solar clauses, whereas a colon is conventionally used to introduce an element that explains or amplifies the
panels during the day″ suggests that it could be removed without affecting the coherence of the sentence, information in the preceding clause. Choice C is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary between the
which isn’t the case. main clause (“A group...plant”) and the supplementary element (“TN57...pests”) with appropriate punctuation.

Question Difficulty: Medium Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 109d5bbb Question ID 6d4b2e1e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 109d5bbb ID: 6d4b2e1e

With some 16,000 in attendance, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and ______ or FESTAC ‘77, as the The 1977 play And the Soul Shall Dance depicts two Japanese American farming families in Depression-era Southern
event was more commonly known—became the largest pan-African event on record. FESTAC drew people from around California. Critics have noted the way pioneering ______ compares the experiences of issei (Japanese nationals who
the world to Lagos, Nigeria, for a monthlong celebration of Black and African art, scholarship, and activism. emigrated to America) and nisei (their American-born children).

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Culture: A. playwright, Wakako Yamauchi,

B. Culture— B. playwright, Wakako Yamauchi

C. Culture, C. playwright Wakako Yamauchi,

D. Culture D. playwright Wakako Yamauchi

ID: 109d5bbb Answer ID: 6d4b2e1e Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. The text uses a dash to introduce a nonessential element that explains the Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of punctuation between titles and proper
acronym FESTAC. The dash matches the dash that comes after “known,” ending the descriptive aside. nouns. No punctuation is needed to set off the proper noun "Wakako Yamauchi" from the title that describes
Yamauchi, "pioneering playwright." Because "Wakako Yamauchi" is essential information identifying the
Choice A is incorrect. A colon can only come after an independent clause, which isn’t the case here. Choice C "pioneering playwright," no punctuation is necessary.
is incorrect. While punctuation is required to set off “or FESTAC…known” from the rest of the sentence,
nonessential elements must be separated from the sentence with matching punctuation. Since a dash appears Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed before or after the proper noun "Wakako Yamauchi."
on the other side of the element, we can’t use a comma here. Choice D is incorrect. The descriptive aside “or Setting the playwright’s name off with commas suggests that it could be removed without affecting the
FESTAC…known” is a nonessential element that must be separated with punctuation from the rest of the coherence of the sentence, which isn’t the case. Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is needed
sentence. This choice fails to add the necessary punctuation before the nonessential element. between the title "pioneering playwright" and the proper noun "Wakako Yamauchi." Choice C is incorrect
because no punctuation is needed between the proper noun "Wakako Yamauchi" and the verb "compares."
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f868d438 Question ID 0a114526

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: f868d438 ID: 0a114526

In 2018, the innovative works of Congolese sculptor and architect Bodys Isek ______ were featured in City Dreams, a In 1937, Chinese American screen actor Anna May Wong, who had portrayed numerous villains and secondary
solo exhibition at New York’s Museum of Modern Art. characters but never a heroine, finally got a starring role in Paramount Pictures’ Daughter of Shanghai, a film that ______
“expanded the range of possibilities for Asian images on screen.”
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. Kingelez;
A. critic, Stina Chyn, claims
B. Kingelez,
B. critic, Stina Chyn, claims,
C. Kingelez
C. critic Stina Chyn claims
D. Kingelez:
D. critic Stina Chyn, claims,

ID: f868d438 Answer

Correct Answer: C ID: 0a114526 Answer
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a subject and a verb. No
punctuation is needed when the subject of a sentence is immediately followed by a main verb. In this case, the Choice C is the best answer. The conventions being tested are punctuation use between titles and proper
sentence’s subject (“the innovative works of Congolese sculptor and architect Bodys Isek Kingelez”) is followed nouns and between verbs and integrated quotations. No punctuation is needed to set off the proper noun
by the main verb “were featured,” and no punctuation should come between them. “Stina Chyn” from the title that describes Chyn, “critic.” Because “Stina Chyn” is essential information
identifying the “critic,” no punctuation is necessary. Further, no punctuation is needed between the verb
Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice B is “claims” and the following quotation because the quotation is integrated into the structure of the sentence.
incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice D is incorrect because
no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed before or after the proper noun “Stina Chyn.” Setting
the critic’s name off with commas suggests that it could be removed without affecting the coherence of the
Question Difficulty: Hard sentence, which isn’t the case. Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is needed before or after the
proper noun “Stina Chyn.” Setting the critic’s name off with commas suggests that it could be removed without
affecting the coherence of the sentence, which isn’t the case. Additionally, no punctuation is needed between
“claims” and the integrated quotation. Choice D is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the
verb “claims” and its subject, “critic Stina Chyn.” Additionally, no punctuation is needed between the verb
“claims” and the integrated quotation.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7ce4ee13 Question ID 5aae2475
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 7ce4ee13 ID: 5aae2475

After immigrating from Mexico and obtaining U.S. citizenship, Octaviano Ambrosio Larrazolo entered politics, earning a Stomata, tiny pore structures in a leaf that absorb gases needed for plant growth, open when guard cells surrounding
reputation for being a fervent defender of Hispanic civil rights. In 1919 Larrazolo was elected governor of ______ in 1928 each pore swell with water. In a pivotal 2007 article, plant cell ______ showed that lipid molecules called
he became the nation’s first Hispanic U.S. Senator. phosphatidylinositol phosphates are responsible for signaling guard cells to open stomata.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. New Mexico and A. biologist, Yuree Lee

B. New Mexico, B. biologist Yuree Lee,

C. New Mexico, and C. biologist Yuree Lee

D. New Mexico D. biologist, Yuree Lee,

ID: 7ce4ee13 Answer ID: 5aae2475 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of punctuation between titles and proper
sentence. This choice correctly uses a comma and the coordinating conjunction "and" to join the first main nouns. No punctuation is needed to offset the proper noun “Yuree Lee” form the title “plant cell biologist” that
clause ("In 1919 Larrazolo was elected governor of New Mexico") and the second main clause ("in 1928 he describes Lee.
became the nation’s first Hispanic US Senator").
Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed. Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is
Choice A is incorrect because when coordinating two longer main clauses such as these, it’s conventional to needed. Choice D is incorrect because no punctuation is needed around the proper noun “Yuree Lee.” Setting
use a comma before the coordinating conjunction. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. the phrase off with punctuation suggests that it could be removed without affecting the coherence of the
Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to join two main clauses. Choice D is sentence, which isn’t the case.
incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two main clauses are fused without punctuation and/or
a conjunction. Question Difficulty: Hard

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ad046778 Question ID be37d4ae

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: ad046778 ID: be37d4ae

To humans, it does not appear that the golden orb-weaver spider uses camouflage to capture its ______ the brightly During the English neoclassical period (1660–1789), many writers imitated the epic poetry and satires of ancient Greece
colored arachnid seems to wait conspicuously in the center of its large circular web for insects to approach. Researcher and Rome. They were not the first in England to adopt the literary modes of classical ______ some of the most
Po Peng of the University of Melbourne has explained that the spider’s distinctive coloration may in fact be part of its prominent figures of the earlier Renaissance period were also influenced by ancient Greek and Roman literature.
appeal.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. antiquity, however
A. prey, rather,
B. antiquity, however,
B. prey rather,
C. antiquity, however;
C. prey, rather;
D. antiquity; however,
D. prey; rather,

ID: be37d4ae Answer

ID: ad046778 Answer Correct Answer: C
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary phrase
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a following a clause. This choice uses a comma to separate the supplementary adverb phrase “however” from
sentence. The semicolon is correctly used to join the first main clause (“To humans…prey”) and the second the independent clause it modifies (“They …antiquity”) and uses a semicolon to join the first independent
main clause (“rather…approach”). Further, the comma after the adverb “rather” is correctly used to separate the clause (“They …antiquity”) and the second independent clause (“some…literature”). Further, placing the
adverb from the main clause (“the brightly…approach”) it modifies, logically indicating that the information in semicolon after “however” indicates that the information in the clause that this part of (that neoclassical
this clause (how the spider’s behavior appears to humans) is contrary to the information in the previous writers were not the first to adopt classical literary modes) is contrary to what might be assumed from the
clause (how the spider’s behavior does not appear to humans). information in the previous sentence (that the neoclassical writers were unique in imitating classical epic
poetry and satires).
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t
be used in this way to join two main clauses. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The Choice A is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary after “however” between the two independent
two main clauses are fused without appropriate punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice C is incorrect. clauses with appropriate punctuation. Choice B is incorrect because the comma after “however” can’t be used
Placing the comma between the first main clause “To humans…prey” and the adverb “rather” illogically in this way to mark the boundary between the two independent clauses. Choice D is incorrect because placing
indicates that the information in the first main clause is contrary to what came before, which doesn’t make the semicolon after “antiquity” illogically indicates that the information in the clause that this part of (that
sense in this context. prominent Renaissance figures were also influenced by classical literature) is contrary to the information in
the previous clause (that neoclassical writers were not the first to adopt classical literary modes).
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID c101fc44 Question ID 1ee4485c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: c101fc44 ID: 1ee4485c

How do scientists determine what foods were eaten by extinct hominins such as Neanderthals? In the past, researchers Journalists have dubbed Gil Scott-Heron the “godfather of rap,” a title that has appeared in hundreds of articles about
were limited to studying the marks found on the fossilized teeth of skeletons, but in 2017 a team led by Laura Weyrich him since the 1990s. Scott-Heron himself resisted the godfather ______ feeling that it didn’t encapsulate his devotion to
of the Australian Centre for Ancient DNA tried something ______ the DNA found in Neanderthals’ fossilized dental the broader African American blues music tradition as well as “bluesologist,” the moniker he preferred.
plaque.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. nickname, however
A. new: sequencing
B. nickname, however;
B. new; sequencing
C. nickname, however,
C. new, sequencing:
D. nickname; however,
D. new. Sequencing

ID: 1ee4485c Answer

ID: c101fc44 Answer Correct Answer: C
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between a main clause and two
Choice A is the best answer. “A team…tried something new” is an independent clause leading to an supplementary elements. In this choice, the commas after “nickname” and “however” are correctly used to
explanation of what the new thing was. A colon can only be used at the end of an independent clause, and separate the supplementary adverb “however” from the main clause (“Scott-Heron…nickname”) on one side
typically introduces further explanation that expands upon the first clause, which makes a colon the perfect and the supplementary participial phrase (“feeling…bluesologist”) on the other.
choice here.
Choice A is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary between the supplementary adverb “however” and
Choice B is incorrect. This choice results in a punctuation error. “Sequencing…dental plaque” can’t stand on its the supplementary phrase (“feeling…bluesologist”). Choice B is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in
own as a sentence, and so it can’t be linked to the independent clause “a team…tried something new” with a this way to join the supplementary adverb “however” and the supplementary phrase (“feeling…bluesologist”).
semicolon. Only two independent clauses can be connected in this way. Choice C is incorrect. This choice Choice D is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to join the main clause (“Scott-Heron…
results in a punctuation error. If “sequencing” is included in the first clause, it can no longer stand on its own nickname”) and the supplementary word and phrase (“however” and “feeling…bluesologist”). Moreover, placing
as a complete idea. Since a colon can only come at the end of an independent clause, using one in this way the semicolon after “nickname” illogically signals that the following information (Scott-Heron’s feeling that
creates an error. Choice D is incorrect. This choice results in a sentence fragment. “Sequencing…dental plaque” the nickname didn’t encapsulate his devotion to the blues tradition) is contrary to the information in the
can’t stand on its own as a sentence. previous clause (Scott-Heron’s resistance to the nickname).

Question Difficulty: Medium Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID fdb16e20 Question ID c8540a5b

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: fdb16e20 ID: c8540a5b

Quantum particles of light—photons—provide an unhackable means of transmitting encryption keys over networks, as Swedish scientists Eva Engvall and Peter Perlmann developed a method for measuring the concentration of different
attempts to observe particles in quantum states will invariably alter the particles ______ dismantle any information they proteins in a biological sample. Their ______ ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), is used to detect and
transmit. measure proteins that indicate the presence of certain diseases.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. and in the process, A. method (called

B. and, in the process, B. method—called

C. and in the process— C. method, called

D. and, in the process D. method called

ID: fdb16e20 Answer ID: c8540a5b Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. This choice uses paired punctuation in the form of two commas to set off the Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary element
nonessential phrase "in the process." within a sentence. The comma after “method” pairs with the comma after the closing parenthesis to separate
the supplementary element “called ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay)” from the rest of the
Choice A is incorrect. The phrase "in the process" is a nonessential element and needs to be set off with paired sentence. This supplementary element functions to identify the name of Engvall and Perlmann’s method, and
punctuation. We need a comma after "and" to match the one after "process." Choice C is incorrect. The phrase the pair of commas indicates that this element could be removed without affecting the grammatical
"in the process" is a nonessential element and needs to be set off with paired punctuation, so we would need a coherence of the sentence.
dash after "and" to match the one following "process." Choice D is incorrect. The phrase "in the process" is a
nonessential element and needs to be set off with paired punctuation. We would need a comma after "process" Choice A is incorrect because an opening parenthesis can’t be paired with a comma to separate the
to match the one following "and." supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because a dash can’t be paired
with a comma to separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Choice D is incorrect
Question Difficulty: Hard because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the supplementary element from the rest of the
sentence.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 2fd05c15 Question ID 594b4a94
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 2fd05c15 ID: 594b4a94

In crafting her fantasy fiction, Nigerian-born British author Helen Oyeyemi has drawn inspiration from the classic The field of geological oceanography owes much to American ______ Marie Tharp, a pioneering oceanographic
nineteenth-century fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. Her 2014 novel Boy, Snow, Bird, for instance, is a complex retelling cartographer whose detailed topographical maps of the ocean floor and its multiple rift valleys helped garner
of the story of Snow White, while her 2019 novel ______ offers a delicious twist on the classic tale of Hansel and Gretel. acceptance for the theories of plate tectonics and continental drift.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. ­Gingerbread— A. geologist,

B. ­Gingerbread, B. geologist

C. Gingerbread C. geologist;

D. ­Gingerbread: D. geologist:

ID: 2fd05c15 Answer ID: 594b4a94 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a subject and a verb. When, Choice B is the best answer. “Marie tharp” is essential information that completes the first clause — the first
as in this case, a subject (“her 2019 novel Gingerbread”) is immediately followed by a verb (“offers”), no clause doesn’t function without it. So we don’t want to separate it with punctuation.
punctuation is needed.
Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. “The field of geological oceanography owes
Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice B is much to American geologist” is unclear: which geologist are we talking about? We need the “Marie Tharp” for
incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice D is incorrect because clarity, which means it’s essential information and should not be separated by a comma. Choice C is incorrect.
no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. This choice creates a punctuation error. “The field of geological oceanography owes much to American
geologist” is unclear: which geologist are we talking about? We need the “Marie Tharp” for clarity, which
Question Difficulty: Hard means it’s essential information and should not be separated by a semicolon. Choice D is incorrect. This
choice creates a punctuation error. “The field of geological oceanography owes much to American geologist” is
unclear: which geologist are we talking about? We need the “Marie Tharp” for clarity, which means it’s
essential information and should not be separated by a colon.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b15724fc Question ID 40c3589d

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: b15724fc ID: 40c3589d

American writer Edwidge Danticat, who emigrated from Haiti in 1981, has won acclaim for her powerful short stories, Luci Tapahonso is the inaugural poet laureate of the Navajo Nation. Her book Sáanii Dahataal/The Women Are Singing
novels, and ______ her lyrical yet unflinching depictions of her native country’s turbulent history, writer Robert Antoni —a combination of fiction and memoir, poetry and ______ serves as a testament to her versatility as a writer.
has compared Danticat to Nobel Prize–winning novelist Toni Morrison.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. prose;
A. essays, praising
B. prose
B. essays and praising
C. prose,
C. essays praising
D. prose—
D. essays. Praising

ID: 40c3589d Answer

ID: b15724fc Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “A combination of fiction and memoir, poetry and prose” is a nonessential
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this supplement, so it needs to be set off from the rest of the sentence with a pair of matching punctuation marks.
choice, the period after “essays” is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence (“American… We already have a dash at the beginning of the supplement, so we need to add a dash at the end of the
essays”) and another (“praising…Morrison”). The participial phrase beginning with “Praising” modifies the supplement to match.
subject of the second sentence, “writer Robert Antoni.”
Choice A is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to mark the English. “A combination of fiction and memoir, poetry and prose” is a nonessential supplement, so it needs to
boundary between sentences. Choice B is incorrect. Without a comma preceding it, the conjunction “and” can’t be set off from the rest of the sentence with a pair of matching punctuation marks. We already have a dash at
be used in this way to join sentences. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The the beginning of the supplement, so we need to add a dash at the end of the supplement to match. Choice B is
sentences (“American…essays” and “Praising…Morrison”) are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard English. “A
combination of fiction and memoir, poetry and prose” is a nonessential supplement, so it needs to be set off
Question Difficulty: Hard from the rest of the sentence with a pair of matching punctuation marks. We already have a dash at the
beginning of the supplement, so we need to add a dash at the end of the supplement to match. Choice C is
incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard English. “A
combination of fiction and memoir, poetry and prose” is a nonessential supplement, so it needs to be set off
from the rest of the sentence with a pair of matching punctuation marks. We already have a dash at the
beginning of the supplement, so we need to add a dash at the end of the supplement to match.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 1b97cce9 Question ID 37e5c794
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: 1b97cce9 ID: 37e5c794

Hegra is an archaeological site in present-day Saudi Arabia and was the second largest city of the Nabataean Kingdom Despite being cheap, versatile, and easy to produce, ______ they are made from nonrenewable petroleum, and most do
(fourth century BCE to first century CE). Archaeologist Laila Nehmé recently traveled to Hegra to study its ancient ______ not biodegrade in landfills.
into the rocky outcrops of a vast desert, these burial chambers seem to blend seamlessly with nature.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. there are two problems associated with commercial plastics:
A. tombs. Built
B. two problems are associated with commercial plastics:
B. tombs, built
C. commercial plastics’ two associated problems are that
C. tombs and built
D. commercial plastics have two associated problems:
D. tombs built

ID: 37e5c794 Answer

ID: 1b97cce9 Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice ensures
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this that the modifying phrase “despite being cheap, versatile, and easy to produce” appears immediately before
choice, the period after “tombs” is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence the noun it modifies, “commercial plastics,” clearly establishing that the commercial plastics—and not another
(“Archaeologist...tombs”) and another (“Built...nature”). noun in the sentence—are being described as cheap, versatile, and easy to produce.

Choice B is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to mark the Choice A is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the function word “there”
boundary between sentences. Choice C is incorrect. Without a comma preceding it, the conjunction “and” can’t immediately after the modifying phrase illogically and confusingly suggests that “there” is cheap, versatile,
be used in this way to join the two sentences. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The and easy to produce. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun
sentences (“Archaeologist...tombs” and “Built...nature”) are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. “two problems” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that the “problems” are cheap,
versatile, and easy to produce. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of
Question Difficulty: Hard the noun phrase “commercial plastics’ two associated problems” immediately after the modifying phrase
illogically suggests that the “problems” are cheap, versatile, and easy to produce.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6f08641e Question ID 1ee7b429

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 6f08641e ID: 1ee7b429

On April 5, 1977, Kitty Cone and 150 other disability rights activists entered a San Francisco federal building. After Bonnie Buratti of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory ______ data about Saturn’s rings collected by the Cassini spacecraft
pleading for years—to no effect—for the passage of key antidiscrimination legislation, ______ until their demands were when she made an interesting discovery: the tiny moons embedded between and within Saturn’s rings are shaped by
addressed. Finally, on April 28, the legislation was signed. the buildup of ring material on the moons’ surfaces.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. pressure on lawmakers increased when the activists staged a sit-in protest A. studies

B. a sit-in protest staged by the activists increased pressure on lawmakers B. has been studying

C. lawmakers came under increased pressure when the activists staged a sit-in protest C. will study

D. the activists increased pressure on lawmakers by staging a sit-in protest D. was studying

ID: 6f08641e Answer ID: 1ee7b429 Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice makes Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense in a sentence. In
the noun phrase “the activists” the subject of the sentence and places it immediately after the modifying this choice, the past progressive tense verb “was studying” is consistent with the other past tense verbs (e.g.,
phrase “after...legislation.” In doing so, this choice clearly establishes that the activists—and not another noun “made” and “collected”) used to describe Buratti’s discovery. Further, the past progressive tense correctly
in the sentence—were pleading for the passage of antidiscrimination legislation. indicates that an ongoing action in the past was occurring (she was studying) at the same time that another
event occurred in the past (she made an interesting discovery).
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “pressure on
lawmakers” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that the “pressure” was pleading for Choice A is incorrect because the present tense verb “studies” isn’t consistent with the past tense verbs used
the passage of antidiscrimination legislation. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. to describe Buratti’s discovery. Choice B is incorrect because the present perfect progressive tense verb “has
The placement of the noun phrase “a sit-in protest” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically been studying” isn’t consistent with the past tense verbs used to describe Buratti’s discovery. Choice C is
suggests that the “protest” was pleading for the passage of antidiscrimination legislation. Choice C is incorrect incorrect because the future tense verb “will study” isn’t consistent with the past tense verbs used to describe
because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “lawmakers” immediately after the Buratti’s discovery.
modifying phrase suggests that “lawmakers” were pleading for the passage of antidiscrimination legislation.
While it’s possible for lawmakers to plead for the passage of legislation, the context strongly suggests that it’s Question Difficulty: Medium
the activists who pleaded for years for the passage of antidiscrimination legislation.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID f0864217 Question ID c91ef0f0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: f0864217 ID: c91ef0f0

Rabinal Achí is a precolonial Maya dance drama performed annually in Rabinal, a town in the Guatemalan highlands. During the American Civil War, Thomas Morris Chester braved the front lines as a war correspondent for the
Based on events that occurred when Rabinal was a city-state ruled by a king, ______ had once been an ally of the king Philadelphia Press. Amplifying the voices and experiences of Black soldiers ______ of particular importance to Chester,
but was later captured while leading an invading force against him. who later became an activist and lawyer during the postwar Reconstruction period.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Rabinal Achí tells the story of K’iche’ Achí, a military leader who A. were

B. K’iche’ Achí, the military leader in the story of Rabinal Achí, B. have been

C. the military leader whose story is told in Rabinal Achí, K’iche’ Achí, C. are

D. there was a military leader, K’iche’ Achí, who in Rabinal Achí D. was

ID: f0864217 Answer ID: c91ef0f0 Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The modifier “Based on events…by a king,” is describing the drama “Rabinal Achí.” Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb "was"
Modifiers need to be next to the subjects they describe, so “Rabinal Achí” needs to be the first word after the agrees in number with the singular subject "amplifying." Gerunds such as "amplifying" are always singular.
comma.
Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb "were" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject
Choice B is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard "amplifying." Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb "have been" doesn’t agree in number with the
English. The modifier “Based on events…by a king,” is describing the drama “Rabinal Achí.” Modifiers need to singular subject "amplifying." Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb "are" doesn’t agree in number with
be next to the subjects they describe, so “Rabinal Achí” needs to be the first word after the comma. Choice C is the singular subject "amplifying."
incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard English. The
modifier “Based on events…by a king,” is describing the drama “Rabinal Achí.” Modifiers need to be next to the Question Difficulty: Hard
subjects they describe, so “Rabinal Achí” needs to be the first word after the comma. Choice D is incorrect. This
doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard English. The modifier “Based
on events…by a king,” is describing the drama “Rabinal Achí.” Modifiers need to be next to the subjects they
describe, so “Rabinal Achí” needs to be the first word after the comma.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6e193b19 Question ID ea0aa676

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 6e193b19 ID: ea0aa676

Professional American football player Fred Cox invented one of the world’s most popular toys. In the 1970s, he came In the 1970s, Janaki Ammal, a prominent botanist, emerged as a powerful voice in India’s environmental conservation
up with the idea for the Nerf football, which ______ of the harder and heavier regulation football. movement. Her exhaustive chromosomal survey of plants in Silent Valley, a pristine tropical forest in Kerala, India, that
is home to nearly 1,000 species of native flora (many of which are endangered), ______ instrumental in the
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? government’s decision to preserve the forest.
A. were a smaller, foam version
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
B. are smaller, foam versions
A. are
C. were smaller, foam versions
B. were
D. is a smaller, foam version
C. have been

D. was
ID: 6e193b19 Answer
Correct Answer: D
ID: ea0aa676 Answer
Rationale
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement and agreement between Rationale
nouns. The singular verb “is” and the singular noun “version” both agree in number with the relative pronoun
“which.” In this context, “which” functions as a singular subject because it refers to the singular noun “the Nerf Choice D is the best answer. The subject "survey" is singular, and so is the verb "was."
football.”
Choice A is incorrect. The subject "survey" is singular, but the verb "are" is plural. Choice B is incorrect. The
Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb “were” doesn’t agree in number with the singular noun phrase subject "survey" is singular, but the verb "were" is plural. Choice C is incorrect. The subject "survey" is singular,
“the Nerf football” that it’s modifying. Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb “are” and the plural noun but the verb "have been" is plural.
“versions” don’t agree in number with the singular noun phrase “the Nerf football” that they’re modifying.
Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb “were” and the plural noun “versions” don’t agree in number with Question Difficulty: Hard
the singular noun phrase “the Nerf football” that they’re modifying.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID dc645172 Question ID 512f0ac9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: dc645172 ID: 512f0ac9

The artistic talents of Barbara Chase-Riboud, most known for her 1979 historical novel Sally Hemings and the Working from an earlier discovery of Charpentier’s, chemists Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna—winners
conversation it inspired, ______ limited to the realm of prose: she first excelled in sculpture, where her affinity for bronze of the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry—re-created and then reprogrammed the so-called “genetic scissors” of a species
—a material she described as “timeless” due to its use across eras and cultures—became part of her artistic identity. of DNA-cleaving bacteria ______ a tool that is revolutionizing the field of gene technology.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. hasn’t been A. to forge

B. wasn’t B. forging

C. isn’t C. forged

D. aren’t D. and forging

ID: dc645172 Answer ID: 512f0ac9 Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The subject "talents" is plural, and so is the verb "aren’t": "the artistic talents… Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of finite and nonfinite verb forms within a
aren’t limited." sentence. The nonfinite to-infinitive “to forge” is correctly used to form a nonfinite (infinitive) clause that
explains why the chemists re-created and reprogrammed the DNA-cleaving bacteria.
Choice A is incorrect. The subject "talents" is plural, but the verb "hasn’t been" is singular. Choice B is
incorrect. The subject "talents" is plural, but the verb "wasn’t" is singular. Choice C is incorrect. The subject Choice B is incorrect. Without a comma separating the main clause (“chemists...bacteria”) from the participle
"talents" is plural, but the verb "isn’t" is singular. “forging,” this choice illogically suggests that the bacteria are forging a tool, which doesn’t make sense. Choice
C is incorrect. Without a coordinating conjunction such as “and” placed before it, the finite past tense verb
Question Difficulty: Hard “forged” can’t be used in this way to describe the chemists’ actions. Choice D is incorrect. If read as a finite
verb, the present progressive verb “forging” isn’t consistent with the past tense verbs used in this sentence to
describe the actions of the chemists. If read as a nonfinite verb, the participle “forging” can’t be used in this
way because there is no following main clause for it to modify.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d2b81427 Question ID b74f676f

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: d2b81427 ID: b74f676f

In assessing the films of Japanese director Akira Kurosawa, ______ have missed his equally deep engagement with Classical composer Florence Price’s 1927 move to Chicago marked a turning point in her career. It was there that Price
Japanese artistic traditions such as Noh theater. premiered her First Symphony—a piece that was praised for blending traditional Romantic motifs with aspects of Black
folk music—and ______ supportive relationships with other Black artists.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. many critics have focused on Kurosawa’s use of Western literary sources but
A. developing
B. Kurosawa’s use of Western literary sources has been the focus of many critics, who
B. developed
C. there are many critics who have focused on Kurosawa’s use of Western literary sources, but they
C. to develop
D. the focus of many critics has been on Kurosawa’s use of Western literary sources; they
D. having developed

ID: d2b81427 Answer

Correct Answer: A
ID: b74f676f Answer
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice makes
the noun phrase “many critics” the subject of the sentence and places it immediately after the modifying Choice B is the best answer. The missing verb is part of the same clause as the verb "premiered," and "Price" is
phrase “in assessing…Kurosawa.” In doing so, this choice clearly establishes that it is the critics—and not the subject of both. So we need the past-tense form "developed" in order to match "premiered."
another noun in the sentence—who assess Kurosawa’s films.
Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a verb form error. The missing verb is part of the same clause as the
Choice B is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “Kurosawa’s… verb "premiered," and "Price" is the subject of both. So we need the past-tense form "developed" in order to
sources” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that his use of Western literary sources is match "premiered." Choice C is incorrect. This choice creates a verb form error. The missing verb is part of the
what assesses Kurosawa’s films. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement same clause as the verb "premiered," and "Price" is the subject of both. So we need the past-tense form
of the function word “there” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that “there” is what "developed" in order to match "premiered." Choice D is incorrect. This choice creates a verb form error. The
assesses Kurosawa’s films. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the missing verb is part of the same clause as the verb "premiered," and "Price" is the subject of both. So we need
noun phrase “the focus…critics” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that the critics’ the past-tense form "developed" in order to match "premiered."
focus is what assesses Kurosawa’s films.
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID 1f8cd95f Question ID 3bceeb93
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 1f8cd95f ID: 3bceeb93

In the 1950s, a man named Joseph McVicker was struggling to keep his business afloat when his sister-in-law Kay When they were first discovered in Australia in 1798, duck-billed, beaver-tailed platypuses so defied categorization that
Zufall advised him to repurpose the company’s product, a nontoxic, clay-like substance for removing soot from one scientist assigned them the name Ornithorhynchus paradoxus: “paradoxical bird-snout.” The animal, which lays
wallpaper, as a modeling putty for kids. In addition, Zufall ______ selling the product under a child-friendly name: Play- eggs but also nurses ______ young with milk, has since been classified as belonging to the monotremes group.
Doh.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. they’re
A. suggested
B. their
B. suggests
C. its
C. had suggested
D. it’s
D. was suggesting

ID: 3bceeb93 Answer

ID: 1f8cd95f Answer Correct Answer: C
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The singular possessive pronoun "its" agrees with the singular antecedent "the
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense. In this choice, animal" and indicates that the "young" belong to it.
the simple past tense verb “suggested” properly indicates that Zufall offered her suggestion for the product’s
name in the past. This verb tense is consistent with the previous sentence’s use of a simple past tense verb Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a pronoun-antecedent agreement error. "They’re" is a contraction of
(“advised”) to describe Zufall’s advice to McVicker in the 1950s. "they are," a plural pronoun and verb, but the antecedent "the animal" is singular. Also, we don’t need the extra
verb "are" — we already have a main verb in this clause, so adding "are" would be confusing and
Choice B is incorrect because the present tense verb “suggests” doesn’t indicate that Zufall offered her ungrammatical. Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a pronoun-antecedent agreement error. "Their" is a
suggestion in the past. Choice C is incorrect because the past perfect verb “had suggested” isn’t consistent plural pronoun, but the subject of the sentence is "the animal," a singular noun. Choice D is incorrect. This
with the previous sentence’s use of the simple past tense verb “advised” to describe Zufall’s advice to choice creates a confusing and ungrammatical sentence. "It’s" is a contraction for "it is." We already have the
McVicker. Choice D is incorrect because the past progressive verb “was suggesting” isn’t consistent with the verb "nurses" in this clause, so we shouldn’t add the verb "is."
previous sentence’s use of the simple past tense verb “advised” to describe Zufall’s advice to McVicker.
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID dab8b8ee Question ID 7f1df833

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: dab8b8ee ID: 7f1df833

Known as Earth’s “living skin,” biocrusts are thin layers of soil held together by surface-dwelling microorganisms such In 1966, Emmett Ashford became the first African American to umpire a Major League Baseball game. His energetic
as fungi, lichens, and cyanobacteria. Fortifying soil in arid ecosystems against erosion, ______ gestures announcing when a player had struck out and his habit of barreling after a hit ball to see if it would land out
of ______ transform the traditionally solemn umpire role into a dynamic one.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. a recent study’s estimate is that these crusts reduce global dust emissions by 60 percent each year.
A. bounds helped
B. an estimated 60 percent reduction in global dust emissions each year is due to these crusts, according to a recent
study. B. bounds, helping

C. these crusts reduce global dust emissions by an estimated 60 percent each year, according to a recent study. C. bounds that helped

D. a recent study has estimated that these crusts reduce global dust emissions by 60 percent each year. D. bounds to help

ID: dab8b8ee Answer ID: 7f1df833 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The subject of the modifier "fortifying soil in arid ecosystems against erosion" is Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is finite verb use in a main clause. A main clause
"biocrusts." Subject-modifier placement requires a modifier and its subject to be next to each other, so requires a finite verb to perform the action of the subject (in this case, Ashford’s “gestures” and “habit”), and
"biocrusts" or some variant meaning "biocrusts" (in this case, "these crusts") must begin the missing clause. this choice supplies the finite past tense verb “helped” to indicate what Ashford’s gestures and habit helped
accomplish.
Choice A is incorrect. Modifiers and their subjects must go next to each other. The subject of the modifier
"fortifying soil in arid ecosystems against erosion" is "biocrusts," not "a recent study’s estimate." Choice B is Choice B is incorrect because the non-finite participle “helping” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite
incorrect. Modifiers and their subjects must go next to each other. The subject of the modifier "fortifying soil in verb. Choice C is incorrect because the relative clause “that helped” doesn’t supply the main clause with a
arid ecosystems against erosion" is "biocrusts," not "an estimated 60 percent reduction." Choice D is incorrect. finite verb. Choice D is incorrect because the non-finite to-infinitive “to help” doesn’t supply the main clause
Modifiers and their subjects must go next to each other. The subject of the modifier "fortifying soil in arid with a finite verb.
ecosystems against erosion" is "biocrusts," not "a recent study."
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID 59209b6d Question ID 0fe5ce68
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 59209b6d ID: 0fe5ce68

Based on genetic evidence, archaeologists have generally agreed that reindeer domestication began in the eleventh Ten of William Shakespeare’s plays are classified as histories. Although each one of these plays, which include Henry V
century CE. However, since uncovering fragments of a 2,000-year-old reindeer training harness in northern Siberia, and Richard III, ______ on a single historical figure (specifically, an English king), some, such as Henry VI Part One and
______ may have begun much earlier. Henry VI Part Two, feature different episodes from the same monarch’s life.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. researcher Robert Losey has argued that domestication A. focuses

B. researcher Robert Losey’s argument is that domestication B. focus

C. domestication, researcher Robert Losey has argued, C. are focused

D. the argument researcher Robert Losey has made is that domestication D. were focused

ID: 59209b6d Answer ID: 0fe5ce68 Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice makes Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb
the noun phrase “researcher Robert Losey” the subject of the sentence and places it immediately after the "focuses" agrees in number with the singular subject "each one of these plays," which refers to each play
modifying phrase “since…Siberia.” In doing so, this choice clearly establishes that researcher Robert Losey— individually.
and not another noun in the sentence—is who uncovered fragments of a 2,000-year-old reindeer training
harness in northern Siberia. Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb "focus" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject "each
one of these plays." Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb "are focused" doesn’t agree in number with
Choice B is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “researcher the singular subject "each one of these plays." Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb "were focused"
Robert Losey’s argument” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that the “argument” is doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject "each one of these plays."
what uncovered fragments of a 2,000-year-old reindeer training harness in northern Siberia. Choice C is
incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun “domestication” immediately Question Difficulty: Hard
after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that “domestication” is what uncovered fragments of a 2,000-
year-old reindeer training harness in northern Siberia. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a dangling
modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “the argument” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically
suggests that the “argument” is what uncovered fragments of a 2,000-year-old reindeer training harness in
northern Siberia.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID dd6a0326 Question ID 684b8bd2

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: dd6a0326 ID: 684b8bd2

African American Percy Julian was a scientist and entrepreneur whose work helped people around the world to see. Far from being modern inventions, ______ more than 5,000 years ago.
Named in 1999 as one of the greatest achievements by a US chemist in the past hundred years, ______ led to the first
mass-produced treatment for glaucoma. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Sumerians in ancient Mesopotamia used drinking straws

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
B. drinking straws were used by Sumerians in ancient Mesopotamia
A. Julian synthesized the alkaloid physostigmine in 1935; it
C. the use of drinking straws by Sumerians in ancient Mesopotamia happened
B. in 1935 Julian synthesized the alkaloid physostigmine, which
D. ancient Mesopotamia was home to Sumerians who used drinking straws
C. Julian’s 1935 synthesis of the alkaloid physostigmine

D. the alkaloid physostigmine was synthesized by Julian in 1935 and

ID: 684b8bd2 Answer
Correct Answer: B
ID: dd6a0326 Answer
Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Rationale Choice B is the best answer. Modifiers and their subjects must go next to each other. The modifier “far from
being modern inventions” must be describing “drinking straws,” because those are the only possible
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice makes inventions in this sentence.
the noun phrase “Julian’s 1935 synthesis” the subject of the sentence and places it immediately after the
modifying phrase “named…years.” In doing so, this choice clearly establishes that Julian’s 1935 synthesis of Choice A is incorrect. Modifiers and their subjects must go next to each other. The modifier “far from being
the alkaloid physostigmine—and not another noun in the sentence—was named in 1999 as one of the greatest modern inventions” can’t be describing “Sumerians,” because they are a group of people, not an invention.
achievements by a US chemist in the past hundred years. Choice C is incorrect. Modifiers and their subjects must go next to each other. The modifier “far from being
modern inventions” can’t be describing “the use of drinking straws,” because it is not “the use” of drinking
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun “Julian” straws that is an invention—it is the drinking straws themselves. Choice D is incorrect. Modifiers and their
immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that Julian himself was named as one of the subjects must go next to each other. The modifier “far from being modern inventions” can’t be describing
greatest achievements by a US chemist in the past hundred years. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a “Ancient Mesopotamia,” because that is a place, not an invention.
dangling modifier. The placement of the prepositional phrase “in 1935” immediately after the modifying phrase
illogically and confusingly suggests that “in 1935” was named as one of the greatest achievements by a US Question Difficulty: Medium
chemist in the past hundred years. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The
placement of the noun phrase “the alkaloid physostigmine” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically
and confusingly suggests that the alkaloid physostigmine itself (not the synthesis of it) was named as one of
the greatest achievements by a US chemist in the past hundred years.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID dd428136 Question ID 5b8f9cf2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: dd428136 ID: 5b8f9cf2

Cheng Dang and her colleagues at the University of Washington recently ran simulations to determine the extent to In the canon of North African literature, Moroccan author Driss Chraïbi’s 1954 novel The Simple Past (Le Passé simple)
which individual snow ______ affect the amount of light reflecting off a snowy surface. looms large. A coming-of-age story, a social meditation, and a sober gaze into the dark maw of French colonialism,
______ interrogates systemic power with memorable intensity.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. grain’s physical properties’
A. Morocco gained its independence two years before the publication of Chraïbi’s debut novel, which
B. grains’ physical properties
B. Chraïbi’s debut novel, published two years before Morocco gained its independence,
C. grains’ physical property’s
C. Chraïbi wrote a debut novel that, published two years before Morocco gained its independence,
D. grains physical properties
D. published two years before Morocco gained its independence, Chraïbi wrote a debut novel that

ID: dd428136 Answer

Correct Answer: B
ID: 5b8f9cf2 Answer
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of plural and possessive nouns. The plural
possessive noun “grains’” and the plural noun “properties” correctly indicate that the simulations involved Choice B is the best answer. Subject-modifier placement requires a modifier and its subject to be next to each
multiple snow grains and that those snow grains had several properties. other. The subject of the modifier "a coming-of-age story…colonialism" is Chraïbi’s novel The Simple Past, so
the subject "Chraïbi’s debut novel" fits perfectly after this introductory modifying phrase.
Choice A is incorrect because the context requires the plural possessive noun “grains’” and the plural noun
“properties,” not the singular possessive noun “grain’s” and the plural possessive noun “properties’.” Choice C is Choice A is incorrect. Modifiers and their subjects must go next to each other. The introductory modifier "a
incorrect because the context requires the plural noun “properties,” not the singular possessive noun coming-of-age story…colonialism" is describing Chraïbi’s novel, not Morocco. However, this choice places
“property’s.” Choice D is incorrect because the context requires the plural possessive noun “grains’,” not the Morocco directly next to that modifier. Choice C is incorrect. Modifiers and their subjects must go next to each
plural noun “grains.” other. The introductory modifier "a coming-of-age story…colonialism" all describes Chraïbi’s novel, not Chraïbi
himself. However, this choice places Chraïbi directly next to that modifier. Choice D is incorrect. Modifiers and
Question Difficulty: Medium their subjects must go next to each other. The modifier "a coming-of-age story…" is describing Chraïbi’s novel,
so that needs to be the subject immediately after the modifier. This choice adds another modifier that
describes Chraïbi’s novel, but then puts "Chraïbi" himself—not the novel—right after that modifier, which
doesn’t make sense. Chraïbi wasn’t "published two years before" Moroccan independence; his novel The
Simple Past was.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID de3dd17d Question ID 2dd1b8bf

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: de3dd17d ID: 2dd1b8bf

Planetary scientist Briony Horgan and her colleagues have determined that as much as 25 percent of the sand on Mars Compared to that of alumina glass, ______ silica glass atoms are so far apart that they are unable to re-form bonds after
is composed of impact spherules. These spherical bits of glass form when asteroids collide with the planet, ejecting bits being separated.
of molten rock into the atmosphere that, after cooling and solidifying into glass, ______ back onto Mars’s surface.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. silica glass is at a significant disadvantage due to its more dispersed atomic arrangement:
A. to rain
B. silica glass has a more dispersed atomic arrangement, resulting in a significant disadvantage:
B. raining
C. a significant disadvantage of silica glass is that its atomic arrangement is more dispersed:
C. having rained
D. silica glass’s atomic arrangement is more dispersed, resulting in a significant disadvantage:
D. rain

ID: 2dd1b8bf Answer

ID: de3dd17d Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice makes
Choice D is the best answer. "That…[rain] back onto Mars’s surface" is a relative clause that describes the "bits “silica glass’s atomic arrangement” the subject of the sentence and places it immediately after the modifying
of molten rock." Forming the clause requires a conjugated, finite verb, and this is the only choice that provides phrase “compared to that of alumina glass.” In doing so, this choice clearly establishes that silica glass’s
that. atomic arrangement—and not another noun in the sentence—is being compared to the atomic arrangement
(“that”) of alumina glass.
Choice A is incorrect. "To rain" is an infinitive and can’t serve as the main verb of a clause. A conjugated verb
is needed here to form the main verb of the relative clause "that…[rain] back onto Mars’s surface," which Choice A is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “silica glass”
describes the "bits of molten rock." Choice B is incorrect. "Raining" is a present participle and, on its own, can’t immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that silica glass itself (rather than its atomic
serve as the main verb of a clause. A conjugated verb is needed here to form the main verb of the relative arrangement) is being compared to alumina glass’s atomic arrangement. Choice B is incorrect because it
clause "that…[rain] back onto Mars’s surface," which describes the "bits of molten rock." Choice C is incorrect. results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “silica glass” immediately after the
"Having rained" is a perfect participle and can’t serve as the main verb of a clause. A conjugated verb is needed modifying phrase illogically suggests that silica glass itself (rather than its atomic arrangement) is being
here to form the main verb of the relative clause "that…[rain] back onto Mars’s surface," which describes the compared to alumina glass’s atomic arrangement. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a dangling
"bits of molten rock." modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “a significant disadvantage” immediately after the modifying
phrase illogically suggests that “a significant disadvantage” is being compared to alumina glass’s atomic
Question Difficulty: Hard arrangement.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9f737b2a Question ID c52652c9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 9f737b2a ID: c52652c9

In Death Valley National Park’s Racetrack Playa, a flat, dry lakebed, are 162 rocks—some weighing less than a pound The human brain is primed to recognize faces—so much so that, due to a perceptual tendency called pareidolia, ______
but others almost 700 pounds—that move periodically from place to place, seemingly of their own volition. Racetrack- will even find faces in clouds, wooden doors, pieces of fruit, and other faceless inanimate objects. Researcher Susan
like trails in the ______ mysterious migration. Magsamen has focused her work on better understanding this everyday phenomenon.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. playas sediment mark the rock’s A. she

B. playa’s sediment mark the rocks B. they

C. playa’s sediment mark the rocks’ C. it

D. playas’ sediment mark the rocks’ D. those

ID: 9f737b2a Answer ID: c52652c9 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of plural and possessive nouns. The Choice C is the best answer. "It" is a singular pronoun used to stand in for objects. Since the antecedent in this
singular possessive noun “playa’s” and the plural possessive noun “rocks’” correctly indicate that the sediment case is the singular noun phrase "the human brain," "it" is a perfect pronoun to use here.
is that of one playa (the Racetrack Playa) and that there are multiple rocks that have mysteriously migrated
across the sediment. Choice A is incorrect. Although "she" is a singular pronoun, it is reserved for people and animals, not objects
like "the human brain." Choice B is incorrect. "They" is a plural pronoun, but we need a singular pronoun to
Choice A is incorrect because the context requires the singular possessive noun “playa’s” and the plural represent the antecedent "the human brain." Choice D is incorrect. "Those" is a plural pronoun, but we need a
possessive noun “rocks’,” not the plural noun “playas” and the singular possessive noun “rock’s.” Choice B is singular pronoun to represent the antecedent "the human brain."
incorrect because the context requires the plural possessive noun “rocks’,” not the plural noun “rocks.” Choice
D is incorrect because the context requires the singular possessive noun “playa’s,” not the plural possessive Question Difficulty: Medium
noun “playas’.”

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 188f7e3c Question ID 36944347

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 188f7e3c ID: 36944347

In 2016, engineer Vanessa Galvez oversaw the installation of 164 bioswales, vegetated channels designed to absorb Official measurements of the Mississippi River’s length vary: according to the US Geologic Survey, the river is 2,300
and divert stormwater, along the streets of Queens, New York. By reducing the runoff flowing into city sewers, ______ miles long, whereas the Environmental Protection Agency records its length as 2,320 miles. This disparity can be
explained in part by the fact that rivers such as the Mississippi expand and contract as ______ sediment.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. the mitigation of both street flooding and the resulting pollution of nearby waterways has been achieved by
bioswales. A. they accumulate

B. the bioswales have mitigated both street flooding and the resulting pollution of nearby waterways. B. one accumulates

C. the bioswales’ mitigation of both street flooding and the resulting pollution of nearby waterways has been C. it accumulates
achieved.
D. we accumulate
D. both street flooding and the resulting pollution of nearby waterways have been mitigated by bioswales.

ID: 36944347 Answer

ID: 188f7e3c Answer Correct Answer: A
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The noun that goes with "expand and contract" is "rivers," a plural noun. "They" is
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice makes a third-person plural pronoun, so it can correctly stand in for "rivers."
the noun phrase “the bioswales” the subject of the sentence and places it immediately after the modifying
phrase “By reducing…sewers.” In doing so, this choice clearly establishes that the bioswales—and not another Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a pronoun-antecedent agreement error. "One" is a singular pronoun,
noun in the sentence—are reducing runoff flowing into city sewers. but the noun that goes with "expand and contract" is "rivers," a plural noun. Choice C is incorrect. This choice
creates a pronoun-antecedent agreement error. "It" is a singular pronoun, but the noun that goes with "expand
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “the and contract" is "rivers," a plural noun. Choice D is incorrect. This choice creates a pronoun-antecedent
mitigation…waterways” immediately after the modifying phrase results in unclear modification. The resulting agreement error. The noun that goes with "expand and contract" is the plural noun "rivers." Rivers are not
sentence makes it hard to determine what is responsible for “reducing the runoff”: the bioswales or some other people, so "we" can’t be used to stand in for it.
noun in the sentence. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the
noun phrase “the bioswales’ mitigation…waterways” immediately after the modifying phrase results in Question Difficulty: Medium
unclear modification. The resulting sentence makes it hard to determine what is responsible for “reducing the
runoff”: the bioswales or some other noun in the sentence. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a
dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “street flooding and the resulting pollution” immediately
after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that the “flooding and pollution” are reducing runoff flowing
into city sewers.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8d53e7a0 Question ID 61160f0a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 8d53e7a0 ID: 61160f0a

Slam poet Elizabeth Acevedo’s debut novel The Poet X, winner of the 2018 National Book Award for Young People’s Author Madeline L’Engle, ______ to create a suspenseful tone that draws the reader in, begins her novel A Wrinkle in
Literature, is composed of ______ protagonist, fifteen-year-old Xiomara Batista. Time with descriptions of “wraithlike shadows” and “the frenzied lashing of the wind.”

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. poems putatively written by the novel’s A. looked

B. poem’s putatively written by the novel’s B. looks

C. poem’s putatively written by the novels’ C. is looking

D. poems putatively written by the novels’ D. looking

ID: 8d53e7a0 Answer ID: 61160f0a Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. Nothing belongs to the “poems” in the sentence, so it should not be possessive— Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verb forms within a sentence. The
just a simple plural noun. The protagonist does belong to the novel—it’s the protagonist of the novel—so “novel” nonfinite present participle verb “looking” is correctly used to form a subordinate clause that describes the
needs to be a singular possessive noun. intent behind how L’Engle begins her novel.

Choice B is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard Choice A is incorrect because the finite past tense verb “looked” can’t be used in this way to form a subordinate
English. This choice uses the singular possessive “poem’s,” but the text indicates that it should be the simple clause. Choice B is incorrect because the finite present tense verb “looks” can’t be used in this way to form a
plural “poems”: there is more than one poem, and nothing belongs to the poems. Choice C is incorrect. This subordinate clause. Choice C is incorrect because the finite present progressive tense verb “is looking” can’t be
doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard English. This choice uses the used in this way to form a subordinate clause.
singular possessive “poem’s,” but the text indicates that it should be the simple plural “poems”: there is more
than one poem, and nothing belongs to the poems. This choice also uses the plural possessive “novels’,” which Question Difficulty: Hard
is incorrect because there is only one novel. Choice D is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that
conforms to the conventions of Standard English. This choice uses the plural possessive “novels’,” which is
incorrect because there is only one novel, so it should be the singular possessive “novel’s.” .

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 75f49353 Question ID 7a0d9031

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 75f49353 ID: 7a0d9031

The Progressive Era in the United States witnessed the rise of numerous Black women’s clubs, local organizations that In many of her landscape paintings from the 1970s and 1980s, Lebanese American artist Etel Adnan worked to capture
advocated for racial and gender equality. Among the clubs’ leaders ______ Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin, founder of the the essence of California’s fog-shrouded Mount Tamalpais region through abstraction, using splotches of color to
Women’s Era Club of Boston. represent the area’s features. Interestingly, the triangle representing the mountain itself ______ among the few defined
figures in her paintings.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. was
A. are
B. were
B. have been
C. are
C. were
D. have been
D. is

ID: 75f49353 Answer

Correct Answer: A
ID: 7a0d9031 Answer
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested here is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb
“was” agrees in number with the singular subject “Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin.” Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject–verb agreement. The singular verb “is”
agrees in number with the singular subject “the triangle.”
Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb “were” doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject
“Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin.” Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb “are” doesn’t agree in number with Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb “are” doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject “the
the singular subject “Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin.” Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb “have been” triangle.” Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb “have been” doesn’t agree in number with the singular
doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject “Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin.” subject “the triangle.” Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb “were” doesn’t agree in number with the
singular subject “the triangle.”
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question ID d46ac7e7 Question ID 3595a991
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: d46ac7e7 ID: 3595a991

A second-generation Japanese American, Wataru Misaka ______ in World War II (1941-45) and won two amateur In 1930, Japanese American artist Chiura Obata depicted the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park in two
national basketball championships at the University of Utah when he joined the New York Knicks for the 1947-48 memorable woodcuts: Evening at Carl Inn and Lake Basin in the High Sierra. In 2019, ______ exhibited alongside 150 of
season, becoming the first non-white basketball player in the US’s top professional league. Obata’s other works in a single-artist show at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. already served A. it was

B. was already serving B. they were

C. already serves C. this was

D. had already served D. some were

ID: d46ac7e7 Answer ID: 3595a991 Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. Misaka served in World War II before he joined the New York Knicks in 1947. To Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is pronoun–antecedent agreement. The plural
show that a past occurrence took place before another past occurrence, we need to use “had” + the past tense pronoun “they” agrees in number with the plural antecedent “woodcuts” and clearly identifies what was
form of the verb. This is called the past perfect tense. exhibited at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Choice A is incorrect. Misaka served in World War II before he joined the Knicks. Both events are in the past, Choice A is incorrect because the singular pronoun “it” doesn’t agree in number with the plural antecedent
but his service in World War II happened earlier, so we need a verb that makes it clear that his service (and the “woodcuts.” Choice C is incorrect because the singular pronoun “this” doesn’t agree in number with the plural
two national championships) had ended by the time he joined the Knicks. Choice B is incorrect. “Was already antecedent “woodcuts.” Choice D is incorrect because the plural pronoun “some” is illogical in this context
serving” forms the continuous past tense, which we use when we’re showing a past action that was ongoing. (referring to “some” of two woodcuts).
Misaka served in World War II before he joined the Knicks. Both events are in the past, but they’re not
happening at the same time, so we shouldn’t use the continuous past tense here. Choice C is incorrect. Misaka Question Difficulty: Medium
served in World War II in the past, so we shouldn’t use the present tense “serves.”

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d2cf0e11 Question ID 0bcb4417

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: d2cf0e11 ID: 0bcb4417

Inventor John Friedman created a prototype of the first flexible straw by inserting a screw into a paper straw and, using Oglala Lakota poet Layli Long Soldier’s star quilt poems offer an unusually open-ended reading experience. With ______
dental floss, binding the straw tightly around the ______ When the floss and screw were removed, the resulting eight panels of text stitched together in the shape of a traditional eight-pointed Lakota star quilt, the poems present
corrugations in the paper allowed the straw to bend easily over the edge of a glass. viewers with a seemingly infinite number of ways to read them.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. screw’s thread’s. A. their

B. screws’ threads. B. it’s

C. screw’s threads. C. they’re

D. screws threads’. D. its

ID: d2cf0e11 Answer ID: 0bcb4417 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of plural and possessive nouns. The Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of possessive determiners. The plural
singular possessive noun “screw’s” and the plural noun “threads” correctly indicate that there is only one possessive determiner "their" agrees in number with the plural noun "the poems," thus indicating that the
screw and it has multiple threads. poems had eight panels of text stitched together in the shape of a traditional eight-pointed Lakota star quilt.

Choice A is incorrect because the context requires the plural noun “threads,” not the singular possessive noun Choice B is incorrect because "it’s" is the contraction for "it is" or "it has," not a possessive determiner. Choice C
“thread’s.” Choice B is incorrect because the context requires the singular possessive noun “screw’s,” not the is incorrect because "they’re" is the contraction for "they are," not a possessive determiner. Choice D is
plural possessive noun “screws’.” Choice D is incorrect because the context requires the singular possessive incorrect because the singular possessive determiner "its" doesn’t agree in number with the plural noun "the
noun “screw’s” and the plural noun “threads,” not the plural noun “screws” or the plural possessive noun poems."
“threads.’”
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question ID c8607bdf Question ID db2e480a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: c8607bdf ID: db2e480a

“Praise Song for the Day,” Elizabeth Alexander’s 2009 inaugural poem, asserts that “We cross dirt roads and highways… By the time Hawaiian king Kamehameha III ______ the throne, the number of longhorn cattle, first introduced to the
to see what’s on the other side.” Alexander’s use of “we” ______ Americans’ collective efforts and shared desire to seek islands in 1793, had drastically increased, and so too had the need for paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) to manage the wild
new opportunity. herds that then roamed throughout the volcanic terrain.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. evokes A. ascended

B. are evoking B. will ascend

C. have evoked C. ascends

D. evoke D. is ascending

ID: c8607bdf Answer ID: db2e480a Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb Choice A is the best answer. "Ascended" is in the simple past tense. Since Kamehameha became king in the
"evokes" agrees in number with the singular subject "Alexander’s use." past, this makes the most sense.

Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb "are evoking" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject Choice B is incorrect. "Will ascend" is in the future tense, but we wouldn’t know about Kamehameha III’s
"Alexander’s use." Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb "have evoked" doesn’t agree in number with the ascent if it hadn’t happened yet. The information in the sentence, as well as the tense of other verbs, tells us
singular subject "Alexander’s use." Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb "evoke" doesn’t agree in that the events described happened in the past. Choice C is incorrect. "Ascends" is in the simple present tense.
number with the singular subject "Alexander’s use." However, the information in the sentence, as well as the tense of other verbs, tells us that the events described
happened in the past. Choice D is incorrect. "Is ascending" is in the continuous present tense, which we use to
Question Difficulty: Medium show that something is ongoing, but this doesn’t make sense here—the information in the sentence, as well as
the tense of other verbs, tells us that the events described happened in the past.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID a30567fd Question ID 329255db

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: a30567fd ID: 329255db

Nuhād al-Ḥaddād, known as Fairuz, was one of the most beloved Lebanese singers of the twentieth century. Her broad Bengali author Toru Dutt’s A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields (1876), a volume of English translations of French poems,
singing repertoire—which included traditional forms, such as the Arabic qasida and maqam, alongside modern pop ______ scholars’ understanding of the transnational and multilingual contexts in which Dutt lived and worked.
and jazz styles—lent Fairuz a timeless, cross-generational appeal, ______ her the moniker “the soul of Lebanon.”
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. has enhanced
A. earned
B. are enhancing
B. had earned
C. have enhanced
C. earning
D. enhance
D. earn

ID: 329255db Answer

ID: a30567fd Answer Correct Answer: A
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb “has
Choice C is the best answer. The word "earning" is being used to introduce an additional modifying phrase, enhanced” agrees in number with the singular subject “A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields,” which is the title of
which describes how Fairuz’s repertoire lent her cross-generational appeal. When a verb ends in -ing and a book of poems.
doesn’t have a helper verb like "is" before it, it can be used to modify a noun or verb. This is appropriate here.
Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb “are enhancing” doesn’t agree in number with the singular
Choice A is incorrect. The underlined verb is being used to introduce additional descriptive information, subject “A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields.” Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb “have enhanced”
which is set off from the rest of the sentence by a comma. Because there is no subject here, a finite form of the doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject “A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields.” Choice D is incorrect
verb (like "earned") creates an error. We need another form of the verb that doesn’t require a subject and can because the plural verb “enhance” doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject “A Sheaf Gleaned in
introduce descriptive information. Choice B is incorrect. The underlined verb is being used to introduce French Fields.”
additional descriptive information, which is set off from the rest of the sentence by a comma. Because there is
no subject here, a finite form of the verb (like "had earned") creates an error. We need another form of the verb Question Difficulty: Hard
that doesn’t require a subject and can introduce descriptive information. Choice D is incorrect. The underlined
verb is being used to introduce additional descriptive information, which is set off from the rest of the
sentence by a comma. Because there is no subject here, a finite form of the verb (like "earn") creates an error.
We need another form of the verb that doesn’t require a subject and can introduce descriptive information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 50801257 Question ID a14eef71
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 50801257 ID: a14eef71

In 1994, almost 200 years after the death of Wang Zhenyi, the International Astronomical ______ the contributions of In 2015, a team led by materials scientists Anirudha Sumant and Diana Berman succeeded in reducing the coefficient
the barrier-breaking 18th-century astronomer and author of “Dispute of the Procession of the Equinoxes,” naming a of friction (COF) between two surfaces to the lowest possible level—superlubricity. A nearly frictionless (and, as its
crater on Venus after her. name suggests, extremely slippery) state, ______

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Union would finally acknowledge A. when their COF drops below 0.01, two surfaces reach superlubricity.

B. Union to finally acknowledge B. two surfaces, when their COF drops below 0.01, reach superlubricity.

C. Union, having finally acknowledged C. reaching superlubricity occurs when two surfaces’ COF drops below 0.01.

D. Union, finally acknowledging D. superlubricity is reached when two surfaces’ COF drops below 0.01.

ID: 50801257 Answer ID: a14eef71 Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. It’s the only choice that offers a form of the verb “acknowledge” that can go with Choice D is the best answer. The subject of the modifier “a nearly frictionless state” is “superlubricity.” Subject-
the subject “International Astronomical Union” to make a complete sentence. This might seem like an odd use modifier placement requires a modifier and its subject to be next to one another, so “superlubricity” must be
of “would,” but when speaking from a point of view in the past, we can actually use “would” to express the first word in the missing clause.
something that happened later. That’s the case here: 200 years after Wang Zhenyi’s death, the IAU would finally
acknowledge her contributions. Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a subject-modifier placement error. The subject of the modifier “a
nearly frictionless state” is “superlubricity.” Subject-modifier placement requires a modifier and its subject to
Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a sentence fragment. There’s no main verb elsewhere in the be next to one another, so “superlubricity” must be the first word in the missing clause. Choice B is incorrect.
sentence, so we need a form of the verb “acknowledge” that can go with the subject “the International This choice creates a subject-modifier placement error. The subject of the modifier “a nearly frictionless state”
Astronomical Union” and serve as that main verb. “To acknowledge” can’t do that. Choice C is incorrect. This is “superlubricity.” Subject-modifier placement requires a modifier and its subject to be next to one another, so
choice creates a sentence fragment. There’s no main verb elsewhere in the sentence, so we need a form of the “superlubricity” must be the first word in the missing clause. Choice C is incorrect. This choice creates a
verb “acknowledge” that can go with the subject “the International Astronomical Union” and serve as that subject-modifier placement error. The subject of the modifier “a nearly frictionless state” is “superlubricity.”
main verb. “Having acknowledged” can’t do that. Choice D is incorrect. This choice creates a sentence Subject-modifier placement requires a modifier and its subject to be next to one another, so “superlubricity”
fragment. There’s no main verb elsewhere in the sentence, so we need a form of the verb “acknowledge” that must be the first word in the missing clause.
can go with the subject “the International Astronomical Union” and serve as that main verb. The “-ing” form
can’t do that. Question Difficulty: Hard

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b85c19ed Question ID d073983d

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: b85c19ed ID: d073983d

The violins handmade in the seventeeth century by Italian craftsman Antonio Stradivari have been celebrated as some Known for her massive photorealistic paintings of African American figures floating or swimming in pools, Calida Garcia
of the finest in the world. In close collaboration with musicians, Stradivari introduced changes to the shape of a ______ was the logical choice to design the book cover for Ta-Nehisi Coates’s The Water Dancer, a novel about an
traditional violin, flattening some of the instrument’s curves and making ______ lighter overall. African American man who can travel great distances through water.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. those A. Rawles—

B. one B. Rawles:

C. them C. Rawles,

D. it D. Rawles

ID: b85c19ed Answer ID: d073983d Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is pronoun–antecedent agreement. The singular Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a subject and a verb. When,
pronoun “it” agrees in number with the singular antecedent “violin” and thus indicates that the traditional as in this case, a subject (“Calida Garcia Rawles”) is immediately followed by a verb (“was”), no punctuation is
violin (and not its curves) was made lighter. needed.

Choice A is incorrect because the plural pronoun “those” doesn’t agree in number with the singular antecedent Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice B is
“violin.” Choice B is incorrect because the singular pronoun “one” is ambiguous in this context; the resulting incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice C is incorrect because no
sentence leaves unclear what Stradivari made lighter. Choice C is incorrect because the plural pronoun “them” punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb.
doesn’t agree in number with the singular antecedent “violin.”
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question Difficulty: Medium
Question ID 8a9d2f4e Question ID dfbf5d33
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 8a9d2f4e ID: dfbf5d33

Researchers studying the “terra-cotta army,” the thousands of life-size statues of warriors found interred near the tomb In 1453, English King Henry VI became unfit to rule after falling gravely ill. As a result, Parliament appointed Richard,
of Emperor Qin Shi Huang of China, were shocked to realize that the shape of each statue’s ears, like the shape of each Third Duke of York, who had a strong claim to the English throne, to rule as Lord Protector. Upon recovering two years
person’s ears, ______ unique. later, ______ forcing an angered Richard from the royal court and precipitating a series of battles later known as the
Wars of the Roses.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. are
A. Henry resumed his reign,
B. is
B. the reign of Henry resumed,
C. were
C. Henry’s reign resumed,
D. have been
D. it was Henry who resumed his reign,

ID: 8a9d2f4e Answer

Correct Answer: B
ID: dfbf5d33 Answer
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject–verb agreement. because the singular verb
“is” agrees in number with the singular subject “the shape.” Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice ensures
that the introductory phrase “upon recovering two years later” appears immediately before the noun it
Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb “are” doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject “the modifies (“Henry”), clearly establishing that Henry recovered two years later.
shape.” Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb “were” doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject
“the shape.” Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb “have been” doesn’t agree in number with the Choice B is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “the reign of
singular subject “the shape.” Henry” immediately after the introductory phrase illogically suggests that the reign of Henry recovered two
years later. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase
Question Difficulty: Hard “Henry’s reign” immediately after the introductory phrase illogically suggests that Henry’s reign recovered two
years later. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the function word
“it” immediately after the introductory phrase illogically suggests that “it” recovered two years later.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3daf126e Question ID e38b3e4f

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 3daf126e ID: e38b3e4f

A model created by biologist Luis Valente predicts that the rate of speciation—the rate at which new species form—on The radiation that ______ during the decay of radioactive atomic nuclei is known as gamma radiation.
an isolated island located approximately 5,000 kilometers from the nearest mainland ______ triple the rate of speciation
on an island only 500 kilometers from the mainland. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. occurs
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
B. have occurred
A. being
C. occur
B. to be
D. are occurring
C. to have been

D. will be
ID: e38b3e4f Answer
Correct Answer: A
ID: 3daf126e Answer
Rationale
Correct Answer: D

Rationale Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb
"occurs" agrees in number with the singular subject "radiation."
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is finite and nonfinite verb forms within a sentence.
Relative clauses, such as the one beginning with “that,” require a finite verb, a verb that can function as the Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb "have occurred" doesn’t agree in number with the singular
main verb of a clause. This choice correctly supplies the clause with the finite future tense verb “will be.” subject "radiation." Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb "occur" doesn’t agree in number with the
singular subject "radiation." Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb "are occurring" doesn’t agree in
Choice A is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “being” doesn’t supply the clause with a finite verb. number with the singular subject "radiation."
Choice B is incorrect because the nonfinite to-infinitive “to be” doesn’t supply the clause with a finite verb.
Choice C is incorrect because the nonfinite to-infinitive “to have been” doesn’t supply the clause with a finite Question Difficulty: Easy
verb.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID de55ec71 Question ID 3580533b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: de55ec71 ID: 3580533b

Generations of mystery and horror ______ have been influenced by the dark, gothic stories of celebrated American In recent years, economists around the world have created new tools that quantify the overall well-being of a country’s
author Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849). citizens. Economists in India, for example, use an Ease of Living Index. This tool ______ economic potential,
sustainability, and citizens’ quality of life.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. writers
A. measures
B. writers,
B. had measured
C. writers—
C. would have measured
D. writers;
D. will have been measuring

ID: de55ec71 Answer

Correct Answer: A
ID: 3580533b Answer
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a subject and a verb. When,
as in this case, a subject (“Generations of mystery and horror writers”) is immediately followed by a verb (“have Choice A is the best answer. The previous sentence tells us how economists in India "use" a certain tool, while
been influenced”), no punctuation is needed. this sentence describes general facts about that tool. To express general facts (and also to match the simple
present tense of "use"), we should use the simple present tense form "measures."
Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice C is incorrect
because no punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. Choice D is incorrect because no Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses the past perfect tense, but the previous sentence tells us that the tool is
punctuation is needed between the subject and the verb. currently used to measure things, so the past tense doesn’t make sense for this verb. Choice C is incorrect.
This choice uses the future perfect conditional tense, but the previous sentence tells us that the tool is
Question Difficulty: Easy currently used to measure things, so the future tense doesn’t make sense for this verb. Choice D is incorrect.
This choice uses the future perfect continuous tense, but the previous sentence tells us that the tool is
currently used to measure things, so the future tense doesn’t make sense for this verb.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID b7363ba2 Question ID 333b2b65

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: b7363ba2 ID: 333b2b65

Mathematician and meteorologist Edward Lorenz used the metaphor of the “butterfly effect” to explain how seemingly While one requires oxygen and one does ______ and anaerobic respiration are both forms of cellular respiration—that
minor events can have major impacts on future weather. According to Lorenz’s metaphor, the wind from a butterfly is, they are processes by which cells break down glucose to use as energy.
flapping ______ in Brazil might eventually grow into a storm elsewhere across the globe.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. not aerobic
A. its wings
B. not. Aerobic
B. its wings’
C. not, aerobic
C. it’s wing’s
D. not; aerobic
D. it’s wings’

ID: 333b2b65 Answer

ID: b7363ba2 Answer Correct Answer: C
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. A comma is the appropriate way to link the dependent clause “While...not” and the
Choice A is the best answer. The conventions being tested are the use of possessive determiners and plural independent clause that follows.
nouns. The singular possessive determiner "its" and the plural noun "wings" correctly indicate that the
butterfly has multiple wings. Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a run-on sentence error. “While...not” is a dependent clause, which
must be separated from the independent clause that follows with some sort of punctuation. Choice B is
Choice B is incorrect because the context requires the plural noun "wings," not the plural possessive noun incorrect. This choice creates a sentence fragment. “While one requires oxygen and one does not” isn’t an
"wings’." Choice C is incorrect because the context requires the singular possessive determiner "its" and the independent clause, so it can’t stand alone as a complete sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This choice creates a
plural noun "wings," not the contraction "it’s" and the singular possessive noun "wing’s." Choice D is incorrect punctuation error. “While one requires oxygen and one does not” isn’t an independent clause, so it can’t be
because the context requires the singular possessive determiner "its" and the plural noun "wings," not the linked to the clause that follows with a semicolon.
contraction "it’s" and the plural possessive noun "wings’."
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question ID 7b419faf Question ID 148be4da
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 7b419faf ID: 148be4da

In 1903, environmentalist John Muir guided President Theodore Roosevelt on a scenic, sprawling trip through Human-made (synthetic) fibers used in clothes and many other consumer products are more durable than most
California’s Yosemite Valley. Upon returning from the three-day excursion, Roosevelt ______ to conserve the nation’s natural plant ______ the manufacture of synthetic fibers requires toxic chemical solvents that can pollute air and water.
wilderness areas, a vow he upheld for his remaining six years in office.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. fibers,
A. is vowing
B. fibers but
B. vowed
C. fibers
C. will vow
D. fibers, but
D. vows

ID: 148be4da Answer

ID: 7b419faf Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense in a sentence. In sentence. This choice correctly uses a comma and the coordinating conjunction “but” to join the first main
this choice, the past tense verb “vowed” is consistent with the other past tense verbs (“guided” and “upheld”) clause (“Human-made...fibers”) and the second main clause (“the manufacture...water”).
used to narrate the events surrounding President Roosevelt’s decision to conserve the nation’s wilderness
areas. Choice A is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t
be used in this way to join two main clauses. Choice B is incorrect because when coordinating two longer
Choice A is incorrect because the present progressive tense verb “is vowing” isn’t consistent with the past main clauses such as these, it’s conventional to use a comma before the coordinating conjunction. Choice C is
tense verbs used to narrate the events surrounding President Roosevelt’s decision to conserve the nation’s incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two main clauses are fused without punctuation and/or
wilderness areas. Choice C is incorrect because the future tense verb “will vow” isn’t consistent with the past a conjunction.
tense verbs used to narrate the events surrounding President Roosevelt’s decision to conserve the nation’s
wilderness areas. Choice D is incorrect because the simple present tense verb “vows” isn’t consistent with the Question Difficulty: Easy
past tense verbs used to narrate the events surrounding President Roosevelt’s decision to conserve the
nation’s wilderness areas.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 983d33fa Question ID 52b61716

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 983d33fa ID: 52b61716

In 1637, the price of tulips skyrocketed in Amsterdam, with single bulbs of rare varieties selling for up to the equivalent Formed in 1967 to foster political and economic stability within the Asia-Pacific region, the Association of Southeast
of $200,000 in today’s US dollars. Some historians ______ that this “tulip mania” was the first historical instance of an Asian Nations was originally made up of five members: Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
asset bubble, which occurs when investors drive prices to highs not supported by actual demand. By the end of the 1990s, the organization ______ its initial membership.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. claiming A. has doubled

B. claim B. had doubled

C. having claimed C. doubles

D. to claim D. will double

ID: 983d33fa Answer ID: 52b61716 Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of finite and nonfinite verb forms within a Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense. In this choice,
sentence. A main clause requires a finite verb to perform the action of the subject (in this case, “some the past perfect verb “had doubled” properly indicates that the doubling of the organization’s initial
historians”), and this choice supplies the finite present tense verb “claim” to indicate what some historians do. membership occurred during a specific period before the present (between the organization’s founding in 1967
and the end of the 1990s).
Choice A is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “claiming” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite
verb. Choice C is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “having claimed” doesn’t supply the main clause Choice A is incorrect because the present perfect verb “has doubled” doesn’t indicate that the organization’s
with a finite verb. Choice D is incorrect because the nonfinite to-infinitive “to claim” doesn’t supply the main doubling of its initial membership occurred during a specific period in the past. Choice C is incorrect because
clause with a finite verb. the present tense verb “doubles” doesn’t indicate that the organization’s doubling of its initial membership
occurred during a specific period in the past. Choice D is incorrect because the future tense verb “will double”
Question Difficulty: Easy doesn’t indicate that the organization’s doubling of its initial membership occurred during a specific period in
the past.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 96c720af Question ID dbd78791
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 96c720af ID: dbd78791

Atoms in a synchrotron, a type of circular particle accelerator, travel faster and faster until they ______ a desired energy Led by Syrian American astronomer Shadia Habbal, the Solar Wind Sherpas are an intrepid team of scientists who
level, at which point they are diverted to collide with a target, smashing the atoms. travel the globe to study solar winds, the streams of particles emanating from the Sun that are only visible from certain
locations during a total solar eclipse. When such an eclipse is imminent, the Sherpas pack up their telescopes and
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? ______ ready.
A. will reach
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
B. reach
A. get
C. had reached
B. had gotten
D. are reaching
C. got

D. were getting
ID: 96c720af Answer
Correct Answer: B
ID: dbd78791 Answer
Rationale
Correct Answer: A
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense in a sentence. In Rationale
this choice, the present tense verb “reach” is consistent with the present tense verbs “travel” and “are diverted”
used to describe how atoms move through the synchrotron. Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense in a sentence. In
this choice, the present tense verb “get” is consistent with the other present tense verbs (“are,” “travel,” and
Choice A is incorrect because the future tense verb “will reach” is inconsistent with the present tense verbs “pack”) used to describe the Sherpas and their activities.
used to describe how atoms move through the synchrotron. Though the atoms’ movement is a recurring action
and “will reach” can also be used to indicate a habitual or recurring action, it creates a logical inconsistency in Choice B is incorrect. The past perfect verb “had gotten” isn’t consistent with the other present tense verbs
this sentence when paired with the present tense verbs “travel” and “are diverted.” Choice C is incorrect used to describe the Sherpas and their activities. Choice C is incorrect. The past tense verb “got” isn’t
because the past perfect tense verb “had reached” is inconsistent with the present tense verbs used to consistent with the other present tense verbs used to describe the Sherpas and their activities. Choice D is
describe how atoms move through the synchrotron. Choice D is incorrect because the present progressive incorrect. The past progressive verb “were getting” isn’t consistent with the other present tense verbs used to
tense verb “are reaching” is inconsistent with the present tense verbs used to describe how atoms move describe the Sherpas and their activities.
through the synchrotron. While both verbs occur in the present, the present progressive tense suggests that
the action is currently in progress. This creates a logical inconsistency when paired with the present tense Question Difficulty: Easy
verbs “travel” and “are diverted,” which offer a general description of the tendencies of the atoms’ movement,
rather than a description of an action that is currently in progress.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 9091458d Question ID 77bf77cd

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: 9091458d ID: 77bf77cd

Emperor penguins don’t waddle out of the ocean. They launch themselves at such a high speed that they travel up to Farouk El-Baz, a geologist and space scientist, ______ part of the team that selected the lunar landing sites for the
two meters before landing. How ______ A layer of microbubbles on their plumage reduces friction as the penguins Apollo program during the 1960s and 1970s.
speed to the surface.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. are
A. they are able to move so fast!
B. was
B. are they able to move so fast.
C. have been
C. they are able to move so fast.
D. were
D. are they able to move so fast?

ID: 77bf77cd Answer

ID: 9091458d Answer Correct Answer: B
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb "was"
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is end-of-sentence punctuation. This choice agrees in number with the singular subject "Farouk El-Baz."
correctly uses a question mark to punctuate the interrogative sentence “how are they able to move so fast?”
The interrogative sentence asks a direct question, and the next sentence answers it. Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb "are" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject "Farouk
El-Baz." Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb "have been" doesn’t agree in number with the singular
Choice A is incorrect because the context requires an interrogative sentence. The exclamative sentence “how subject "Farouk El-Baz." Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb "were" doesn’t agree in number with the
they are able to move so fast!” emphasizes the penguin’s high rate of speed, but it doesn’t set up the next singular subject "Farouk El-Baz."
sentence’s explanation of how the penguins achieve such speeds. Choice B is incorrect because a period can’t
be used in this way to punctuate an interrogative sentence. Choice C is incorrect because the context requires Question Difficulty: Easy
an interrogative sentence. The exclamative sentence “how they are able to move so fast” emphasizes the
penguin’s high rate of speed, but it doesn’t set up the next sentence’s explanation of how the penguins achieve
such speeds.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 57998dd3 Question ID 6fece68e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 57998dd3 ID: 6fece68e

Obsidian is a kind of volcanic glass formed when lava cools so quickly that the atoms inside it cannot arrange Emperor Ashoka ruled the Maurya Empire in South Asia from roughly 270 to 232 BCE. He is known for enforcing a
themselves in a crystalline structure. You ______ more about obsidian’s structure, which is classified as amorphous, in a moral code called the Law of Piety, which established the sanctity of animal ______ the just treatment of the elderly, and
later chapter. the abolition of the slave trade.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. had learned A. life

B. had been learning B. life;

C. will learn C. life:

D. have learned D. life,

ID: 57998dd3 Answer ID: 6fece68e Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense in a sentence. In Choice D is the best answer. Notice that "the sanctity of animal life" is the first item in a list of three things. We
this choice, the future tense verb “will learn,” used in conjunction with the phrase “in a later chapter,” correctly must use a comma to separate the first two items in the list, just as a comma is used to separate "the just
indicates that “you” (the reader) are going to learn about obsidian’s structure at some point in the future. treatment of the elderly" and "the abolition of the slave trade."

Choice A is incorrect because the past perfect verb “had learned” doesn’t indicate that the subject is going to Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. Notice that "the sanctity of animal life" is the
learn about obsidian’s structure in the future. Choice B is incorrect because the past perfect progressive verb first item in a list of three things. To appropriately format the list, we need punctuation to separate each item.
“had been learning” doesn’t indicate that the subject is going to learn about obsidian’s structure in the future. Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. Notice that "the sanctity of animal life" is the
Choice D is incorrect because the present perfect verb “have learned” doesn’t indicate that the subject is going first item in a list of three things. While semicolons are sometimes used to separate list items, this list uses
to learn about obsidian’s structure in the future. commas to separate the other list items, and lists must use the same punctuation throughout. Choice C is
incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. Notice that "the sanctity of animal life" is the first item in a
Question Difficulty: Easy list of three things. While colons can be used to introduce lists, they can’t be used to separate items within a
list.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID db4e3819 Question ID 166efaa2

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: db4e3819 ID: 166efaa2

Midway through her 1968 jazz album A Monastic Trio, Alice Coltrane switches instruments, swapping the piano for the Public-awareness campaigns about the need to reduce single-use plastics can be successful, says researcher Kim Borg
harp. With the same fluid style that Coltrane was famous for on piano, she ______ her fingers across the harp strings of Monash University in Australia, when these campaigns give consumers a choice: for example, Japan achieved a 40
and creates a radiant sound. percent reduction in plastic-bag use after cashiers were instructed to ask customers whether ______ wanted a bag.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. sweep A. they

B. are sweeping B. one

C. were sweeping C. you

D. sweeps D. it

ID: db4e3819 Answer ID: 166efaa2 Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is pronoun–antecedent agreement. The plural
"sweeps" agrees in number with the singular subject "she," which refers to Alice Coltrane. pronoun “they” agrees in number with the plural antecedent “customers.”

Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb "sweep" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject "she." Choice B is incorrect because the singular pronoun “one” doesn’t agree in number with the plural antecedent
Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb "are sweeping" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject “customers.” Choice C is incorrect because the second person pronoun “you” isn’t conventional as a substitute
"she." Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb "were sweeping" doesn’t agree in number with the singular for “customers.” It suggests that the audience (“you”) is the customer. Choice D is incorrect because the
subject "she." singular pronoun “it” doesn’t agree in number with the plural antecedent “customers.”

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 1724dac2 Question ID d47bb0a4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: 1724dac2 ID: d47bb0a4

A subseasonal weather forecast attempts to predict weather conditions three to four weeks in ______ its predictions are Objects ranging from the Kikkoman soy sauce bottle to the Yamaha VMAX motorcycle to the Komachi bullet train
therefore more short-term than those of the seasonal forecast, which attempts to predict the weather more than a ______ designed by twentieth-century industrial designer Kenji Ekuan.
month in advance.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. was
A. advance,
B. is
B. advance
C. has been
C. advance;
D. were
D. advance and

ID: d47bb0a4 Answer

ID: 1724dac2 Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The plural verb "were"
Choice C is the best answer. The clause “A subseasonal…advance” and the clause “its predictions…forecast” are agrees in number with the plural subject "objects."
both independent clauses, so using a semicolon to separate them is grammatically correct.
Choice A is incorrect because the singular verb "was" doesn’t agree in number with the plural subject "objects."
Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a run-on sentence error. The clause “A subseasonal…advance” and Choice B is incorrect because the singular verb "is" doesn’t agree in number with the plural subject "objects."
the clause “its predictions…forecast” are both independent clauses, so a comma is not enough to separate Choice C is incorrect because the singular verb "has been" doesn’t agree in number with the plural subject
them. Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a run-on sentence error. The clause “A subseasonal…advance” "objects."
and the clause “its predictions…forecast” are both independent clauses, so they need to be separated with
specific punctuation (a period, a semi-colon, a colon, a dash, or a comma + a coordinating conjunction). Choice Question Difficulty: Easy
D is incorrect. This choice creates a run-on sentence error. The clause “A subseasonal…advance” and the
clause “its predictions…forecast” are both independent clauses, so the word “and” by itself is not enough to
separate them. There would need to be a comma before “and” for this choice to work.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID e3b72630 Question ID a1e0c981

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: e3b72630 ID: a1e0c981

In the historical novel The Surrender Tree, Cuban American author Margarita Engle uses poetry rather than prose ______ In her book The Woman Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts, author Maxine Hong Kingston examines
the true story of Cuban folk hero Rosa La Bayamesa. themes ______ childhood, womanhood, and Chinese American identity by intertwining autobiography and mythology.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. tells A. of:

B. told B. of

C. is telling C. of—

D. to tell D. of,

ID: e3b72630 Answer ID: a1e0c981 Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of finite and nonfinite verb forms within a Choice B is the best answer. “Themes of childhood” is one noun phrase, with “themes of” implicitly carrying
sentence. The nonfinite to-infinitive “to tell” is correctly used to form a nonfinite (infinitive) clause that over to the other items on the list (“themes of childhood, [themes of] womanhood, and [themes of] Chinese
explains the reason Engle uses poetry in her novel. American identity”).

Choice A is incorrect because the finite present tense verb “tells” can’t be used in this way to explain the Choice A is incorrect. This choice inappropriately breaks up the introduction of a list. Also, “In her book…
reason that Engle uses poetry in her novel. Choice B is incorrect because the finite past tense verb “told” can’t themes of” is not an independent clause, thanks to the dangling “of” at the end, so it can’t precede a
be used in this way to explain the reason that Engle uses poetry in her novel. Choice C is incorrect because the colon. Choice C is incorrect. This choice inappropriately breaks up the introduction of a list. Also, “In her
finite present progressive tense verb “is telling” can’t be used in this way to explain the reason that Engle uses book…themes of” is not an independent clause, thanks to the dangling “of” at the end, so it can’t precede a
poetry in her novel. single dash. Choice D is incorrect. This choice inappropriately breaks up the introduction of a list. “Themes of”
implicitly carries over to each item on the list (“themes of childhood, [themes of] womanhood, and [themes of]
Question Difficulty: Easy Chinese American identity”), so we don’t want to use a comma to separate it.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID b35cefb7 Question ID 3a35ddd1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: b35cefb7 ID: 3a35ddd1

The fine, powdery substance that covers the Moon’s surface is called regolith. Because regolith is both readily available Like other amphibians, the wood frog (Rana sylvatica) is unable to generate its own heat, so during periods of
and high in oxygen ______ scientists have wondered whether it could be used as a potential source of oxygen for future subfreezing temperatures, it ______ by producing large amounts of glucose, a sugar that helps prevent damaging ice
lunar settlements. from forming inside its cells.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. content and A. had survived

B. content, B. survived

C. content C. would survive

D. content, and D. survives

ID: b35cefb7 Answer ID: 3a35ddd1 Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a subordinate clause and a Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense. In this choice,
main clause. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the subordinate clause the present tense verb “survives” correctly indicates that the wood frog regularly survives subfreezing
(“Because...content”) and the main clause (“scientists...settlements”). temperatures by producing large amounts of glucose.

Choice A is incorrect. Joining the subordinate clause (“Because...content”) and the clause that follows Choice A is incorrect because the past perfect verb “had survived” doesn’t indicate that the wood frog regularly
(“scientists...settlements”) with the conjunction “and” results in an ungrammatical sentence that lacks a main survives subfreezing temperatures by producing large amounts of glucose. Choice B is incorrect because the
clause. Choice C is incorrect because it fails to mark the boundary between the subordinate clause and the past tense verb “survived” doesn’t indicate that the wood frog regularly survives subfreezing temperatures by
main clause with appropriate punctuation. Choice D is incorrect. Joining the subordinate clause producing large amounts of glucose. Choice C is incorrect because the conditional verb “would survive” doesn’t
(“Because...content”) and the clause that follows (“scientists...settlements”) with a comma and the conjunction indicate that the wood frog regularly survives subfreezing temperatures by producing large amounts of
“and” results in an ungrammatical sentence that lacks a main clause. glucose.

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 69f031ab Question ID aab78b25

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 69f031ab ID: aab78b25

While exploring Nevada’s Gypsum Cave in 1930, Seneca and Abenaki archaeologist Bertha Parker made her most Psychophysicist Howard Moskowitz was hired by a soda company to determine how much artificial sweetener ______
famous discovery: the skull of a now-extinct ground sloth (Nothrotheriops shastensis) alongside human-made tools. After conducting consumer taste tests, he found that no such ideal existed: participants expressed a wide range of
Parker’s crucial finding was the first ______ humans in North America as far back as 10,000 years ago. preferences for different blends of sweetener, carbonization, and flavoring.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. places A. do most people prefer in a diet drink?

B. placed B. do most people prefer in a diet drink.

C. place C. most people prefer in a diet drink?

D. to place D. most people prefer in a diet drink.

ID: 69f031ab Answer ID: aab78b25 Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The object for the verb "was" is "first," and "to place" is acting as a modifier for Choice D is the best answer. This sentence is a statement: “Moskowitz was hired by a soda company to
"first." What was the finding? It was "the first." The first to do what? The first "to place humans in North determine how much artificial sweetener most people prefer in a diet drink.” So a period is the most
America" 10,000 years ago. When a verb serves as a modifier within a noun phrase, it must be nonfinite (i.e., not appropriate punctuation mark.
conjugated to a specific subject). The infinitive form "to place" is the only nonfinite option among the choices
that makes sense in context. Choice A is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard
English. This sentence is not a question—it’s a statement. So a question mark is not the appropriate
Choice A is incorrect. The object for the verb "was" is "first," and "places" is acting as a modifier for "first." What punctuation. Choice B is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of
was the thing that Parker’s finding did? What was it the first to do? Place humans in North America 10,000 Standard English. We already have the verbs “was hired…to determine” in this sentence. The verb “do” is not
years ago. When a verb acts as a modifier, it must be nonfinite (i.e., not conjugated to a specific subject), but needed and results in a confusing, ungrammatical sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the
"places" is a finite form of the verb. Choice B is incorrect. The object for the verb "was" is "first," and "placed" is text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard English. This sentence is not a question—it’s a
acting to modify "first." What was it that Parker’s finding was the first to do? Place humans in North America statement. So a question mark is not the appropriate punctuation.
10,000 years ago. When a verb acts as a modifier, it must be nonfinite (i.e., not conjugated to a specific subject),
but "placed" is a finite form. "Placed" can also be a past participle, but that wouldn’t make sense here because Question Difficulty: Easy
the meaning of "the first placed humans" would be unclear. Choice C is incorrect. The object for the verb "was"
is "first," and "place" is modifying "first." What was the thing that Parker’s finding did? What was it the first to
do? Place humans in North America. When a verb acts as a modifier, it must be nonfinite (i.e., not conjugated to
a specific subject), but "place" is a finite form of the verb. Additionally, "place" can’t serve as a noun here,
because it results in an illogical sentence (the "finding" wasn’t "the first place").

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 843f92af Question ID 430d929a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 843f92af ID: 430d929a

The sun never sets during the Arctic summer in the Far North. In response, reindeer in this region must change their British scientists James Watson and Francis Crick won the Nobel Prize in part for their 1953 paper announcing the
sleep habits. Instead of resting when it gets dark, they rest when they need ______ their food. double helix structure of DNA, but it is misleading to say that Watson and Crick discovered the double helix. ______
findings were based on a famous X-ray image of DNA fibers, “Photo 51,” developed by X-ray crystallographer Rosalind
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Franklin and her graduate student Raymond Gosling.
A. digest
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
B. will digest
A. They’re
C. to digest
B. It’s
D. digesting
C. Their

D. Its
ID: 843f92af Answer
Correct Answer: C
ID: 430d929a Answer
Rationale
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of nonfinite verb forms within a sentence. Rationale
Working together with the finite verb "need," the nonfinite to-infinitive verb "to digest" is correctly used to form
a subordinate clause that describes what the reindeer need. Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of possessive determiners. The plural
possessive determiner “their” agrees in number with the plural conjoined noun phrase “Watson and Crick” and
Choice A is incorrect because the verb "digest" (in either its finite or nonfinite form) can’t be used in this way thus indicates that the findings were those of Watson and Crick.
with the finite verb "need." Choice B is incorrect because the finite verb "will digest" can’t be used in this way
with the finite verb "need." Choice D is incorrect because the nonfinite participle "digesting" can’t be used in Choice A is incorrect because “they’re” is the contraction for “they are,” not a possessive determiner. Choice B
this way with the finite verb "need." is incorrect because “it’s” is the contraction for “it is” or “it has,” not a possessive determiner. Choice D is
incorrect because the singular possessive determiner “its” doesn’t agree in number with the plural conjoined
Question Difficulty: Easy noun phrase “Watson and Crick.”

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 70ced8dc Question ID 8a3998f1

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 70ced8dc ID: 8a3998f1

Typically, underlines, scribbles, and notes left in the margins by a former owner lower a book’s ______ when the former After the United Kingdom began rolling out taxes equivalent to a few cents on single-use plastic grocery bags in 2011,
owner is a famous poet like Walt Whitman, such markings, known as marginalia, can be a gold mine to literary scholars. plastic-bag consumption decreased by up to ninety ______ taxes are subject to what economists call the “rebound
effect”: as the change became normalized, plastic-bag use started to creep back up.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. value, but
A. percent, such
B. value
B. percent and such
C. value,
C. percent. Such
D. value but
D. percent such

ID: 70ced8dc Answer

Correct Answer: A
ID: 8a3998f1 Answer
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of independent clauses within a
sentence. An independent clause is a phrase containing a subject and a verb that can stand on its own as a Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this choice,
sentence. This choice uses a comma and the coordinating conjunction “but” to join the first independent the period after “percent” is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence (“After…percent”) and
clause (“underlines…lower a book’s value”) and the second independent clause (“such markings…can be a gold another (“Such…up”).
mine to scholars”) to create a compound sentence.
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to mark the
Choice B is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two independent clauses are fused without boundary between sentences. Choice B is incorrect. Without a comma preceding it, the conjunction “and” can’t
punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to join sentences. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The
be used in this way to mark the boundary between two independent clauses. Choice D is incorrect because a sentences (“After…percent” and “Such…up”) are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction.
comma is needed to mark the boundary between two coordinated independent clauses.
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question ID 4bed4658 Question ID 96953201
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 4bed4658 ID: 96953201

In order to prevent nonnative fish species from moving freely between the Mediterranean and Red Seas, marine In her two major series “Memory Test” and “Autobiography,” painter Howardena Pindell explored themes ______
biologist Bella Galil has proposed that a saline lock system be installed along the Suez Canal in Egypt’s Great Bitter healing, self-discovery, and memory by cutting and sewing back together pieces of canvas and inserting personal
Lakes. The lock would increase the salinity of the lakes and ______ a natural barrier of water most marine creatures artifacts, such as postcards, into some of the paintings.
would be unable to cross.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. of
A. creates
B. of,
B. create
C. of—
C. creating
D. of:
D. created

ID: 96953201 Answer

ID: 4bed4658 Answer Correct Answer: A
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a preposition and its
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of non-finite (untensed) verb forms in a complement. No punctuation is needed between the preposition “of” and its complement, the noun phrase
sentence. The modal “would,” which indicates the future from a perspective in the past, should be “healing, self-discovery, and memory.”
accompanied by a non-finite plain form verb. In this choice, the non-finite plain form verb “create” is used
correctly in conjunction with the non-finite plain form verb “increase” to describe what the lock would do. Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between a preposition and its complement. Choice C is
incorrect because no punctuation is needed between a preposition and its complement. Choice D is incorrect
Choice A is incorrect because the finite present tense verb “creates” can’t be used in this way with the modal because no punctuation is needed between a preposition and its complement.
“would” to describe what the lock would do. Choice C is incorrect because the present participle “creating”
can’t be used in this way with the modal “would” to describe what the lock would do. Choice D is incorrect Question Difficulty: Easy
because the finite past tense verb “created” can’t be used in this way with the modal “would” to describe what
the lock would do.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 26c8c88c Question ID f4fd123c

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: 26c8c88c ID: f4fd123c

About 70,000 meteorites have been found on Earth. Although most meteorites are fragments of ______ hundred have The African Games Co-production Market, one of over 180 annual international conferences supporting video game
been identified as being from the Moon or Mars. development, ______ the growth of the African gaming industry by helping start-up studios in Africa find partners.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. asteroids. Several A. promote

B. asteroids, several B. are promoting

C. asteroids; several C. promotes

D. asteroids: several D. have promoted

ID: 26c8c88c Answer ID: f4fd123c Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. This choice uses a comma to correctly separate the dependent clause "although… Choice C is the best answer. The subject of the sentence is “The African Games Co-production Market.” That’s
asteroids" from the independent clause "several hundred have been…Mars." one market, so it’s a singular noun, which means it needs a singular verb. “Promotes” is the only singular verb
among the choices.
Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a sentence fragment. "Although…asteroids" is a dependent clause.
It can’t stand on its own as a sentence, which means it can’t end in a period. Choice C is incorrect. This choice Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a subject-verb agreement error. The subject “The African Games Co-
results in a punctuation error. "Although…asteroids" is a dependent clause and can’t be joined to the production Market” is singular, but the verb “promote” is plural. Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a
independent clause "several hundred have been…Mars" with a semicolon. A semicolon can only join two subject-verb agreement error. The subject “The African Games Co-production Market” is singular, but the verb
independent clauses. Choice D is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. A colon can only come “are promoting” is plural. Choice D is incorrect. This choice creates a subject-verb agreement error. The subject
after an independent clause, but "although…asteroids" is a dependent clause. “The African Games Co-production Market” is singular, but the verb “have promoted” is plural.

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 60713427 Question ID 2ee50d41
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: 60713427 ID: 2ee50d41

Polyphenols are organic compounds ______ among their many roles, provide pigment that helps protect plants against The classic children’s board game Chutes and Ladders is a version of an ancient Nepalese game, Paramapada
ultraviolet radiation from sunlight. Sopanapata. In both games, players encounter “good” or “bad” spaces while traveling along a path; landing on one of
the good spaces ______ a player to skip ahead and arrive closer to the end goal.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. that—
A. allows
B. that;
B. are allowing
C. that,
C. have allowed
D. that:
D. allow

ID: 60713427 Answer

Correct Answer: C
ID: 2ee50d41 Answer
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary element
within a sentence. The comma after “that” pairs with the comma after “roles” to separate the supplementary Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject–verb agreement. The singular verb
element “among their many roles” from the rest of the sentence. This supplementary element functions to “allows” agrees in number with the singular subject “landing.”
clarify that polyphenols have many roles, and the pair of commas indicates that this element could be
removed without affecting the grammatical coherence of the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb “are allowing” doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject
“landing.” Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb “have allowed” doesn’t agree in number with the
Choice A is incorrect because a dash can’t be paired with a comma to separate the supplementary element singular subject “landing.” Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb “allow” doesn’t agree in number with
from the rest of the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be paired with a comma to the singular subject “landing.”
separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Choice D is incorrect because a colon can’t
be paired with a comma to separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Question Difficulty: Easy

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 15d6d837 Question ID 856b495d

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 15d6d837 ID: 856b495d

Literary agents estimate that more than half of all nonfiction books credited to a celebrity or other public figure are in In the early twentieth century, Joseph Kekuku and other Hawaiian ______ in the mainland United States to the bright
fact written by ghostwriters, professional authors who are paid to write other ______ but whose names never appear on and lilting sound of the kīkā kila, or Hawaiian steel guitar. The instrument soon became a fixture in American blues and
book covers. country music.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. people’s stories A. musicians introduced audiences

B. peoples story’s B. musicians’ introduced audiences’

C. peoples stories C. musician’s introduced audience’s

D. people’s story’s D. musicians’ introduced audiences

ID: 15d6d837 Answer ID: 856b495d Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of plural and possessive nouns. The plural Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of plural nouns. The plural nouns
possessive noun “people’s” and the plural noun “stories” correctly indicate that there are multiple stories from "musicians" and "audiences" correctly indicate that there were multiple musicians introducing the music to
multiple people. multiple audiences.

Choice B is incorrect because the context requires the plural possessive noun “people’s” and the plural noun Choice B is incorrect because the context requires the plural nouns "musicians" and "audiences," not the plural
“stories,” not the plural noun “peoples” and the singular possessive noun “story’s.” Choice C is incorrect because possessive nouns "musicians’" and "audiences’." Choice C is incorrect because the context requires the plural
the context requires the plural possessive noun “people’s,” not the plural noun “peoples.” Choice D is incorrect nouns "musicians" and "audiences," not the singular possessive nouns "musician’s" and "audience’s." Choice D
because the context requires the plural noun “stories,” not the singular possessive noun “story’s.” is incorrect because the context requires the plural noun "musicians," not the plural possessive noun
"musicians’."
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question ID 97b62fab Question ID 89ab0d46
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 97b62fab ID: 89ab0d46

Smaller than poppy seeds, tardigrades are tiny, but they are tough. These minuscule animals can survive for thirty years After the printing press was introduced in 1440, handwritten manuscripts from Europe’s medieval period were often
without food or water, and ______ can withstand extreme temperatures as low as minus 328 degrees and as high as 304 destroyed and the paper used for other purposes. In one instance, pages ______ a collection of Norse tales dating to
degrees Fahrenheit. 1270 were discovered lining a bishop’s miter (hat).

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. that A. from:

B. it B. from,

C. they C. from

D. he D. from—

ID: 97b62fab Answer ID: 89ab0d46 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is pronoun-antecedent agreement. The plural Choice C is the best answer. The word “from” introduces a prepositional phrase that modifies the noun “pages”
pronoun "they" agrees in number with the plural antecedent "animals," which refers to tardigrades. and provides essential information about their origin. No additional punctuation is needed after “from” in this
context.
Choice A is incorrect because the singular pronoun "that" doesn’t agree in number with the plural antecedent
"animals." Choice B is incorrect because the singular pronoun "it" doesn’t agree in number with the plural Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a punctuation error, illogically separating the preposition “from”
antecedent "animals." Choice D is incorrect because the singular pronoun "he" doesn’t agree in number with from the rest of the prepositional phrase with a colon. Also, a colon can only follow an independent clause, but
the plural antecedent "animals." what comes before the blank could not stand on its own as a complete sentence. Choice B is incorrect. This
choice results in a punctuation error, illogically separating the preposition “from” from the rest of the
Question Difficulty: Easy prepositional phrase with a comma. Choice D is incorrect. This choice results in a punctuation error, illogically
separating the preposition “from” from the rest of the prepositional phrase with a dash.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID ce81d0b7 Question ID 35360da9

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: ce81d0b7 ID: 35360da9

The life spans of rockfish vary greatly by species. For instance, the colorful calico rockfish (Sebastes dalli) can survive for The US Geological Survey wants to map every human-made structure in the United States, and it is asking volunteers
a little over a ______ the rougheye rockfish (Sebastes aleutianus) boasts a maximum life span of about two centuries. to help. Cassie Tammy Wang and Ashish D’Souza are just two of the many volunteer map editors who ______ to the
project since it began in 2012.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. decade: while
A. contribute
B. decade. While
B. will contribute
C. decade; while
C. have contributed
D. decade, while
D. will be contributing

ID: ce81d0b7 Answer

Correct Answer: D ID: 35360da9 Answer
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a main clause and a
subordinate clause. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the main clause (“the Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense in a sentence. In
colorful…decade”) and the subordinate clause (“while…centuries”) that provides contrasting information about this choice, the present perfect tense verb “have contributed,” used in conjunction with the phrase “since it
the life span of rougheye rockfish. began in 2012,” correctly indicates that map editors have contributed in the past and continue to do so in the
present.
Choice A is incorrect because a colon can’t be used in this way to join a main clause and a subordinate
clause. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a rhetorically unacceptable sentence fragment beginning Choice A is incorrect because the present tense verb “contribute” is inconsistent with the phrase “since it
with “while.” Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to join a main clause and a began in 2012,” which suggests that the contributions occurred in the past and continue into the present.
subordinate clause. Choice B is incorrect because the future tense verb “will contribute” is inconsistent with the phrase “since it
began in 2012,” which suggests that the contributions occurred in the past and continue into the present.
Question Difficulty: Easy Choice D is incorrect because the future tense verb “will be contributing” is inconsistent with the phrase
“since it began in 2012,” which suggests that the contributions occurred in the past and continue into the
present.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 04bfd364 Question ID ea8f4658
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 04bfd364 ID: ea8f4658

The intense pressure found in the deep ocean can affect the structure of proteins in fish’s cells, distorting the proteins’ When particles are suspended in liquid (like pollen in a water glass), they will zigzag randomly through the liquid and
shape. The chemical trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) counters this effect, ensuring that proteins retain their original collide with one another in perpetuity. This type of random, continuous ______ is known as Brownian motion, can be
______ is found in high concentrations in the cells of the deepest-dwelling fish. observed throughout the natural world.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. configurations. TMAO A. movement: which

B. configurations TMAO B. movement, which

C. configurations, TMAO C. movement which

D. configurations and TMAO D. movement. Which

ID: 04bfd364 Answer ID: ea8f4658 Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation use between sentences. In this Choice B is the best answer. This choice correctly uses commas to set off the nonessential relative clause
choice, the period after “configurations” is used correctly to mark the boundary between one sentence (“The "which is known as Brownian motion" that provides extra information about the "random, continuous
intense…configurations”) and another (“TMAO…fish”). The supplementary phrase (“ensuring…configurations”) movement" that isn’t necessary for the function of the sentence.
modifies the main clause of the first sentence (“The chemical…effect”), and “TMAO” is the subject of the second
sentence. Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a punctuation error. The relative clause "which is known as
Brownian motion" is a nonessential supplement. Nonessential supplements need to be set apart from the rest
Choice B is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The sentences (“The intense…configurations” of the sentence with a pair of commas, dashes, or parentheses, so we can’t use a colon here. Also, notice that
and “TMAO…fish”) are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice C is incorrect because it results colons can only come after an independent clause, which isn’t the case here. Choice C is incorrect. This choice
in a comma splice. A comma can’t be used in this way to mark the boundary between sentences. Choice D is results in a punctuation error. The relative clause "which is known as Brownian motion" is a nonessential
incorrect. Without a comma preceding it, the conjunction “and” can’t be used in this way to join sentences. supplement, so it should be separated from the rest of the sentence by a pair of matching punctuation marks.
We already have a comma after "motion," so we need to add a comma before "which." This choice is missing
Question Difficulty: Easy that comma. Choice D is incorrect. This choice results in a sentence fragment. "This type of random,
continuous movement" is not an independent clause and can’t stand alone as a full sentence, so we can’t put a
period here.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 775f3eb9 Question ID b5b74c3f

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 775f3eb9 ID: b5b74c3f

In his groundbreaking book Bengali Harlem and the Lost Histories of South Asian America, Vivek Bald uses newspaper When writing The Other Black Girl (2021), novelist Zakiya Dalila Harris drew on her own experiences working at a
articles, census records, ships’ logs, and memoirs to tell the ______ who made New York City their home in the early publishing office. The award-winning book is Harris’s first novel, but her writing ______ honored before. At the age of
twentieth century. twelve, she entered a contest to have a story published in American Girl magazine—and won.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. story’s of the South Asian immigrants A. were

B. story’s of the South Asian immigrants’ B. have been

C. stories of the South Asian immigrants C. has been

D. stories’ of the South Asian immigrant’s D. are

ID: 775f3eb9 Answer ID: b5b74c3f Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of plural and possessive nouns. The plural Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb “has
nouns “stories” and “immigrants” correctly indicate that the memoir tells multiple stories of multiple been” agrees in number with the singular subject “writing.”
immigrants.
Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb “were” doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject
Choice A is incorrect because the context requires the plural noun “stories,” not the singular possessive noun “writing.” Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb “have been” doesn’t agree in number with the singular
“story’s.” Choice B is incorrect because the context requires the plural nouns “stories” and “immigrants,” not the subject “writing.” Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb “are” doesn’t agree in number with the singular
singular possessive noun “story’s” and the plural possessive noun “immigrants’.” Choice D is incorrect because subject “writing.”
the context requires the plural nouns “stories” and “immigrants,” not the plural possessive noun “stories’” and
the singular possessive noun “immigrant’s.” Question Difficulty: Easy

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID c21df211 Question ID 50445680
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: c21df211 ID: 50445680

In 1959, the film industry debuted Smell-O-Vision. Theaters were fitted with specialized vents that emitted odors at In winter, the diets of Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, are influenced more by food availability than
specific points in a ______ as the scent of roses when roses appeared in a scene. Smell-O-Vision failed to impress, by food preference. Although the monkeys prefer to eat vegetation and land-dwelling invertebrates, those food
however, with one reviewer declaring it “briefly weird and not very interesting.” sources may become unavailable because of extensive snow and ice cover, ______ the monkeys to hunt for marine
animals in any streams that have not frozen over.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. movie such
A. forces
B. movie; such
B. to force
C. movie. Such
C. forcing
D. movie, such
D. forced

ID: c21df211 Answer

Correct Answer: D ID: 50445680 Answer
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The comma appropriately separates the nonessential descriptive aside "such as…
scene" from the independent clause "Theaters were…movie." Since the descriptive example of roses isn’t Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of finite and nonfinite verb forms within a
necessary for the sentence to function, it needs to be set off with punctuation. sentence. The nonfinite present participle “forcing” is correctly used to form a participial phrase that
supplements the main clause “those...cover,” describing the effects on monkeys of the lack of food sources.
Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on sentence. Since the example of roses isn’t necessary for
the sentence to function, the descriptive aside "such as…scene" needs to be separated from the preceding Choice A is incorrect because the finite present tense verb “forces” can’t be used in this way to supplement the
independent clause with some sort of punctuation. Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation main clause (“those...cover”). Choice B is incorrect. While the nonfinite to-infinitive “to force” could be used to
error. A semicolon can only be used to separate two independent clauses, but "such…scene" is not an form a subordinate clause that supplements the main clause (“those...cover”), to-infinitives conventionally
independent clause and couldn’t stand on its own as a sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This choice results in a express purpose, and nothing in the sentence suggests that the food sources become unavailable for the
sentence fragment. The descriptive aside "Such…scene" is not an independent clause and can’t stand on its purpose of forcing monkeys to hunt marine animals. Choice D is incorrect because the finite past tense verb
own as a sentence. “forced” can’t be used in this way to supplement the main clause (“those...cover”).

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 577b09fa Question ID 0ff8477b

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: 577b09fa ID: 0ff8477b

Robin Wall Kimmerer of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation is a bryologist, a plant scientist who specializes in mosses. To Food and the sensation of taste are central to Monique Truong’s novels. In The Book of Salt, for example, the exiled
Kimmerer, mosses are Earth’s most adaptable plants: they can clone ______ enter a dormant state in times of drought, character of Bình connects to his native Saigon through the food he prepares, while in Bitter in the Mouth, the character
and grow in areas that don’t have soil. of Linda ______ a form of synesthesia whereby the words she hears evoke tastes.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. themselves; A. experienced

B. themselves, B. had experienced

C. themselves. And C. experiences

D. themselves D. will be experiencing

ID: 577b09fa Answer ID: 0ff8477b Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: C

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of items in a series. The comma Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense. In this choice,
after “themselves” is used conventionally to separate the first item (“they can clone themselves”) and the the present tense verb “experiences” is consistent with the other present tense verbs (e.g., “connects” and
second item (“enter a dormant state in times of drought”) in the series of things mosses can do. “prepares”) used to describe the events in Truong’s novels. Furthermore, it’s conventional to use the present
tense when discussing a literary work.
Choice A is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to separate items in a simple series such
as this. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a rhetorically unacceptable sentence fragment beginning Choice A is incorrect because the past tense verb “experienced” isn’t consistent with the other present tense
with “And enter.” Choice D is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to separate the first and verbs used to describe the events in Truong’s novels. Choice B is incorrect because the past perfect tense verb
second items in the series. “had experienced” isn’t consistent with the other present tense verbs used to describe the events in Truong’s
novels. Choice D is incorrect because the future progressive tense verb “will be experiencing” isn’t consistent
Question Difficulty: Easy with the other present tense verbs used to describe the events in Truong’s novels.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID b260c65a Question ID a466679a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: b260c65a ID: a466679a

Earth is not a perfect sphere. Due to the ______ gravitational pull, Earth bulges out on the sides closest to and farthest In 1976, the Inuit rock group Sikumiut recorded the album People of the Ice. Though only their first record, it shows a
from the Moon. This distorting pull is known as a tidal force, and it is responsible for the changes in water levels that band already skilled at the difficult task of making music that sounds easy and fun. On songs like “Utirumavunga,”
are called high and low tides. Lucassie Koperqualuk’s guitar riffs effortlessly ______ Charlie Adams’s delightfully catchy vocal melodies.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Moon’s A. blend, with

B. Moons B. blend. With

C. Moons’ C. blend; with

D. Moon D. blend with

ID: b260c65a Answer ID: a466679a Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of possessive nouns. The singular Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a verb and a prepositional
possessive noun "Moon’s" correctly indicates that there is only one Moon, and it has a gravitational pull. phrase. No punctuation is needed between the verb “blend” and the prepositional phrase “with Charlie
Adams’s delightfully catchy vocal melodies.” The prepositional phrase completes the idea of the sentence,
Choice B is incorrect because the context requires the singular possessive noun "Moon’s," not the plural noun explaining with what Koperqualuk’s guitar riffs blend.
"Moons." Choice C is incorrect because the context requires the singular possessive noun "Moon’s," not the
plural possessive noun "Moons’." Choice D is incorrect because the context requires the singular possessive Choice A is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the verb and the prepositional phrase.
noun "Moon’s," not the singular noun "Moon." Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the verb and the prepositional
phrase. Choice C is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the verb and the prepositional
Question Difficulty: Easy phrase.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 898f182c Question ID 6e5bf3a8

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 898f182c ID: 6e5bf3a8

Richard Spikes was a prolific African American inventor known for his contributions to automotive engineering. Even though bats prefer very sweet nectar, the plants that attract them have evolved to produce nectar that is only
Between 1907 and 1946, he patented many inventions, ______ an automobile turn signal, a safety brake, and—most moderately sweet. A recent study ______ why: making sugar is energy-intensive, and it is more advantageous for plants
famously—the first automatic gearshift. to make a large amount of low-sugar nectar than a small amount of high-sugar nectar.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. included A. explains

B. includes B. explaining

C. including C. having explained

D. will include D. to explain

ID: 898f182c Answer ID: 6e5bf3a8 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of nonfinite verb forms within a sentence. Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of finite and nonfinite verb forms within a
The nonfinite present participle "including" is correctly used to form a participial phrase that supplements the sentence. A main clause requires a finite verb to perform the action of the subject (in this case, “a recent
main clause "he patented many inventions," listing several of Spikes’s patented inventions. study”), and this choice supplies the finite present tense verb “explains” to indicate that the study explains
why plants that attract bats have evolved to produce moderately sweet nectar.
Choice A is incorrect because the finite past tense verb "included" can’t be used in this way to supplement the
main clause "he patented many inventions." Choice B is incorrect because the finite present tense verb Choice B is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “explaining” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite
"includes" can’t be used in this way to supplement the main clause "he patented many inventions." Choice D is verb. Choice C is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “having explained” doesn’t supply the main clause
incorrect because the finite future tense verb "will include" can’t be used in this way to supplement the main with a finite verb. Choice D is incorrect because the nonfinite to-infinitive “to explain” doesn’t supply the main
clause "he patented many inventions." clause with a finite verb.

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 7c48a6dd Question ID cabe71d4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 7c48a6dd ID: cabe71d4

In the late 1960s, inspired in part by the sight of laundry hanging on a clothesline, African American abstract painter Both Sona Charaipotra, an Indian American, and Dhonielle Clayton, an African American, grew up frustrated by the lack
Sam Gilliam began to create his iconic “Drape” paintings. He applied bold, saturated hues to large canvases and ______ of diverse characters in books for young people. In 2011, these two writers joined forces to found CAKE Literary, a
them from ceilings or walls, causing the drooping fabric to cascade in dramatic loops and curves. book packaging ______ specializes in the creation and promotion of stories told from diverse perspectives for children
and young adults.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. to have suspended
A. company,
B. suspending
B. company that
C. to suspend
C. company
D. suspended
D. company, that

ID: 7c48a6dd Answer

Correct Answer: D ID: cabe71d4 Answer
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The past tense of "suspended" matches the past tense of "applied," which has the
same subject ("he") and takes place in the same context: "He applied…and [he] suspended." Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use and punctuation of an integrated relative
clause. This choice correctly uses the relative pronoun “that” and no punctuation to create an integrated
Choice A is incorrect. The perfect infinitive "to have suspended" doesn’t match the past tense of "applied," and relative clause that provides essential information about the noun phrase (“a book packaging company”) that
it can’t serve as a verb on its own. These are both verbs with the same subject and in the same context, so it modifies.
there’s no need to shift tenses. Choice B is incorrect. The present participle "suspending" doesn’t match the
past tense of "applied," and it can’t serve as a verb on its own. These are both verbs with the same subject and Choice A is incorrect because it doesn’t use a relative pronoun to link the verb phrase beginning with
in the same context, so there’s no need to shift tenses. Choice C is incorrect. The infinitive "to suspend" doesn’t “specializes” to the noun phrase that it modifies (“a book packaging company”). Choice C is incorrect because
match the past tense of "applied," and it can’t serve as a verb on its own. These are both verbs with the same it doesn’t use a relative pronoun to link the verb phrase beginning with “specializes” to the noun phrase that it
subject and in the same context, so there’s no need to shift tenses. modifies (“a book packaging company”). Choice D is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the
integrated relative clause beginning with “that specializes” and the noun phrase that it modifies (“a book
Question Difficulty: Easy packaging company”).

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 7b950fc2 Question ID fff4c7f4

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: 7b950fc2 ID: fff4c7f4

In 2000, Nora de Hoyos Comstock, herself an owner of a successful consulting firm, sought to increase Latina American poet Emily Dickinson wrote many of her poems on scraps of paper, but she also took steps to collect these
representation in corporate ______ founded Las Comadres para las Americas, an international community that for over works. From 1858 to around 1864, for example, she copied more than 800 of ______ into forty homemade booklets
two decades has served as a resource and information network for Latina business professionals. (known as fascicles).

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. settings she A. them

B. settings, she B. this

C. settings and she C. that

D. settings. She D. it

ID: 7b950fc2 Answer ID: fff4c7f4 Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. It appropriately uses a period to mark the end of one independent clause ("In Choice A is the best answer. The pronoun "them" agrees with the plural antecedents "poems" and "works."
2000…settings") and the start of another ("She founded…professionals").
Choice B is incorrect. "This" is a singular pronoun, but its antecedents, "poems" and "works," are plural. Choice
Choice A is incorrect. This choice results in a run-on sentence error. Both the clause before the blank ("In C is incorrect. "That" is a singular pronoun, but its antecedents, "poems" and "works," are plural. Choice D is
2000…settings") and the clause after the blank ("she…professionals") are independent clauses, so they need to incorrect. "It" is a singular pronoun, but its antecedents, "poems" and "works," are plural.
be separated by punctuation. Choice B is incorrect. This choice results in a comma splice error. It incorrectly
joins two independent clauses with just a comma. Linking two independent clauses with a comma also Question Difficulty: Easy
requires the use of a coordinating conjunction (like for, and, nor, but, or, yet, or so). Choice C is incorrect. This
choice results in a run-on sentence, an error caused when two independent clauses are joined without
punctuation or appropriate conjunctions. Since both the clause before the blank ("In 2000…settings") and the
clause after the blank ("she…professionals") are independent, a comma would be required in addition to the
coordinating conjunction "and."

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID c5d39bc7 Question ID e2759b92
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: c5d39bc7 ID: e2759b92

Scientists believe that, unlike most other species of barnacle, turtle barnacles (Chelonibia testudinari) can dissolve the Occupying a significant part of modern-day Nigeria, the Kingdom of Benin was one of the major powers in West Africa
cement-like secretions they use to attach ______ to a sea turtle shell, enabling the barnacles to move short distances between the thirteenth and nineteenth centuries. It ______ ruled by Oba Ewuare I from 1440 to 1473.
across the shell’s surface.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. is
A. it
B. will be
B. themselves
C. has been
C. them
D. was
D. itself

ID: e2759b92 Answer

ID: c5d39bc7 Answer Correct Answer: D
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense in a sentence. In
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is pronoun-antecedent agreement. The plural this choice, the past tense verb “was ruled” correctly indicates that Oba Ewuare I ruled the Kingdom of Benin
reflexive pronoun “themselves” agrees in number with the plural antecedent “turtle barnacles,” correctly in the distant past (from 1440 to 1473). This past tense verb choice is consistent with the other past tense verb
indicating what is attached to a sea turtle shell. (“was”) used to describe the Kingdom of Benin.

Choice A is incorrect because the singular pronoun “it” doesn’t agree in number with the plural antecedent Choice A is incorrect because the present tense verb “is ruled” doesn’t indicate that Oba Ewuare I ruled the
“turtle barnacles.” Choice C is incorrect because it results in an unclear and confusing sentence. In this Kingdom of Benin in the distant past. Choice B is incorrect because the future tense verb “will be ruled”
context, it’s unclear what the plural pronoun “them” refers to. Choice D is incorrect because the singular doesn’t indicate that Oba Ewuare I ruled the Kingdom of Benin in the distant past. Choice C is incorrect
reflexive pronoun “itself” doesn’t agree in number with the plural antecedent “turtle barnacles.” because the present perfect tense verb “has been ruled” doesn’t indicate that Oba Ewuare I ruled the Kingdom
of Benin in the distant past.
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 175df826 Question ID e15c50b2

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 175df826 ID: e15c50b2

In the 2011 documentary The Barber of Birmingham, civil rights activist James Armstrong recounts how his barbershop A standard Argo float, a type of autonomous robot, measures temperature and salinity in the upper regions of ice-free
in Birmingham, Alabama, ______ as a political hub for members of the Black community during the 1950s. oceans. More advanced floats can measure a wider range of ______ and monitor seasonal ice zones.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. serving A. variables: travel to greater depths

B. having served B. variables, travel to greater depths,

C. served C. variables travel to greater depths,

D. to serve D. variables, travel to greater depths;

ID: 175df826 Answer ID: e15c50b2 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verb forms within a sentence. Relative Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of items in a series. The comma
clauses, such as the one beginning with "how," require a finite (tensed) verb, a verb that can function as the after “variables” is used conventionally to separate the first and second items in the series, and the comma
main verb of a clause. This choice correctly supplies the clause with the finite past tense verb "served." after “depths” is used conventionally to separate the second and third items.

Choice A is incorrect because it results in an ungrammatical sentence. The nonfinite participle "serving" Choice A is incorrect because a colon can’t be used in this way to separate items in a simple series. Choice C is
doesn’t supply the clause with a finite verb. Choice B is incorrect because it results in an ungrammatical incorrect because a comma is needed after “variables” to separate the first and second items in the series.
sentence. The nonfinite participle "having served" doesn’t supply the clause with a finite verb. Choice D is Choice D is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to separate items in a simple series.
incorrect because it results in an ungrammatical sentence. The nonfinite to-infinitive "to serve" doesn’t supply
the clause with a finite verb. Question Difficulty: Easy

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 988c78eb Question ID 96499989
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 988c78eb ID: 96499989

Former First Lady of the United States Eleanor Roosevelt and Indian activist and educator Hansa Mehta were Fans of science fiction will ______ multiple references to classic sci-fi stories in Janelle Monáe’s song lyrics, including her
instrumental in drafting the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a document that ______ the basic recurring nods to the plot of the 1927 sci-fi film Metropolis.
freedoms to which all people are entitled.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. appreciate the
A. have outlined
B. appreciate. The
B. were outlining
C. appreciate, the
C. outlines
D. appreciate: the
D. outline

ID: 96499989 Answer

ID: 988c78eb Answer Correct Answer: A
Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested here is punctuation between a verb and object. No
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb punctuation is needed between the verb ("appreciate") and its object ("the multiple references..."). The object
“outlines” agrees in number with the singular subject “document.” helps complete the idea of the verb—in this case, it explains what fans of science fiction will appreciate—and
any punctuation between the two results in an ungrammatical sentence.
Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb “have outlined” doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject
“document.” Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb “were outlining” doesn’t agree in number with the Choice B is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between the verb and its object. Choice C is incorrect
singular subject “document.” Choice D is incorrect because the plural verb “outline” doesn’t agree in number because no punctuation is needed between the verb and its object. Choice D is incorrect because no
with the singular subject “document.” punctuation is needed between the verb and its object.

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 4565a53c Question ID 91fbd59d

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions Conventions

ID: 4565a53c ID: 91fbd59d

Lucía Michel of the University of Chile observed that alkaline soils contain an insoluble form of iron that blueberry Award-winning cinematographer James Wong Howe was known for his innovative filming techniques. While filming a
plants cannot absorb, thus inhibiting blueberry growth. If these plants were grown in alkaline soil alongside grasses boxing match for the movie Body and Soul ______ Howe had a handheld camera operator wear roller skates. This
that aid in iron solubilization, ______ Michel was determined to find out. allowed the operator to move smoothly around actors in a boxing ring, creating an immersive experience for viewers.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. could the blueberries thrive. A. (1947), and

B. the blueberries could thrive. B. (1947),

C. the blueberries could thrive? C. (1947) and

D. could the blueberries thrive? D. (1947)

ID: 4565a53c Answer ID: 91fbd59d Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is end-of-sentence punctuation. This choice Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a supplementary element
correctly uses a question mark to punctuate the interrogative clause “could the blueberries thrive,” which asks and a main clause. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the supplementary
a direct question at the end of the sentence. phrase (“While...1947”), which indicates when the action occurred, and the main clause (“Howe had a handheld
camera operator wear roller skates”).
Choice A is incorrect because a period can’t be used in this way to punctuate an interrogative clause, such as
“could the blueberries thrive,” at the end of a sentence. Choice B is incorrect because the context requires an Choice A is incorrect because a comma paired with the conjunction “and” can’t be used in this way to mark the
interrogative clause. The declarative clause “the blueberries could thrive” incorrectly indicates that it was boundary between the supplementary element (“While…1947”) and the main clause (“Howe…skates”). Choice C
known that the blueberries could thrive in alkaline soil, whereas Michel had yet to find this out. Choice C is is incorrect because the conjunction “and” can’t be used in this way to join the supplementary element
incorrect because a question mark can’t be used in this way to punctuate a declarative clause, such as “the (“While…1947”) and the main clause (“Howe…skates”). Choice D is incorrect because it fails to mark the
blueberries could thrive,” at the end of a sentence. boundary between the supplementary element and the main clause with appropriate punctuation.

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID b1e8b87f Question ID 31362d2d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: b1e8b87f ID: 31362d2d

Winding through the ice atop Norway’s Jotunheim Mountains is the Lendbreen pass, an ancient route that was used by If simple sugars such as ribose and glycolaldehyde ______ Earth from elsewhere and survived impact—a possibility
hunters, farmers, traders, and travelers in the Middle Ages before eventually falling into disuse. Recently, archeologists astrophysicist Nicolle Zellner outlined in a 2020 study—the sugars could have reacted with other molecules that were
have ______ knives, horseshoes, wool tunics, and thousands of other artifacts from the icy pass. already present on the planet to form the nucleotides that are the structural components of RNA and DNA.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. unearthed: A. reach

B. unearthed, B. had reached

C. unearthed— C. will reach

D. unearthed D. are reaching

ID: b1e8b87f Answer ID: 31362d2d Answer

Correct Answer: D Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice D is the best answer. No punctuation should separate the verb "unearthed" and its objects (i.e, what was Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense. In this choice,
"unearthed"): "knives, horseshoes, wool tunics, and thousands of other artifacts." the past perfect verb “had reached” is used correctly to describe a past action that was completed before
another action in the past. Specifically, in this hypothetical scenario about the origins of RNA and DNA on
Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error, separating the verb "unearthed" from its objects Earth, the simple sugars had to have reached Earth before they could react with other molecules on the planet.
(i.e, what was "unearthed") with a colon. Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error,
separating the verb "unearthed" from its objects (i.e, what was "unearthed") with a comma. Choice C is Choice A is incorrect because the present tense verb “reach” doesn’t indicate that the simple sugars reached
incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error, separating the verb "unearthed" from its objects (i.e, what Earth before reacting with other molecules on the planet. Choice C is incorrect because the future tense verb
was "unearthed") with a dash. “will reach” doesn’t indicate that the simple sugars reached Earth before reacting with other molecules on the
planet. Choice D is incorrect because the present progressive verb “are reaching” doesn’t indicate that the
Question Difficulty: Easy simple sugars reached Earth before reacting with other molecules on the planet.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 1d971f75 Question ID f40ca576

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 1d971f75 ID: f40ca576

Photographer Ansel Adams’s landscape portraits are iconic pieces of American art. However, many of the ______ of Each year in the fall, when the weather starts to cool in the northern hemisphere, millions of North American monarch
landscapes were intended not as art but as marketing; a concessions company at Yosemite National Park had hired butterflies journey south. Searching for food and warmer habitats, they ______ thousands of miles—from as far north as
Adams to take pictures of the park for restaurant menus and brochures. Canada all the way down to Mexico—on this annual migration.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. photographer’s early photo’s A. flew

B. photographers early photo’s B. were flying

C. photographer’s early photos C. had flown

D. photographers early photos D. fly

ID: 1d971f75 Answer ID: f40ca576 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. There’s only one photographer (Adams), and the photos are his, so the singular Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense. In this choice,
possessive "photographer’s" is correct. There’s more than one photo, and nothing belongs to the photos, so the the present tense verb “fly” is consistent with the other present tense verb ( “journey”) used to describe the
simple plural "photos" is correct. butterflies’ yearly migration. Together, these simple present tense verbs correctly indicate that the migration
is a current, yearly occurrence.
Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses the singular possessive "photo’s," which isn’t correct. There’s more than
one photo, and they don’t possess anything, so the noun should be the simple plural "photos." Choice B is Choice A is incorrect. The simple past tense verb “flew” isn’t consistent with the other present tense verb used
incorrect. This choice uses the simple plural "photographers" and the singular possessive "photo’s," which to describe the butterflies’ yearly migration. Choice B is incorrect. The past progressive tense verb “were
aren’t correct. There’s only one photographer (Adams) and there’s more than one photo. Choice D is incorrect. flying” isn’t consistent with the other present tense verb used to describe the butterflies’ yearly migration.
This choice uses the simple plural "photographers," which isn’t correct. There’s only one photographer Choice C is incorrect. The past perfect tense verb “had flown” isn’t consistent with the other present tense verb
(Adams). used to describe the butterflies’ yearly migration.

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID dddfa043 Question ID 4c9a2aee
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: dddfa043 ID: 4c9a2aee

Before the Erie Canal was completed in 1825, transporting goods by wagon between New York City and the Midwest Wanda Diaz-Merced is an astrophysicist who lost her sight when she was young. Diaz-Merced’s condition inspired her
took up to forty-five days and cost one hundred dollars per ton. By linking the Hudson River to Lake ______ canal to develop software that can translate scientific data into sound. Sound-based tools ______ scientists to detect subtle
reduced transport time to nine days and cut costs to six dollars per ton. patterns in data. Such patterns may not be evident in traditional graphs.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Erie; the A. has enabled

B. Erie (the B. enable

C. Erie, the C. is enabling

D. Erie: the D. enables

ID: dddfa043 Answer ID: 4c9a2aee Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: B

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a supplementary phrase and Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The plural verb "enable"
a main clause. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the introductory agrees in number with the plural subject "sound-based tools."
supplementary phrase (“By linking the Hudson River to Lake Erie”), which identifies how the canal reduced
transport time, and the main clause (“the canal reduced transport time to nine days and cut costs to six dollars Choice A is incorrect because the singular verb "has enabled" doesn’t agree in number with the plural subject
per ton”). "sound-based tools." Choice C is incorrect because the singular verb "is enabling" doesn’t agree in number with
the plural subject "sound-based tools." Choice D is incorrect because the singular verb "enables" doesn’t agree
Choice A is incorrect because a semicolon can’t be used in this way to mark the boundary between a in number with the plural subject "sound-based tools."
supplementary phrase (“By…Erie”) and the main clause (“the canal...ton”). Choice B is incorrect because an
open parenthesis can’t be used in this way to mark the boundary between a supplementary phrase (“By…Erie”) Question Difficulty: Easy
and the main clause (“the canal...ton”). Choice D is incorrect because a colon can’t be used in this way to mark
the boundary between an introductory supplementary phrase (“By…Erie”) and the main clause (“the
canal...ton”).

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 603755a5 Question ID 42cc9236

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: 603755a5 ID: 42cc9236

In 1959, marine biologist Dr. Albert Jones founded the Underwater Adventure Seekers, a scuba diving ______ that is the If you try on one of artist Nick Cave’s signature Soundsuits, you can expect to swish, rustle, or clang every time you
oldest club for Black divers in the United States and that has helped thousands of diving enthusiasts become certified move. Cave makes his suits out of found objects, everything from ceramic birds to broken record players. He carefully
in the field. considers the sound an object makes before using ______ in a suit.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. club A. this

B. club, B. that

C. club— C. these

D. club, and D. it

ID: 603755a5 Answer ID: 42cc9236 Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. “That is…field” is an essential supplement, so we should not use punctuation to Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested here is pronoun-antecedent agreement. The singular
separate it from “scuba diving club.” . pronoun "it" agrees in number with the singular antecedent "object."

Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. “That is…field” is an essential supplement, so we Choice A is incorrect. The singular pronoun "this" is used to refer to a specific thing, but here there is no
should not use a comma (or any kind of punctuation) to separate it from “scuba diving club.” . Choice C is specific object being referred to. Instead, the sentence is referring back to a hypothetical object that Cave
incorrect. This choice creates a punctuation error. “That is…field” is an essential supplement, so we should not might use in a Soundsuit. Choice B is incorrect. The singular pronoun "that" is used to refer to a specific thing,
use a dash (or any kind of punctuation) to separate it from “scuba diving club.” . Choice D is incorrect. This but here there is no specific object being referred to. Instead, the sentence is referring back to a hypothetical
choice creates a run-on sentence. It makes “that is…United States” into an awkward independent clause, but it object that Cave might use in a Soundsuit. Choice C is incorrect because the plural pronoun "these" doesn’t
also makes “that has…field” into its own awkward independent clause without the correct punctuation agree in number with the singular antecedent "object."
separating it.
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question ID 81ac953e Question ID 1f39ab8b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 81ac953e ID: 1f39ab8b

In 1899, Swedish chemist Svante Arrhenius developed an equation to answer a long-standing question: why do In the novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, Okonkwo is a leader of Umuofia (a fictional Nigerian clan) and takes
chemical reactions speed up at higher temperatures? The Arrhenius equation, named for its creator, ______ an pride in his culture’s traditions. However, when the arrival of European missionaries brings changes to Umuofia, the
important concept in modern chemistry. novel asks a central question: How ______

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. have remained A. Umuofia’s traditions will be affected.

B. remain B. will Umuofia’s traditions be affected.

C. remains C. Umuofia’s traditions will be affected?

D. are remaining D. will Umuofia’s traditions be affected?

ID: 81ac953e Answer ID: 1f39ab8b Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. This choice uses the singular verb "remains" to match the singular subject Choice D is the best answer. The clause before the colon tells us that the novel “asks a question,” so the clause
"equation." after the colon should be in the conventional form of a question: with the verb before the subject, and a
question mark at the end.
Choice A is incorrect. The singular noun "equation" doesn’t match with the plural verb conjugation "have
remained." Choice B is incorrect. The singular noun "equation" doesn’t match with the plural verb conjugation Choice A is incorrect. This choice ends the sentence with a period, which isn’t right. The clause before the
"remain." Choice D is incorrect. The singular noun "equation" doesn’t match with the plural verb conjugation colon tells us that the novel “asks a question,” so the clause after the colon should be that question. Choice B is
"are remaining." incorrect. This choice ends the sentence with a period, which isn’t right. The clause before the colon tells us
that the novel “asks a question,” so the clause after the colon should be that question. In Standard English,
Question Difficulty: Easy questions place the verb before the subject and end with a question mark. Choice C is incorrect. This choice
doesn’t conform to the conventions of Standard English. In Standard English, questions place the verb before
the subject.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 56770dda Question ID 576b2c70

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 56770dda ID: 576b2c70

In his 1963 exhibition Exposition of Music—Electronic Television, Korean American artist Nam June Paik showed how A member of the Cherokee Nation, Mary Golda Ross is renowned for her contributions to NASA’s Planetary Flight
television images could be manipulated to express an artist’s perspective. Today, Paik ______ considered the first video Handbook, which ______ detailed mathematical guidance for missions to Mars and Venus.
artist.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. provided
A. will be
B. having provided
B. had been
C. to provide
C. was
D. providing
D. is

ID: 576b2c70 Answer

ID: 56770dda Answer Correct Answer: A
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of finite verbs in a relative clause. Relative
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense. In this choice, clauses, such as the one beginning with “which,” require a finite verb, a verb that can function as the main verb
the present tense verb “is,” used in conjunction with the word “today,” correctly indicates that Paik is currently of a clause. This choice correctly supplies the clause with the finite past tense verb “provided.”
considered the first video artist.
Choice B is incorrect because the non-finite participle “having provided” doesn’t supply the clause with a finite
Choice A is incorrect because the future-indicating verb “will be” doesn’t indicate that Paik is currently verb. Choice C is incorrect because the non-finite to-infinitive “to provide” doesn’t supply the clause with a
considered the first video artist. Choice B is incorrect because the past perfect tense verb “had been” doesn’t finite verb. Choice D is incorrect because the non-finite participle “providing” doesn’t supply the clause with a
indicate that Paik is currently considered the first video artist. Choice C is incorrect because the past tense finite verb.
verb “was” doesn’t indicate that Paik is currently considered the first video artist.
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question ID f2eaaf5d Question ID ec08463d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: f2eaaf5d ID: ec08463d

At eight paragraphs long, the preamble to the constitution of ______ country in Western Asia—is much longer than the Botanists recognize over fifty different species of sunflower. One species, the silverleaf sunflower, ______ both an early-
one-paragraph preamble to the United States Constitution. flowering ecotype that tends to grow in coastal areas and a late-flowering ecotype that grows inland.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. Bahrain—a A. having included

B. Bahrain, a B. including

C. Bahrain a C. to include

D. Bahrain: a D. includes

ID: f2eaaf5d Answer ID: ec08463d Answer

Correct Answer: A Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the punctuation of a supplementary element Choice D is the best answer. This verb needs to function as the main verb in the sentence, with the subject
within a sentence. The dash after “Bahrain” pairs with the dash after “Asia” to separate the supplementary “one species,” so it needs to be conjugated. This choice gives us the singular present tense “includes,” which is
element “a country in Western Asia” from the rest of the sentence. the only conjugated form of the verb among the choices.

Choice B is incorrect because a comma can’t be paired with a dash in this way to separate the supplementary Choice A is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the conventions of Standard
element from the rest of the sentence. Choice C is incorrect because it fails to use appropriate punctuation to English. This verb needs to function as the main verb in the sentence, with the subject “one species,” so it
separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. Choice D is incorrect because a colon can’t needs to be conjugated. “Having included” is a participle form of the verb: it’s not conjugated and doesn’t
be paired with a dash in this way to separate the supplementary element from the rest of the sentence. function like a normal verb. Choice B is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a way that conforms to the
conventions of Standard English. This verb needs to function as the main verb in the sentence, with the
Question Difficulty: Easy subject “one species,” so it needs to be conjugated. “Including” is the gerund form of the verb: it’s not
conjugated and doesn’t function like a normal verb. Choice C is incorrect. This doesn’t complete the text in a
way that conforms to the conventions of Standard English. This verb needs to function as the main verb in the
sentence, with the subject “one species,” so it needs to be conjugated. “To include” is the infinitive form of the
verb: it’s not conjugated.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 4a90a978 Question ID 59e41600

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 4a90a978 ID: 59e41600

In 1990, California native and researcher Ellen Ochoa left her position as chief of the Intelligent Systems Technology Why are Rome’s famous concrete structures, such as the Colosseum, still standing after 2,000-plus years, when modern
Branch at a NASA research center ______ the space agency’s astronaut training program. concrete may not even last for fifty? Scientists ______ that the secret to Roman concrete’s durability was its unique
blend of ingredients, which included volcanic ash and seawater.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. to join
A. explain
B. is joining
B. having explained
C. joined
C. explaining
D. joins
D. to explain

ID: 4a90a978 Answer

Correct Answer: A ID: 59e41600 Answer
Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of nonfinite verb forms in a sentence. The
nonfinite to-infinitive verb "to join" is correctly used to form a subordinate clause that expresses why Ochoa Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verb forms within a sentence. The main
left her position (to join the training program). clause of a sentence requires a finite (tensed) verb, and this choice supplies the finite present tense verb
“explain” to indicate what the scientists do.
Choice B is incorrect because the finite verb "is joining" can’t be used in this way to indicate Ochoa’s action of
joining the training program. A conjunction such as "and" would be needed to coordinate "is joining" with the Choice B is incorrect because it results in an ungrammatical sentence. The nonfinite participle “having
previous finite verb, "left." Choice C is incorrect because the finite verb "joined" can’t be used in this way to explained” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite verb. Choice C is incorrect because it results in an
indicate Ochoa’s action of joining the training program. A conjunction such as "and" would be needed to ungrammatical sentence. The nonfinite participle “explaining” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite
coordinate "joined" with the previous finite verb, "left." Choice D is incorrect because the finite verb "joins" verb. Choice D is incorrect because it results in an ungrammatical sentence. The nonfinite to-infinitive “to
can’t be used in this way to indicate Ochoa’s action of joining the training program. A conjunction such as explain” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite verb.
"and" would be needed to coordinate "joins" with the previous finite verb, "left."
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question ID d75d57a0 Question ID 975eda7c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions Conventions and Sense

ID: d75d57a0 ID: 975eda7c

While many video game creators strive to make their graphics ever more ______ others look to the past, developing For thousands of years, people in the Americas ______ the bottle gourd, a large bitter fruit with a thick rind, to make
titles with visuals inspired by the “8-bit” games of the 1980s and 1990s. (The term “8-bit” refers to a console whose bottles, other types of containers, and even musical instruments. Oddly, there is no evidence that any type of bottle
processor could only handle eight bits of data at once.) gourd is native to the Western Hemisphere; either the fruit or its seeds must have somehow been carried from Asia or
Africa.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. lifelike but
A. to use
B. lifelike
B. have used
C. lifelike,
C. having used
D. lifelike, but
D. using

ID: d75d57a0 Answer

Correct Answer: C ID: 975eda7c Answer
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is punctuation between a subordinate clause and a
main clause. This choice correctly uses a comma to mark the boundary between the subordinate clause Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is finite and nonfinite verb forms within a sentence.
(“While…lifelike”) and the main clause (“others look to the past”). A main clause requires a finite verb to perform the action of the subject (in this case, “people in the Americas”),
and this choice supplies the finite past perfect tense verb “have used” to indicate what people in the Americas
Choice A is incorrect because it results in an incomplete sentence with no main clause. Choice B is incorrect used the gourd for.
because it fails to mark the boundary between the subordinate clause (“While…lifelike”) and the main clause
(“others…past”). Choice D is incorrect because it results in an incomplete sentence with no main clause. Choice A is incorrect because the nonfinite to-infinitive “to use” doesn’t supply the main clause with a finite
verb. Choice C is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “having used” doesn’t supply the main clause with
Question Difficulty: Easy a finite verb. Choice D is incorrect because the nonfinite participle “using” doesn’t supply the main clause with
a finite verb.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 588887b9 Question ID 9902d2de

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Boundaries
Conventions and Sense Conventions

ID: 588887b9 ID: 9902d2de

In 1881, French chemist Camille Faure redesigned the rechargeable lead-acid battery. Faure’s design greatly increased The Alvarez theory, developed in 1980 by physicist Luis Walter Alvarez and his geologist son Walter Alvarez,
the amount of electricity that the original battery, which the French physicist Gaston Planté ______ fifteen years earlier, maintained that the secondary effects of an asteroid impact caused many dinosaurs and other animals to die ______ it
could hold. left unexplored the question of whether unrelated volcanic activity might have also contributed to the mass
extinctions.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. is inventing
A. out but
B. will invent
B. out, but
C. invents
C. out
D. had invented
D. out,

ID: 588887b9 Answer

Correct Answer: D
ID: 9902d2de Answer
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. Faure redesigned the battery in 1881, and the original battery was invented “fifteen
years earlier.” Notice that this is the only choice in the past tense. To indicate that a past occurrence took place Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a
before another past occurrence, we need to use “had” + the past tense form of the verb. This is called the “past sentence. This choice correctly uses a comma and the coordinating conjunction “but” to join the first main
perfect” tense. clause (“the Alvarez…out”) and the second main clause (“it left…extinctions”).

Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a tense error. Planté invented the original battery in the past, so we Choice A is incorrect because when coordinating two longer main clauses such as these, it’s conventional to
shouldn’t use the present tense “is inventing.” Choice B is incorrect. This choice creates a tense error. Planté use a comma before the coordinating conjunction. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a run-on
invented the original battery in the past, so we shouldn’t use the future tense “will invent.” Choice C is sentence. The two main clauses are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. Choice D is incorrect
incorrect. This choice creates a tense error. Planté invented the original battery in the past, so we shouldn’t because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to
use the present tense “invents.” join two main clauses.

Question Difficulty: Easy Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID cd2443c0 Question ID e44db0a0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: cd2443c0 ID: e44db0a0

A pioneer in the field of taphonomy (the study of how organic remains become fossils), ______ may be just as prevalent Because a cycle of lunar phases ______ 29.5 days to complete, it’s possible to observe two full moons in a single month,
in the fossil record as those of thick-shelled organisms. one at the beginning and one at the end.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. fossils of thin-shelled organisms, Anna Behrensmeyer demonstrated in a 2005 analysis, A. are taking

B. Anna Behrensmeyer demonstrated in a 2005 analysis that fossils of thin-shelled organisms B. have taken

C. it was demonstrated in a 2005 analysis by Anna Behrensmeyer that fossils of thin-shelled organisms C. take

D. a 2005 analysis—by Anna Behrensmeyer—demonstrated that fossils of thin-shelled organisms D. takes

ID: cd2443c0 Answer ID: e44db0a0 Answer

Correct Answer: B Correct Answer: D

Rationale Rationale

Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-modifier placement. This choice makes Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb "takes"
the noun phrase “Anna Behrensmeyer” the subject of the sentence and places it immediately after the agrees in number with the singular subject "a cycle of lunar phases."
modifying phrase “a pioneer…fossils.” In doing so, this choice clearly establishes that Anna Behrensmeyer—
and not another noun in the sentence—is a pioneer in the field of taphonomy. Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb "are taking" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject "a
cycle of lunar phases." Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb "have taken" doesn’t agree in number with
Choice A is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the noun phrase “fossils of the singular subject "a cycle of lunar phases." Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb "take" doesn’t agree
thin-shelled organisms” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that the “fossils” are a in number with the singular subject "a cycle of lunar phases."
pioneer in the field of taphonomy. Choice C is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The
placement of the pronoun “it” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that “it” is a pioneer Question Difficulty: Medium
in the field of taphonomy. Choice D is incorrect because it results in a dangling modifier. The placement of the
noun phrase “a 2005 analysis” immediately after the modifying phrase illogically suggests that “a 2005
analysis” is a pioneer in the field of taphonomy.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 96e5da01 Question ID 12bd5b75

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 96e5da01 ID: 12bd5b75

The alga species Chlorella vulgaris is very efficient at making oxygen. For this reason, scientists are currently exploring With its towering, six-spired exterior of granitelike quartz monzonite, the Salt Lake Temple is one of the most instantly
ways to use this species in space. C. vulgaris might be used, for example, to build future biological air exchange recognizable structures in the state of Utah. However, many people do not know that ______ built over the course of
systems that ______ oxygen for astronauts. forty years, with construction beginning in 1853 and ending in 1893.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English? Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. are producing A. it was

B. produced B. one was

C. produce C. they were

D. have produced D. both were

ID: 96e5da01 Answer ID: 12bd5b75 Answer

Correct Answer: C Correct Answer: A

Rationale Rationale

Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verbs to express tense. Simple present Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is pronoun-antecedent agreement. The singular
tense verbs can be used to describe actions that tend to occur, including in a hypothetical or future scenario. pronoun "it" agrees in number with the singular antecedent "the Salt Lake Temple."
In this case, the simple present tense verb “produce” indicates what the air exchange systems might be able to
do in the future (produce oxygen for astronauts). Choice B is incorrect because the singular pronoun "one" is ambiguous in this context; the resulting sentence
leaves unclear whether there is only one Salt Lake temple or multiple. Choice C is incorrect because the plural
Choice A is incorrect. The present progressive tense verb “are producing” suggests that the oxygen is currently pronoun "they" doesn’t agree in number with the singular antecedent "the Salt Lake Temple." Choice D is
being produced, not that it might be produced in the future. Choice B is incorrect because the past tense verb incorrect because the plural pronoun "both" doesn’t agree in number with the singular antecedent "the Salt
“produced” suggests that the oxygen was produced in the past, not that it might be produced in the future. Lake Temple."
Choice D is incorrect because the present perfect tense verb “have produced” suggests that the oxygen has
been produced from a point in the past up to the present, not that it might be produced in the future. Question Difficulty: Easy

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 67614549 Question ID bd11fe93
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure, SAT Reading and Writing Standard English Form, Structure,
Conventions and Sense Conventions and Sense

ID: 67614549 ID: bd11fe93

After winning the 1860 presidential election, Abraham Lincoln appointed Edward Bates, Salmon P. Chase, and William Dr. Rocío Paola Caballero-Gill is a paleoceanographer. This means that Dr. Caballero-Gill doesn’t just study oceans as
H. Seward to his cabinet. Lincoln’s decision was surprising, since each of these men had run against him, but historians they are today. She uses chemistry and fossil evidence ______ oceans as they were in the past.
have praised it, noting that Lincoln ______ his rivals’ diverse talents to strengthen his administration.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. has studied
A. has leveraged
B. to study
B. is leveraging
C. studied
C. will leverage
D. studies
D. leveraged

ID: bd11fe93 Answer

ID: 67614549 Answer Correct Answer: B
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of verb forms within a sentence. The
Choice D is the best answer. The subject of the verb is “Lincoln,” and the first sentence tells us that we’re nonfinite to-infinitive verb “to study” is correctly used to form a subordinate clause that indicates what Dr.
talking about something that Abraham Lincoln did in 1860. So the simple past tense “leveraged” fits the logic Caballero-Gill uses chemistry and fossil evidence for (to study oceans as they were in the past).
of the text.
Choice A is incorrect because it results in an ungrammatical sentence. The finite verb “has studied” can’t be
Choice A is incorrect. This choice creates a tense issue. “Has leveraged” is the present perfect tense, which is used in this way to form a subordinate clause that indicates what Dr. Caballero-Gill uses the evidence for.
used for an action that began in the past and continues into the present. Lincoln started leveraging his rivals’ Choice C is incorrect because it results in an ungrammatical sentence. The finite verb “studied” can’t be used
talents in 1860—it’s definitely not still happening today. So the present perfect tense isn’t appropriate. Choice B in this way to form a subordinate clause that indicates what Dr. Caballero-Gill uses the evidence for. Choice D
is incorrect. This choice creates a tense issue. “Is leveraging” is the present tense, but Lincoln leveraged his is incorrect because it results in an ungrammatical sentence. The finite verb “studies” can’t be used in this way
rivals’ talents in 1860, so the present tense isn’t appropriate. Choice C is incorrect. This choice creates a tense to form a subordinate clause that indicates what Dr. Caballero-Gill uses the evidence for.
issue. “Will leverage” is the future tense, but Lincoln leveraged his rivals’ talents in 1860, so the future tense
isn’t appropriate. Question Difficulty: Easy

Question Difficulty: Medium