Mastering ACT Punctuation: Tips and Strategies

We all have been there where we have missed our grammar classes guilt-free, but then comes days you wish you had paid a little more attention to those grammar rules and punctuation marks.Here, we are to help you to make up for your lost classes because we know how uncompromising ACTs can be when it comes to punctuation and grammar.

Here is an example of a flawed sentence :

(Note :Try to find the answer on your own after finishing the blog . The correct answer will be given in the end.)

Eugene is one of the most laid-back people i know he is tall and fit with blonde hair and he always wears a t-shirt and blue denims his jeans has cuts in them and his football shoes is scruffy to he usually sits at the back of the classroom and he often seem to be asleep however when the exam result are given out he always gets a “A” i don’t think hes as lazy as he appears to be

This has several punctuation and grammar issues, it is okay if you didn’t find them right away, after reading this blog you will understand how to fix them all.

1. Colons and Semicolons

Colons are used 

• To start a list (like we just did)
• To expand and elucidate on a subject 
• For time
• To split up headings from subheadings(check out our blog’s title )

Tips to keep in mind : 

(see what we did there again with the colon)

1. When the first word following a colon is a proper noun or begins a complete phrase, capitalize it.
2. A colon does not immediately follow a verb.
3. The phrases “including,” “such as,” and “like” are not used with a colon because they duplicate the meaning of the colon.

Semicolons are used 

• To separate items already on the list

They act both as a period and a colon, therefore giving it this symbol[ ; ]. So, it gives a certain pause to the sentence and also separates two independent clauses.

2. Commas

Commas are used 

• To separate two complete sentences 
• To add a dependent clause to the sentence
• Before directly addressing someone
• To divide dates, numbers,and cities
• To add extra information in between a complete sentence

Do not worry, commas are one of the most complicated ACT punctuation marks, but as we said, we have got you covered! Tychr provides classes exclusively for ACT exams, grab this opportunity and get rid of all your grammar doubts once and for all!

3. Periods

They are used to break two complete/independent sentences. They can also be used in between letters for abbreviations 

4. Apostrophes

• For singular and plural nouns, an apostrophe is used to indicate possession.
• For singular nouns and acronyms, put an apostrophe + s at the end.
• They could be used to contract words (do not = don’t)
• Can pluralize numbers and letters ( 90’s, straight A’s)

Note that possessive pronouns do not require apostrophes because they would act redundantly.

Also Read: Looking for a Successful Career? Follow These Tips in Your Day to Day Routine for Better Results

5. Dashes

Single dash – performs the role of a colon by bringing an abrupt interruption to provide more information about it. A pair of dashes is equivalent to two appositive commas or parentheses.

These shouldn’t be confused with hyphens which are shorter than dashes.If you still have doubts regarding grammar or if you still aren’t sure about your grammar skills, feel free to contact us. And don’t forget to book a free trial class too.

Answer 

Eugene is one of the most laid-back people I know.

He is tall and fit with blonde hair, and he always wears a t-shirt and blue denims.

His jeans have cuts in them, and his football shoes are scruffy, too.

He usually sits at the back of the class, and he often seems to be asleep.

However, when the exam results are given out he always gets an “A”. I don’t think he’s as lazy as he appears to be.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why is punctuation important on the ACT?

A: Punctuation is important on the ACT because it can affect the meaning and clarity of the sentences in the English and Writing sections. Proper punctuation can make sentences easier to understand and more grammatically correct, which can improve your score.

Q2: What are some common punctuation mistakes to watch out for on the ACT?

A: Common punctuation mistakes include misusing commas, semicolons, and apostrophes. For example, misusing apostrophes in possessive or contractions can be a mistake.

Q3: How can I improve my punctuation skills for the ACT?

A: Practice is key to improving your punctuation skills for the ACT. Reviewing punctuation rules and taking practice tests can help you identify areas that need improvement. You can also consider working with a tutor that focuses specifically on punctuation for the ACT.

Q4: Are there any punctuation rules that are unique to the ACT?

A: While there are no punctuation rules that are unique to the ACT, the test may include less common punctuation marks such as dashes and colons. It’s important to be familiar with the correct usage of these marks to do well on the test.

Q5: How will my punctuation skills be tested on the ACT?

A: Punctuation will be tested through both multiple-choice questions and the essay section of the ACT. In the multiple-choice section, questions may ask you to identify and correct errors in punctuation. In the essay section, proper punctuation will be necessary to clearly convey your ideas and arguments.

Further Reading:

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