Punctuation questions are common on the SAT Writing and Language test. Understanding how to use commas, semicolons, colons, and apostrophes correctly will have a direct impact on your score.

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Commas (,)

Commas are the most frequently tested punctuation mark. Key uses include:

1. Separating items in a list: I need to buy apples, bananas, and oranges.
2. After an introductory phrase or clause: Before the test begins, you should sharpen your pencils.
3. To set off non-essential information: My brother, who lives in California, is a doctor.
4. To separate two independent clauses with a conjunction: I wanted to go to the beach, but it was raining.

Semicolons (;)

A semicolon is used to connect two closely related independent clauses. Think of it as a weak period.

• Correct: The meeting was a success; everyone agreed on the main points. The two clauses could stand alone as complete sentences.

Colons (:)

A colon is used to introduce a list, an explanation, or an example.

• Correct (List): I need three things for the trip: a map, a compass, and a water bottle.
• Correct (Explanation): He had one goal in mind: to win. The clause before the colon must be a complete sentence.

Apostrophes (’)

Apostrophes are used for two main purposes:

1. Possession: This is the student's book. (singular) or These are the students' books. (plural)
2. Contractions: It's (for it is) or they're (for they are). A common SAT trick is to confuse its (possessive) with it's (contraction).

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