English Grammar Test Punctuation Rules 5

Question 1

Which sentence uses a comma splice incorrectly?

Accepted Answer

She was tired, she went to bed.

Answer

A comma splice incorrectly joins two independent clauses with only a comma and no coordinating conjunction.

Question 2

Which sentence correctly uses an exclamation point with a quotation?

Accepted Answer

She yelled, "Watch out!"

Answer

The exclamation point goes inside the quotation marks when it belongs to the quoted speech.

Question 3

Which correctly demonstrates how to make a singular noun ending in 's' possessive?

Accepted Answer

Either is acceptable by style guide

Answer

Both 'James' car' and 'James's car' are accepted depending on the style guide (AP vs. Chicago) used.

Question 4

Which sentence correctly uses a comma after an introductory phrase?

Accepted Answer

After the long meeting, we went to lunch.

Answer

A comma follows an introductory prepositional or participial phrase before the main clause.

Question 5

What does an ellipsis at the end of a sentence indicate in creative writing?

Accepted Answer

A trailing off or unfinished thought

Answer

In creative writing, an ellipsis signals that a thought is trailing off, leaving something unsaid.

English Grammar Test Practice Test