CPP Grammar, Punctuation & Syntax

Question 1

Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct?

Accepted Answer

She doesn’t like the book.

Answer

The correct answer uses the third-person singular present tense form of 'do' (does) with the negative contraction 'n't'. For third-person singular subjects like 'she,' 'he,' or 'it,' the auxiliary verb 'does' is required, not 'do.' Additionally, the main verb 'like' should be in its base form after 'does not,' avoiding the incorrect 'likes.'

Question 2

Which of the following sentences uses punctuation correctly?

Accepted Answer

I hope you’re happy with the results.

Answer

The correct sentence requires no commas because 'I hope' is a simple main clause followed by a subordinate clause ('you’re happy with the results') that functions as its direct object. No comma is needed to separate a main clause from a subordinate clause that completes its meaning. Inserting commas in other options would incorrectly break the flow of the sentence or separate essential elements.

Question 3

What is the correct use of the comma in this sentence?

Accepted Answer

We went to the store, and then we left.

Answer

A comma is correctly used before the coordinating conjunction 'and' when it connects two independent clauses. 'We went to the store' is an independent clause, and 'then we left' (which implies 'we then left') is also an independent clause. This comma signals a slight pause and helps separate the two distinct thoughts joined by the conjunction.

Question 4

Which of these sentences is a fragment?

Accepted Answer

Answer

A sentence fragment is an incomplete sentence that lacks a subject, a verb, or fails to express a complete thought. Option B, 'While she went to the park,' is a dependent clause introduced by the subordinating conjunction 'while.' It cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it leaves the reader expecting more information to complete its meaning.

Question 5

Which is the correct way to use the apostrophe?

Accepted Answer

It’s raining outside.

Answer

The apostrophe in 'It's' correctly indicates a contraction of 'it is.' 'Its' (without an apostrophe) is a possessive pronoun, meaning 'belonging to it,' which would be incorrect in this context. Options C and D misuse the apostrophe entirely, creating non-standard or grammatically incorrect forms.

(CPP) Certified Professional Proofreader Practice Test

(CPP) Certified Professional Proofreader Practice Test

CPP Grammar, Punctuation & Syntax