TAP Grammar and Usage 3

Question 1

On the TAP, a comma splice occurs when:

Accepted Answer

Two independent clauses are joined with only a comma

Answer

A comma splice incorrectly joins two independent clauses using only a comma without a coordinating conjunction.

Question 2

Which correctly uses the comparative form of an adjective, as tested on the TAP?

Accepted Answer

She is smarter than her brother.

Answer

For one-syllable adjectives like 'smart,' add '-er' to form the comparative — not 'more.'

Question 3

On the TAP, which sentence correctly uses the past perfect tense?

Accepted Answer

She had finished her work before he arrived.

Answer

Past perfect ('had finished') indicates an action completed before another past action ('he arrived').

Question 4

On the TAP Grammar section, which sentence correctly uses 'who' versus 'whom'?

Accepted Answer

Whom did you speak to?

Answer

'Whom' is the object pronoun; since it is the object of the preposition 'to,' 'whom' is correct.

Question 5

Which sentence avoids the misuse of 'lay' and 'lie' as commonly tested on the TAP?

Accepted Answer

The cat likes to lie on the couch.

Answer

'Lie' (to recline) is intransitive; 'lie on the couch' is correct because the cat is doing the reclining.

TAP - Test of Academic Proficiency Practice Test