ACT English

A comprehensive guide to mastering English grammar, usage, and rhetorical skills for the ACT exam.

Basic Concepts

Grammar Foundations

Why Grammar Matters

Grammar is like the rules of a game—without them, chaos reigns! The ACT English section tests your knowledge of these rules, focusing on sentence structure, punctuation, and agreement.

Sentence Structure

Pay attention to how sentences are put together. Watch for fragments (incomplete sentences) and run-ons (sentences that go on too long without proper punctuation).

  • Fragment: "Because I went to the store."
  • Correct: "I went to the store."

Subject-Verb Agreement

A singular subject needs a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb. Mixing them up is one of the most common errors on the ACT.

  • Incorrect: "The team are winning."
  • Correct: "The team is winning."

Punctuation Basics

Use commas, semicolons, and colons correctly to clarify meaning and avoid confusion.

  • Comma splice: "She ran fast, she won the race."
  • Correct: "She ran fast, and she won the race."

Real-World Relevance

Good grammar makes your writing clearer and more professional, whether you're sending emails, writing essays, or posting on social media.

Examples

  • She jumps high. (Correct subject-verb agreement)

  • My friends and I are going to the movie tonight. (Proper sentence structure)

In a Nutshell

Grammar rules ensure your writing is clear, correct, and effective.

Key Terms

Fragment
An incomplete sentence that lacks a subject or verb.
Run-on
Two or more independent clauses joined without proper punctuation.
Subject-Verb Agreement
Matching the subject with the correct verb form.