PSAT Writing

PSAT Writing teaches students to master grammar, punctuation, and effective writing skills needed for the PSAT and beyond.

Grammar FoundationsPunctuation PowerSentence Structure and Style
Advanced Grammar: Parallelism and ModifiersClarity and ConcisenessCombining Sentences and Avoiding Run-Ons
Writing for School AssignmentsProfessional CommunicationWriting on Social Media
Process of EliminationPacing YourselfReading the Whole Sentence
Grammar FoundationsPunctuation PowerSentence Structure a...Advanced Grammar: Pa...Clarity and Concisen...Combining Sentences ...Writing for School A...Professional Communi...Writing on Social Me...Process of Eliminati...Pacing YourselfReading the Whole Se...
Basic Concepts

Punctuation Power

The Role of Punctuation

Punctuation marks are like traffic signals for your writing. They tell readers when to pause, stop, or keep going.

Key Punctuation Marks

  • Commas (,): Separate items in a list, set off introductory words, and clarify meaning.
  • Semicolons (;): Join two related independent clauses.
  • Colons (:): Introduce lists, explanations, or quotations.
  • Apostrophes (’): Show possession or form contractions.

Punctuation in Action

Using punctuation correctly can completely change the meaning of a sentence.

  • With commas: "Let's eat, Grandma!" (inviting Grandma to eat)
  • Without commas: "Let's eat Grandma!" (suggesting something scary!)

Tips for Success

  • Read sentences aloud to hear where natural pauses occur.
  • Double-check for run-on sentences or sentence fragments.

Examples

  • She bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

  • I have one goal: to win the race.

In a Nutshell

Punctuation guides readers and clarifies your message.

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Sentence Structure and Style