Master the essential rules and strategies to excel in the SAT Reading & Writing section with these proven techniques.
The SAT prefers the shortest, most direct way of saying something. If two answers are grammatically correct, pick the shorter one.
Identify the relationship between sentences (Addition, Contrast, or Cause/Effect) before choosing transition words like 'However' or 'Therefore'.
Ensure that items in a list or comparison follow the same grammatical form (e.g., all gerunds or all infinitive phrases).
Master the use of colons and dashes. Colons must follow a complete independent clause and introduce a list, quote, or explanation.
Always find the specific noun (antecedent) the pronoun is replacing to ensure they match in both number and gender.
Don't just look at the underlined part. Read the sentence before and after to understand the tone and logical flow.
Master these key grammar concepts tested repeatedly on the SAT.
Singular subjects take singular verbs; plural subjects take plural verbs.
Example: The student writes. The students write.
Pronouns must match their antecedents in number and person.
Example: Each student must bring their → his or her book.
Items in a list should have the same grammatical form.
Example: She likes reading, writing, and to study → and studying.
Non-essential modifiers need commas; essential ones don't.
Example: My sister, who lives in Boston, is visiting. (non-essential)
Keep verbs in the same time period unless context requires a shift.
Example: He walked to school and sees his friend → and saw his friend.
Eliminate redundant words and phrases for clarity.
Example: Due to the fact that → Because
Use apostrophes for possession and contractions, not for plurals.
Example: The dog's collar (possession), it's raining (it is), three dogs (plural)
Use comparative for two items, superlative for three or more.
Example: Between two: better, worse. Among many: best, worst.
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The word "being" is almost always incorrect in SAT Writing questions. Look for more concise alternatives.
Modifiers should be placed next to what they modify. Check that descriptive phrases are properly positioned.
Two independent clauses need proper punctuation (semicolon, period, or comma with conjunction).
Avoid phrases like "past history," "advance planning," or "end result." Choose concise wording.
Apply these tips with our adaptive mock tests and personalized feedback to master SAT Writing.