Question

(F) NO CHANGE (G) 1884, and engineers (H) 1884. Engineers (J) 1884; engineers

Short answer

(H) 1884. Engineers

Step-by-step solution

- Understand Sentence Structure

Identify the sentence structure and the punctuation required to connect clauses or sentences properly. The aim is to determine the most grammatically correct way to link the sentence fragments.

- Evaluate NO CHANGE Option

Read the sentence with the NO CHANGE option. Determine if it conveys the correct meaning and if the punctuation is appropriately used.

- Evaluate Comma Option

Consider option (G) which uses a comma. A comma can be used to link dependent clauses or separate introductory phrases, but ensure it suits the structure and meaning of the sentence.

- Evaluate Period Option

Analyze option (H), where a period separates the phrases. This turns the fragments into separate sentences. Check if these fragments are independent clauses that warrant individual sentences.

- Evaluate Semicolon Option

Look at option (J) with a semicolon. A semicolon is used to link closely related independent clauses. Confirm if both parts of the sentence are independent clauses that need a closer link than a period can provide.

- Choose the Correct Option

Based on the analysis, determine which option preserves the meaning and grammatical correctness. Consider if the structure and punctuation best suit the relationship between the clauses.

Key concepts

Sentence Structure

Understanding sentence structure is essential for mastering ACT punctuation rules. Sentences can consist of independent or dependent clauses. An independent clause is a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence. A dependent clause, on the other hand, cannot stand alone and needs to be connected to an independent clause to form a complete sentence.
Here are some common structures:

• Simple Sentence: Contains one independent clause. For example: 'The dog barks.'
• Compound Sentence: Contains two independent clauses joined by a conjunction (e.g., and, but) or punctuation (e.g., comma, semicolon).
• Complex Sentence: Contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. For example: 'When the dog barks, the cat hides.'

Understanding these basic structures helps in identifying the correct punctuation for complex sentences.

Evaluating Punctuation

Punctuation plays a crucial role in clarifying sentence meaning. The ACT often tests your ability to choose the correct punctuation to join clauses or separate ideas.
Here's a quick guide:

• Comma (,): Used to separate items in a list, after introductory phrases, or before conjunctions in compound sentences.
• Period (.): Used to end a sentence and separate independent clauses.
• Semicolon (;): Links closely related independent clauses without a conjunction. It adds a longer pause than a comma, but shorter than a period.

When evaluating punctuation in a sentence, consider the relationship between clauses. Does a comma suffice, or does it need a period or semicolon? Accurate punctuation ensures clarity and coherence in writing.

Independent Clauses

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a complete sentence. For example: 'Engineers designed the bridge.'
When linking independent clauses:

• Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction (e.g., and, but, or): 'The sun set, and the sky turned red.'
• Use a semicolon: 'The sun set; the sky turned red.'
• Use a period to separate them into two sentences: 'The sun set. The sky turned red.'

Choosing the right punctuation depends on how closely you want to link the thoughts. Semicolons join ideas more closely than periods, while commas with conjunctions make compound sentences more fluent.

Dependent Clauses

A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a sentence. It depends on an independent clause to give it meaning.
For example: 'Although it was raining' is a dependent clause. It doesn't form a complete thought by itself.
Combining clauses:

• With a comma: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'
• Without a comma (if the dependent clause follows the independent clause): 'We went for a walk although it was raining.'

Dependent clauses often start with subordinating conjunctions like although, because, since, when, if, etc. Identifying dependent clauses helps in using the correct punctuation, thereby enhancing sentence clarity and coherence.