Question

A) NO CHANGE B) leave; C) leave, D) leave

Short answer

The correct answer is B) "leave;". The corrected sentence is: "I am going to the store; please leave some milk."

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the sentence

First, let's take a look at the sentence structure. The sentence is asking a favor but has two independent clauses, "I am going to the store" and "please leave some milk." These clauses need to be separated by appropriate punctuation.

Evaluate each option

A) NO CHANGE - As discussed above, the sentence currently has no punctuation separating the two independent clauses. Keeping it this way would not be grammatically correct. B) leave; - A semicolon (;) is used to separate two independent clauses when they are closely related in meaning. In this case, leaving a semicolon after "store" and before "please" will properly distinguish the two clauses. This option is currently the most suitable. C) leave, - A comma (,) is generally used to separate independent clauses when a coordinating conjunction (such as and, but, or) follows it. In this sentence, there is no coordinating conjunction, so using a comma would not be correct. D) leave - Repeating the word "leave" with no punctuation does not address the issue of the missing punctuation mark between the two independent clauses and it would not be appropriate.

Choose the correct option

Based on our analysis, option B) "leave;" is the most appropriate choice as it correctly separates the two independent clauses in the sentence. So the corrected sentence would be: "I am going to the store; please leave some milk."

Key concepts

Punctuation Usage

Understanding correct punctuation usage is pivotal when constructing sentences to ensure clarity and comprehension. In written English, punctuation marks are the signals that guide readers through the text, much like traffic signals. The most common punctuation marks include periods (.), commas (,), semicolons (;), colons (:), and question marks (?).

Each mark serves a unique function. For example, periods signal the end of a complete thought. Commas are versatile and can separate items in a list, clauses, or indicate a brief pause. Semicolons are particularly useful for linking two independent clauses that are closely related but could stand alone as separate sentences. They can also help in structuring complex lists. When you see a semicolon, it's often a cue that the ideas on either side of it are closely tied to each other.

To enhance your writing, it's important to use these marks correctly. Incorrect punctuation can change the meaning of a sentence or make it difficult to understand. Regular practice and paying attention to the context of the sentence are essential to mastering punctuation usage.

Independent Clauses

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb, and it expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence, or it can be part of a compound sentence joined by punctuation or coordinating conjunctions such as 'and', 'but', 'or', 'so', etc.

When two independent clauses are combined in a single sentence without the aid of a conjunction, it's crucial to use the correct punctuation to avoid creating a run-on sentence. The SAT Writing and Language Test frequently assesses your ability to recognize when and how to properly separate independent clauses.

For a clear and strong sentence, writers should determine whether the clauses are sufficiently related to merit a semicolon, or if they need the introduction of a conjunction with a comma. Remember that each independent clause has the capacity to be a sentence on its own, so it's important to convey their connection thoughtfully and correctly when they appear together.

Grammatical Correctness

Achieving grammatical correctness means your writing follows the standard rules of grammar that govern the English language. These rules cover a wide range of elements, from verb tense and subject-verb agreement to the proper use of pronouns and modifiers. Syntax, or the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences, is also a key component of grammatical correctness.

Why is grammatical correctness important, especially for tests like the SAT Writing and Language Test? It's simple: grammatical rules help ensure that your message is clear and that the sentences flow well. Even small errors can create confusion or lead to misunderstandings. Consistently following grammatical conventions also lends credibility to your writing and helps you effectively express complex ideas.

Improving your grammar requires practice and a good understanding of the rules. Helpful strategies include reading various types of writing, doing grammar exercises, and reviewing the rules periodically to keep your skills sharp. Always proofread your work to catch any errors and to refine your sentences for better clarity and impact.