Although commas are the most commonly correct punctuation mark on the SAT® exam, they aren’t always the right option.
Commas are used to separate certain participle phrases from the rest of the sentence. A participle is a -ing or -ed verb that functions as an adjective describing a noun (ex. the running boy or a used book).
Another clue that a comma is required is the phrase “such as.” When it comes right before a list, “such as” is preceded by a comma.
However,
commas should NOT be used by themselves between two independent clauses
(complete thoughts with subjects and main verbs); the result is an error called
a comma splice.
Incorrect comma splice:
To
correct a comma splice, use a semicolon, period, or comma and FANBOYS (for,
and, nor, but, or, yet, and so) conjunction between the independent clauses.
Correct:
If you need more practice with when to place commas on the SAT, use the released tests provided by the College Board® or practice online with exam-like questions at websites like UWorld.
