Writing
The Writing section covers usage, mechanics, sentence structure, and research skills, along with essay writing. It tests the ability to recognize and produce clear, correct, standard written English.
Usage and Agreement
Common topics include subject-verb agreement, pronoun-antecedent agreement, and correct verb forms. For instance, the subject 'the list of supplies' is singular, so it takes the singular verb 'was,' even though a plural noun sits nearby in a prepositional phrase.
Mechanics and Sentence Structure
Punctuation, capitalization, and sentence construction are frequently tested. Skills include using a comma after an introductory clause, avoiding misplaced modifiers, maintaining parallel structure in a series, and distinguishing possessives from contractions such as 'its' and 'it's.'
Research and Language Skills
The section also addresses concise, effective writing and research skills such as citing sources. Citation credits the original author and lets readers verify information, supporting credibility and avoiding plagiarism. Strong writing removes redundancy while preserving meaning.