SAT Writing : Correcting Conjunction Errors

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SAT Writing

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Example Questions

Example Question #61 : Correcting Conjunction Errors

Replace the underlined portion with the answer choice that results in a sentence that is clear, precise, and meets the requirements of standard written English.

According to the census, more than three times as many people inhabit New York as in Chicago.

Possible Answers:

as in 

than in 

as inhabit 

compared to 

as well as 

Correct answer:

as inhabit 

Explanation:

“More than” implies a comparison in the sentence between New York and Chicago, immediately eliminating choices that don’t contain the word “as”, which functions as an adverb here. It is also important to keep uniformity between verbs when comparing two things. This means that because the verb “inhabit” is used in reference to New York, it must also be used in reference to Chicago. This leaves us with, "as inhabit." 

Example Question #62 : Correcting Conjunction Errors

Replace the underlined portion with the answer choice that results in a sentence that is clear, precise, and meets the requirements of standard written English.

Arthur Vandelay’s drawings were not popular during his lifetime, now are considered to be among the most valuable artworks in the world.

Possible Answers:

but being now 

but they now 

but are now 

now are 

the paintings are now 

Correct answer:

but are now 

Explanation:

This sentence contains two contrasting ideas: first, that Vandelay's paintings were not popular in his lifetime, and second, that they are now valuable. The conjunction “but” is thus necessary to include in the sentence.

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