Semicolon = two full sentences: the SAT reading & writing trap

Short answer: Cover each side of the semicolon. Both halves must work as complete sentences.

The trap, in one question

Tempting answer: tired; I

Correct answer: tired, I  ("Because I was tired" can't stand alone)

Watch it in under a minute

How to spot it in 3 seconds

Cover each side of the semicolon. Both halves must work as complete sentences.

FAQ

What is the semicolon = two full sentences trap on the SAT?

Example: Because I was tired___ I went to bed. The tempting answer is tired; I; the correct answer is tired, I ("Because I was tired" can't stand alone).

How do you avoid the semicolon = two full sentences trap?

Cover each side of the semicolon. Both halves must work as complete sentences.

More Reading & Writing traps

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