SAT Grammar

Mastering SAT Grammar: The Key to a Higher Reading & Writing Score

One of the most critical components of the SAT Reading & Writing section is grammar. Officially known as Standard English Conventions, grammar-based questions test your understanding of the rules that govern written English. A solid grasp of grammar not only boosts your SAT score but also improves your overall writing skills—an essential advantage for college and beyond.

At MKS Education, we break down SAT grammar into manageable concepts, helping students gain confidence and accuracy. Here’s everything you need to know about this vital area of the test.

What Does SAT Grammar Test?

SAT grammar questions fall under the domain of Standard English Conventions, which accounts for nearly 25% of the Reading & Writing section. These questions focus on sentence-level issues, such as:

  • Grammar
  • Usage
  • Punctuation

Your job is to spot and correct errors in sentence structure, verb usage, subject-verb agreement, modifiers, punctuation, and more.

Major SAT Grammar Topics

Here are the core areas that SAT grammar questions test:

1. Subject-Verb Agreement

A singular subject needs a singular verb, and a plural subject needs a plural verb. You must recognize when intervening phrases distract from the correct match.

Example:
The group of students is going on a trip. (Not are)

2. Verb Tense and Form

Choose the correct verb tense based on the context and make sure the form is appropriate (simple, perfect, progressive, etc.).

Example:
She had finished the exam before the bell rang.

3. Pronoun Clarity and Agreement

Ensure that pronouns are clear in reference and agree in number and gender with the nouns they replace.

Example:
Each of the players brought his or her own water bottle.

4. Modifiers and Word Order

Modifiers should be placed next to the words they describe. Misplaced or dangling modifiers can confuse meaning.

Incorrect:
Running down the street, the backpack fell off his shoulder.
Correct:
Running down the street, he dropped his backpack.

5. Parallel Structure

Lists or comparisons must use consistent grammatical forms.

Example:
She likes dancing, singing, and writing.

6. Punctuation

You’ll be tested on:

  • Comma usage (in lists, clauses)
  • Apostrophes (possessive forms)
  • Dashes and colons
  • Avoiding comma splices or run-ons

Example:
Incorrect: The book is long, it is also complex.
Correct: The book is long, and it is also complex.

How SAT Grammar Questions Work

SAT grammar questions are embedded in short passages. You’ll be asked to choose the best version of a sentence or part of a sentence—or determine whether it needs to change at all.

Some questions may ask:

  • Which choice corrects the underlined portion?
  • Which choice maintains the sentence’s structure and clarity?
  • Should the writer add, delete, or revise a sentence?

Each question focuses on improving accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness.

How MKS Education Helps You Excel in SAT Grammar

At MKS Education, grammar instruction is more than just rules—it’s a practical skill set. We teach students how to recognize patterns, apply rules quickly, and avoid common traps. Here’s how:

  • Comprehensive grammar handbooks developed from over a decade of SAT expertise
  • Practice sets covering every grammar concept tested
  • Class recordings and video lectures to reinforce learning anytime
  • Grammar-focused drills and time-bound quizzes
  • Instructor-led analysis of real SAT grammar questions
  • 24/7 access to our LMS platform for continuous practice and feedback

Whether you’re learning online, in-person, or in our hybrid setup, our support continues until you hit your target score.

Sample SAT Grammar Question

Original Sentence:
The manager, along with her assistants, were present at the meeting.

Question:
Which correction should be made?
A) were → was
B) assistants → assistant
C) along → and
D) No change

Correct Answer: A) were → was
The subject is “manager,” which is singular. The correct verb is “was.”

Final Thoughts

SAT Grammar is all about precision, logic, and consistency. A strong foundation in grammar not only helps you score higher but also prepares you for college-level writing and communication. At MKS Education, we make sure every student becomes confident in grammar through focused lessons, practical application, and expert feedback.

Start preparing smart. Write better. Score higher.

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