Standard English Conventions • 26% of test
Boundaries (Punctuation)
Select your difficulty level to start practicing. We recommend mastering each level before moving to the next.
Beginner16 Sets
Beginner Practice
Start here to build your foundation. Clear texts and straightforward questions.
Target Score
400-550
Intermediate16 Sets
Intermediate Practice
Level up with more complex passages and nuanced answer choices.
Target Score
550-700
Advanced15 Sets
Advanced Practice
Master the hardest concepts. Dense academic prose and abstract topics.
Target Score
700-800
What is Boundaries (Punctuation)?
Boundaries questions test your mastery of punctuation that separates sentence elements: commas, semicolons, colons, periods, and dashes. These are among the most rule-based questions on the SAT.
Step-by-Step Strategy
- 1Identify if the underlined portion is a complete sentence, fragment, or appositive
- 2Complete sentences need period, semicolon, or appropriate conjunction
- 3Fragments cannot stand alone after a period
- 4Use commas for non-essential information, no commas for essential
- 5Semicolons connect two complete sentences without conjunction
⚠️ Common Traps to Avoid
- ✗Creating comma splices (two sentences joined only by comma)
- ✗Using semicolons before fragments
- ✗Adding unnecessary commas around essential information
- ✗Confusing colons, semicolons, and dashes
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a comma splice?
Joining two complete sentences with just a comma. Fix with: period, semicolon, or comma + conjunction (and, but, so).
When do I use a semicolon?
Between two complete sentences that are closely related. Both sides must be able to stand alone as sentences.
How do I know if information is essential?
If removing it changes the meaning or makes the sentence unclear, it's essential (no commas). If it's extra detail, use commas.
What about dashes?
Dashes set off information with more emphasis than commas. They work like parentheses but are more dramatic.
When do I use a colon?
After a complete sentence to introduce a list, explanation, or example. What comes before the colon must be a complete thought.
Are boundaries questions common?
Yes, expect 5-8 per test. They are essential for the <a href='/reading-writing'>Standard English Conventions score</a>.
How do I avoid comma errors?
Learn the rules: lists, introductory elements, non-essential clauses, coordinating conjunctions before AND/BUT/OR.
What's the difference between 'which' and 'that'?
'Which' typically introduces non-essential info (commas). 'That' introduces essential info (no commas).
Should I read sentences aloud?
Pausing at commas can help, but rules are more reliable than 'sound.' Some correct answers may sound unusual.
How do I practice punctuation?
Study the rules first. Then, test yourself with our <a href='/reading-writing/boundaries/intermediate'>Intermediate Boundaries practice sets</a>.
Are these questions easy points?
They can be once you master the rules. Many students lose points by guessing instead of applying rules.
What's the most common mistake?
Comma splices and unnecessary commas. Learn when NOT to use commas as much as when to use them.
How do I use a 'Colon' for emphasis?
A colon can introduce a single word or short phrase at the end of a sentence for dramatic effect, explaining what came before.
What is 'Parallel Punctuation' with dashes?
If you open a parenthetical with a dash, you MUST close it with a dash. Don't mix 'a comma ... and a dash'.
When is a comma 'Optional'?
In very short introductory phrases (2-3 words), the comma is often optional, but it's never wrong to include it for clarity.
How do I handle 'Appositives'?
An appositive (a noun phrase renaming another noun) should be surrounded by commas if it is non-essential information.
Can I use a semicolon with 'However'?
Yes, if 'however' is used as a transition between two independent clauses (e.g., 'I ran; however, I was late').
What is a 'Restrictive' clause?
A clause essential to meaning. It has NO commas and usually starts with 'that' or refers to a specific individual.