An Mga Balaud San English Grammar

GRAMMAR RULES
Finding Subjects and Verbs

Grammar Table of Contents:

NOTE: We will use the convention of a thin underline for
subjects and a thick underline for verbs.
Being able to find the right subject and verb will help you
correct errors of agreement.
Example: The list of items is/are on the desk.
Being able to identify the subject and verb correctly will also
help you with commas and semicolons as you will see later.
Definition. A Verb is a word that shows action (runs, hits,
slides) or state of being (is, are, was, were, am, and so on).
Examples: He ran around the block.

You are my friend.

Rule
1.
If a verb follows to, it is called an infinitive phrase and
is not the main verb. You will find the main verb either
before or after the infinitive phrase.
Examples: I like to walk.
The efforts to get her elected succeeded.

Definition. A Subject is the noun or pronoun that performs
the verb.
Example: The woman hurried.
Woman is the subject.

Rule
2.
A subject will come before a phrase beginning with of.
Example: A bouquet of yellow roses will lend color
and fragrance to the room.

Rule
3.
To find the subject and verb, always find the verb first.
Then ask who or what performed the verb.
Examples: The jet engine passed inspection. Passed
is the verb. Who or what passed? The
engine, so engine is the subject. If you
included the word jet as the subject,
lightning will not strike you. Technically,
jet is an adjective here and is part of
what is known as the complete subject.
From the ceiling hung the chandelier. The
verb is hung. Now, if you think ceiling is
the subject, slow down. Ask who or what
hung. The answer is chandelier, not
ceiling. Therefore, chandelier is the
subject.

Rule
4.
Any request or command such as "Stop!" or "Walk
quickly." has the understood subject you because if
we ask who is to stop or walk quickly, the answer
must be you.
Example: (You) Please bring me some coffee.
Bring is the verb. Who is to do the
bringing? You understood.

Rule
5.
Sentences often have more than one subject, more
than one verb, or pairs of subjects and verbs.
Examples: I like cake and he likes ice cream.
Two pairs of subjects and verbs
He and I like cake.
Two subjects and one verb
She lifts weights and jogs daily.
One subject and two verbs

Finding Subjects and Verbs Quiz
3

1. Identify the correct subjects and verbs. The subjects are in bold
and the verbs are underlined.

A) He depends on her in times of need.

B) He depends on her in times of need.

C) He depends on her in times of need.

D) He depends on her in times of need.

A) Watch your step.

B) (You) watch your step.

C) (You) watch your step.

D) Watch your step.

A) The insurance agent gave her sound advice.

B) The insurance agent gave her sound advice.

C) The insurance agent gave her sound advice.

D) The insurance agent gave her sound advice.

A) On the table was her purse.

B) On the table was her purse.

C) On the table was her purse.

D) On the table was her purse.

A) In the newspaper, an interesting article appeared.

B) In the newspaper, an interesting article appeared.

C) In the newspaper, an interesting article appeared.

D) In the newspaper, an interesting article appeared.

A) Look before you leap.

B) (You) Look before you leap.

C) Look before you leap.

D) Look before you leap.

A) Across the road lived her boyfriend.

B) Across the road lived her boyfriend.

C) Across the road lived her boyfriend.

D) Across the road lived her boyfriend.

A) We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled air.

B) We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled air.

C) We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled air.

D) We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled air.


A) In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.

B) In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.

C) In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.

D) In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.

A) Around every cloud is a silver lining.

B) Around every cloud is a silver lining.

C) Around every cloud is a silver lining.

D) Around every cloud is a silver lining.

A) Every one of the roses bloomed.

B) Every one of the roses bloomed.

C) Every one of the roses bloomed.

D) Every one of the roses bloomed.

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Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: D He depends on her in times of need.
Your Answer: Not Answered

2.
Correct Answer: B (You) watch your step.

3.
Correct Answer: C The insurance agent gave her sound advice.

4.
Correct Answer: D On the table was her purse.

5.
Correct Answer: C In the newspaper, an interesting article appeared.

6.
Correct Answer: B (You) Look before you leap.

7.
Correct Answer: B Across the road lived her boyfriend.

8.
Correct Answer: D We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled
air.

9.
Correct Answer: D In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.
10.
Correct Answer: C Around every cloud is a silver lining.
11.
Correct Answer: A Every one of the roses bloomed.

Final Score: 0/11

Subject and Verb Agreement

post a response to the video

Basic
Rule.
The basic rule states that a singular subject takes a
singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural
verb.
NOTE: The trick is in knowing whether the subject is
singular or plural. The next trick is recognizing a
singular or plural verb.
Hint: Verbs do not form their plurals by adding an s
as nouns do. In order to determine which verb is
singular and which one is plural, think of which verb
you would use with he or she and which verb you
would use with they.
Example: talks, talk
Which one is the singular form? Which
word would you use with he? We say, "He
talks." Therefore, talks is singular. We
say, "They talk." Therefore, talk is plural.

Rule
1.
Two singular subjects connected by or or nor require a
singular verb.
Example: My aunt or my uncle is arriving by train
today.

Rule
2.
Two singular subjects connected by either/or or
neither/nor require a singular verb as in Rule 1.
Examples: Neither Juan nor Carmen is available.
Either Kiana or Casey is helping today
with stage decorations.

Rule
3.
When I is one of the two subjects connected by
either/or or neither/nor, put it second and follow it
with the singular verb am.
Example: Neither she nor I am going to the festival.

Rule
4.
When a singular subject is connected by or or nor to a
plural subject, put the plural subject last and use a
plural verb.
Example: The serving bowl or the plates go on that
shelf.

Rule
5.
When a singular and plural subject are connected by
either/or or neither/nor, put the plural subject last
and use a plural verb.
Example: Neither Jenny nor the others are
available.

Rule
6.
As a general rule, use a plural verb with two or more
subjects when they are connected by and.
Example: A car and a bike are my means of
transportation.

Rule
7.
Sometimes the subject is separated from the verb by
words such as along with, as well as, besides, or not.
Ignore these expressions when determining whether
to use a singular or plural verb.
Examples: The politician, along with the newsmen,
is expected shortly.
Excitement, as well as nervousness, is
the cause
of her shaking.

Rule
8.
The pronouns each, everyone, every one, everybody,
anyone, anybody, someone, and somebody are
singular and require singular verbs. Do not be misled
by what follows of.
Examples: Each of the girls sings well.
Every one of the cakes is gone.
NOTE: Everyone is one word when it
means everybody. Every one is two
words when the meaning is each one.

Rule
9.
With words that indicate portionspercent, fraction,
part, majority, some, all, none, remainder, and so
forth look at the noun in your of phrase (object of
the preposition) to determine whether to use a
singular or plural verb. If the object of the preposition
is singular, use a singular verb. If the object of the
preposition is plural, use a plural verb.
Examples: Fifty percent of the pie has disappeared.
Pie is the object of the preposition of.
Fifty percent of the pies have
disappeared.
Pies is the object of the preposition.
One-third of the city is unemployed.
One-third of the people are unemployed.
NOTE: Hyphenate all spelled-out
fractions.
All of the pie is gone.
All of the pies are gone.
Some of the pie is missing.
Some of the pies are missing.
None of the garbage was picked up.
None of the sentences were punctuated
correctly.
Of all her books, none have sold as well
as the first one.

NOTE: Apparently, the SAT testing service considers none as a
singular word only. However, according to Merriam Webster's
Dictionary of English Usage, "Clearly none has been both
singular and plural since Old English and still is. The notion
that it is singular only is a myth of unknown origin that
appears to have arisen in the 19th century. If in context it
seems like a singular to you, use a singular verb; if it seems
like a plural, use a plural verb. Both are acceptable beyond
serious criticism" (p. 664).

Rule
10.
When either and neither are subjects, they always
take singular verbs.
Examples: Neither of them is available to speak
right now.
Either of us is capable of doing the job.

Rule
11.
The words here and there have generally been labeled
as adverbs even though they indicate place. In
sentences beginning with here or there, the subject
follows the verb.
Examples: There are four hurdles to jump.
There is a high hurdle to jump.

Rule
12.
Use a singular verb with sums of money or periods of
time.
Examples: Ten dollars is a high price to pay.
Five years is the maximum sentence for
that offense.

Rule
13.
Sometimes the pronoun who, that, or which is the
subject of a verb in the middle of the sentence. The
pronouns who, that, and which become singular or
plural according to the noun directly in front of them.
So, if that noun is singular, use a singular verb. If it is
plural, use a plural verb.
Examples: Salma is the scientist who writes/write
the reports.
The word in front of who is scientist,
which is singular. Therefore, use the
singular verb writes.
He is one of the men who does/do the
work.
The word in front of who is men, which is
plural. Therefore, use the plural verb do.

Rule
14.
Collective nouns such as team and staff may be either
singular or plural depending on their use in the
sentence.
Examples: The staff is in a meeting.
Staff is acting as a unit here.
The staff are in disagreement about the
findings.
The staff are acting as separate
individuals in this example.
The sentence would read even better as:
The staff members are in disagreement
about the findings.

Are you ready for the quiz?

Subject and Verb Agreement Quiz
7

1. Choose the sentence in which the subjects and verbs have been
correctly identified and in which the subjects and verbs agree. The
subjects are in bold and the verbs are underlined.

A) At the end of the story, they was living happily ever after.

B) At the end of the story, they were living happily ever after.

C) At the end of the story, they were living happily ever after.

D) At the end of the story, they was living happily ever after.

A) Al and Eli go to the beach to surf with their friends.

B) Al and Eli go to the beach to surf with their friends.

C) Al and Eli goes to the beach to surf with their friends.

D) Al and Eli goes to the beach to surf with their friends.

A) When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends has waxed their
boards.

B) When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends has waxed their
boards.

C) When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends have waxed their
boards.

D) When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends have waxed
their boards.

A) The group of children from that school has never seen the ocean.

B) The group of children from that school have never seen the ocean.

C) The group of children from that school has never seen the ocean.

D) The group of children from that school have never seen the ocean.

A) If our staff members doesn't quit picking at each other, we will not
meet our goals.

B) If our staff members don't quit picking at each other, we will not
meet our goals.

C) If our staff members don't quit picking at each other, we will not
meet our goals.

D) If our staff members doesn't quit picking at each other, we will not
meet our goals.

A) Either Gary or I am responsible for allocating the funds.

B) Either Gary or I are responsible for allocating the funds.

C) Either Gary or I am responsible for allocating the funds.

D) Either Gary or I are responsible for allocating the funds.

A) Neither she nor they were willing to predict the election results.

B) Neither she nor they was willing to predict the election results.

C) Neither she nor they was willing to predict the election results.

D) Neither she nor they were willing to predict the election results.

A) Nora is one of the candidates who are worthy of my vote.

B) Nora is one of the candidates who is worthy of my vote.

C) Nora is one of the candidates who are worthy of my vote.

D) Nora is one of the candidates who is worthy of my vote.

A) Nora, of all the candidates who are running, is the best.

B) Nora, of all the candidates who are running, is the best.

C) Nora, of all the candidates who is running, is the best.

D) Nora, of all the candidates who is running, is the best.

A) My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exists
because I dropped out of high school.

B) My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exist

C) My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exists

D) My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exist

A) His dogs, which is kept outside, bark all day long.

B) His dogs, which is kept outside, bark all day long.

C) His dogs, which are kept outside, bark all day long.

D) His dogs, which are kept outside, bark all day long.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: C At the end of the story, they were living happily ever
after. (or were)
Explanation: Use a plural verb with a plural subject.

2.
Correct Answer: B Al and Eli go to the beach to surf with their friends.
Explanation: Use a plural verb with a plural subject. You would say "they
go."

3.
Correct Answer: D When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends
have waxed their boards.
Explanation: "Arrive" is the plural verb used with the plural subjects "Al" and
"Eli." "Find" is the plural verb used with the plural subject "they." "Have" is
the plural helping verb used with the plural subject "friends."

4.
Correct Answer: C The group of children from that school has never
seen the ocean.
Explanation: "Group" is a singular collective noun so takes a singular verb.
With "has" or "have," use "seen," not "saw." "Never" could be considered
part of the complete verb.

5.
Correct Answer: B If our staff members don't quit picking at each
other, we will not meet our goals. (or don't quit picking)
Explanation: Use a plural verb with a plural subject. "Staff" is an adjective
describing "members." "Picking" could be considered part of the complete
verb. "Not" could also be considered part of the complete verb.

6.
Correct Answer: C Either Gary or I am responsible for allocating the
funds.
Explanation: When two subjects are connected by "or" and the second
subject is "I," put "I" second and use the singular verb "am." "Responsible"
is an adjective, not a verb, but may be considered part of the complete verb.

7.
Correct Answer: A Neither she nor they were willing to predict the
election results. (or were)
Explanation: With two subjects, place the plural subject last and use a plural
verb. "Willing" is part of the complete verb. "Neither" is only the subject
when it is followed by "of" or when no nouns or pronouns directly follow.

8.
Correct Answer: A Nora is one of the candidates who are worthy of my
vote.
Explanation: "Nora is" is a singular subject and verb pair. When "who" is
followed by a verb, it becomes the subject of that verb. To determine
whether "who" is singular or plural, look at the noun directly preceding it.
Since "candidates" is plural, "who" becomes plural so use "are."

9.
Correct Answer: B Nora, of all the candidates who are running, is the
best. (or are)
Explanation: "Nora" is the singular subject of the main clause "Nora is the
best." When "who" is followed by a verb, it becomes the subject of that
verb. To determine whether "who" is singular or plural, look at the noun
directly preceding it. Since "candidates" is plural, "who" becomes plural so
use "are."

10.
Correct Answer: C My problem, which is minor in comparison with
others, exists because I dropped out of high school.
Explanation: When "which" is followed by a verb, it becomes the subject of
that verb. To determine whether "which" is singular or plural, look at the
noun directly preceding it. Since "problem" is singular, "which" becomes
singular so use "is" as the verb. The main clause is "My problem exists." "I
dropped out of high school" is another clause.

11.
Correct Answer: D His dogs, which are kept outside, bark all day long.
Explanation: When "which" is followed by a verb, it becomes the subject of
that verb. To determine whether "which" is singular or plural, look at the
noun directly preceding it. Since "dogs" is plural, "which becomes plural so
use "are" as the plural verb following it. The main clause is "His dogs bark all
day long."

Final Score: 0/11

Pronouns

Definition. - A pronoun is a word that takes the place of a
noun. Pronouns can be in one of three cases: Subject, Object,
or Possessive.
Rule
1.
Subject pronouns are used when the pronoun is the
subject of the sentence. You can remember subject
pronouns easily by filling in the blank subject space
for a simple sentence.
Example: ______ did the job.
I, you, he, she, it, we, and they all fit into
the blank and are, therefore, subject
pronouns.

Rule
2.
Subject pronouns are also used if they rename the
subject. They follow to be verbs such as is, are, was,
were, am, and will be.
Examples: It is he.
This is she speaking.
It is we who are responsible for the
decision to downsize.
NOTE: In spoken English, most people tend to follow
to be verbs with object pronouns. Many English
teachers support (or at least have given in to) this
distinction between written and spoken English.
Example: It could have been them.
Better: It could have been they.
Example: It is just me at the door.
Better: It is just I at the door.

Rule
3.
Object pronouns are used everywhere else (direct
object, indirect object, object of the preposition).
Object pronouns are me, you, him, her, it, us, and
them.
Examples: Jean talked to him.
Are you talking to me?

To be able to choose pronouns correctly, you must learn to
identify clauses. A clause is a group of words containing a verb
and subject.
Rule
4a.
A strong clause can stand on its own.
Examples: She is hungry.
I am feeling well today.

Rule
4b.
A weak clause begins with words such as although,
since, if, when, and because. Weak clauses cannot
stand on their own.
Examples: Although she is hungry...
If she is hungry...
Since I am feeling well...

Rule
4c.
If a sentence contains more than one clause, isolate
the clauses so that you can decide which pronoun is
correct.
Examples: Weak Strong
[Although she is
hungry,]
[she will give him
some of her
food.]
[Although this gift is
for him,]
[I would like you
to have it too.]

Rule
5.
To decide whether to use the subject or object
pronoun after the words than or as, mentally complete
the sentence.
Examples: Tranh is as smart as she/her.
If we mentally complete the sentence,
we would say, "Tranh is as smart as she
is." Therefore, she is the correct answer.
Zoe is taller than I/me.
Mentally completing the sentence, we
have, "Zoe is taller than I am."
Daniel would rather talk to her than
I/me.
We can mentally complete this sentence
in two ways: "Daniel would rather talk to
her than to me." OR "Daniel would rather
talk to her than I would." As you can see,
the meaning will change depending on
the pronoun you choose.

Rule
6.
Possessive pronouns show ownership and never need
apostrophes.
Possessive pronouns: mine, yours, his, hers, its, ours,
theirs
NOTE The only time it's has an apostrophe is
when it is a contraction for it is or it has.
Examples: It's a cold morning.
The thermometer reached its highest
reading.

Rule
7.
Reflexive pronouns - myself, himself, herself, itself,
themselves, ourselves, yourself, yourselves- should be
used only when they refer back to another word in the
sentence.
Correct: I worked myself to the bone.
Incorrect: My brother and myself did it.
The word myself does not refer back to
another word.
Correct: My brother and I did it.
Incorrect: Please give it to John or myself.
Correct: Please give it to John or me.


Pronouns Quiz
10

1. Choose the sentence with the correct pronoun.

A) Her went to the store.

B) She went to the store.

A) It was her.

B) It was she.

A) We talked to him.

B) We talked to he.

A) It is I.

B) It is me.

A) Talk to they before making a decision.

B) Talk to them before making a decision.

A) Can you go with we?

B) Can you go with us?

A) Saleha and she have quit the team.

B) Saleha and her have quit the team.
8. Choose the sentence with the correct pronouns.

A) They asked him and I to join the staff.

B) They asked he and me to join the staff.

C) They asked him and me to join the staff.

D) They asked he and I to join the staff.

A) That call was for I, not he.

B) That call was for me, not him.

C) That call was for me, not he.

D) That call was for I, not him.

A) You didn't tell we that they were here first.

B) You didn't tell us that them were here first.

C) You didn't tell us that they were here first.

D) You didn't tell we that them were here first.

A) I wonder what he could have said to she.

B) I wonder what him could have said to her.

C) Me wonder what him could have said to she.

D) I wonder what he could have said to her.


Who vs. Whom

Rule. Use the he/him method to decide which word is
correct.
he = who
him = whom
Examples: Who/Whom wrote the letter?
He wrote the letter. Therefore, who is
correct.
For who/whom should I vote?
Should I vote for him? Therefore, whom
is correct.
We all know who/whom pulled that
prank.
This sentence contains two clauses: We
all know and who/whom pulled that
prank. We are interested in the second
clause because it contains the
who/whom. He pulled that prank.
Therefore, who is correct. (Are you
starting to sound like a hooting owl
yet?)
We want to know on who/whom the
prank was pulled.
This sentence contains two clauses: We
want to know and the prank was pulled
on who/whom. Again, we are interested
in the second clause because it contains
the who/whom. The prank was pulled on
him. Therefore, whom is correct.

Are you ready for the quiz

Who, Whom, Whoever, Whomever Quiz
12

1. Choose the correct sentence.

A) Whom is your closest friend?

B) Who is your closest friend?

A) Who do you bank with?

B) Whom do you bank with?

A) Who do you think will win the award?

B) Whom do you think will win the award?

A) Clare knows whom the winner is already.

B) Clare knows who the winner is already.

A) Omar will talk about his girlfriend with whoever asks him.

B) Omar will talk about his girlfriend with whomever asks him.

A) Kimiko donates her time to whoever needs it most.

B) Kimiko donates her time to whomever needs it most.

A) Quinton will work on the project with whomever you suggest.

B) Quinton will work on the project with whoever you suggest.

A) Whom was that in the clown costume?

B) Who was that in the clown costume?

A) Kathy was not sure who she was voting for.

B) Kathy was not sure whom she was voting for.

A) Whoever wins the lottery will become a millionaire.

B) Whomever wins the lottery will become a millionaire.


Grade Quiz

Who, Whom, Whoever, Whomever Quiz
12























Grade Quiz

Whoever vs. Whomever

Rule
1.
To determine whether to use whoever or whomever,
here is the rule:
him + he = whoever
him + him = whomever
Examples: Give it to whoever/whomever asks for it
first.
Give it to him. He asks for it first.
Therefore, Give it to whoever asks for
it first.
We will hire whoever/whomever you
recommend.
We will hire him. You recommend him.
him + him = whomever
We will hire whoever/whomever is
most qualified.
We will hire him. He is most qualified.
him + he = whoever

Rule
2.
When the entire whoever/whomever clause is the
subject of the verb that follows the clause, look inside
the clause to determine whether to use whoever or
whomever.
Examples: Whoever is elected will serve a
four-year term.
Whoever is elected is the subject of
will serve.
Whoever is the subject of is.
Whomever you elect will serve a
four-year term.
Whomever you elect is the subject of
will serve.
Whomever is the object of you elect.

\\Who, Whom, Whoever, Whomever Quiz
12























Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: B Who is your closest friend?
Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "He is your closest
friend."

2.
Correct Answer: B Whom do you bank with? OR With whom do you
bank?
Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "Do you bank with
him?" Note: You may end a sentence with a preposition such as "with."

3.
Correct Answer: A Who do you think will win the award?
Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "Do you think he will
win the award?"

4.
Correct Answer: B Clare knows who the winner is already.
Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "Clare knows. He is
the winner already."

5.
Correct Answer: A Omar will talk about his girlfriend with whoever asks
him.
Explanation: him + he = whoever him + him = whomever You
would say, Omar will talk about his girlfriend with him. He asks him."

6.
Correct Answer: A Kimiko donates her time to whoever needs it most.
would say, "Kimiko donates her time to him. He needs it most."

7. Correct Answer: A Quinton will work on the project with whomever
you suggest.
would say, "Quinton will work on the project with him. You suggest him."

8. Correct Answer: B Who was that in the clown costume?
Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "He was that."

9.
Correct Answer: B Kathy was not sure whom she was voting for.
[It is an old wives' tale that you can't end a sentence with a preposition. Just
don't end sentences with extra prepositions.]
Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "Kathy was not sure.
She was voting for him."

10.
Correct Answer: A Whoever wins the lottery will become a millionaire.
Explanation: When the entire whoever/whomever clause is the subject of the
verb that follows the clause, look inside the first clause to determine
whether to use whoever or whomever. In this sentence, you would say, "He
wins the lottery." Therefore, use "whoever."

Final Score: 0/10

That vs. Which

Rule
1.
Who refers to people. That and which refer to groups
or things.
Examples: Anya is the one who rescued the bird.
Lokua is on the team that won first
place.
She belongs to an organization that
specializes in saving endangered species.

Rule
2.
That introduces essential clauses while which
introduces nonessential clauses.
Examples: I do not trust products that claim "all
natural ingredients" because this phrase
can mean almost anything.
We would not know which products were
being discussed without the that clause.
The product claiming "all natural
ingredients," which appeared in the
Sunday newspaper, is on sale.
The product is already identified.
Therefore, which begins a nonessential
clause.
NOTE: Essential clauses do not have commas
surrounding them while nonessential
clauses are surrounded by commas.

Rule
3.
If this, that, these, or those has already introduced an
essential clause, you may use which to introduce the
next clause, whether it is essential or nonessential.
Examples: That is a decision which you must live
with for the rest of your life.
Those ideas, which we've discussed
thoroughly enough, do not need to be
addressed again.
NOTE: Often, you can streamline your sentence
by leaving out which.
Example: That is a decision which you must live
with for the rest of your life.
Better: That is a decision you must live with for
the rest of your life.


Who, Whom, That, Which Quiz
14


A) Ahmed is the skydiver that broke his back last week.

B) Ahmed is the skydiver whom broke his back last week.

C) Ahmed is the skydiver who broke his back last week.

D) Ahmed is the skydiver which broke his back last week.

A) That is a problem who can't be solved without a calculator.

B) That is a problem which can't be solved without a calculator.

C) That is a problem that can't be solved without a calculator.

D) That is a problem whom can't be solved without a calculator.

A) That is a promise that cannot be broken.

B) That is a promise who cannot be broken.

C) That is a promise whom cannot be broken.

D) That is a promise which cannot be broken.

A) The domino theory, who stated that when one country fell to
Communism, others in the area would likely fall, was used as an
argument to continue the Vietnam War.

B) The domino theory, that stated that when one country fell to

C) The domino theory, which stated that when one country fell to

D) The domino theory, whom stated that when one country fell to

A) The game which intrigues Gretchen the most is dominoes.

B) The game whom intrigues Gretchen the most is dominoes.

C) The game who intrigues Gretchen the most is dominoes.

D) The game that intrigues Gretchen the most is dominoes.

A) Gandhi, whom was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was
assassinated.

B) Gandhi, who was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was
assassinated.

C) Gandhi, that was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was
assassinated.

D) Gandhi, which was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was
assassinated.

A) The tomatoes that grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in a
store.

B) The tomatoes which grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in
a store.
C) The tomatoes who grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in a
store.

D) The tomatoes whom grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in
a store.

A) The tomatoes from her garden, that grew larger than those in the
grocery store, were sweet and ripe.

B) The tomatoes from her garden, who grew larger than those in the

C) The tomatoes from her garden, which grew larger than those in the

D) The tomatoes from her garden, whom grew larger than those in the

A) The baker which baked that bread should win an award.

B) The baker whom baked that bread should win an award.

C) The baker that baked that bread should win an award.

D) The baker who baked that bread should win an award.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: C Ahmed is the skydiver who broke his back last week.
Explanation: Use who or whom when referring to people. Remember the
formula: "he = who" "him = whom." You could say, "Ahmed is the skydiver.
He broke his back last week."

2.
Correct Answer: B That is a problem which can't be solved without a
calculator.
Explanation: Use which to introduce an essential clause if you have already
used that to introduce a previous clause.

3.
Correct Answer: D That is a promise which cannot be broken.
Explanation: Use which to introduce an essential clause if you have already
used that to introduce a previous clause.

4.
Correct Answer: C The domino theory, which stated that when one
country fell to Communism, others in the area would likely fall, was used as
an argument to continue the Vietnam War.
Explanation: Use which to introduce a nonessential clause;i.e., one that
follows a noun previously identified sufficiently. "Domino theory" is already
sufficient identification. Introduce which with a comma and follow a
which clause with a comma if the sentence continues.

5.
Correct Answer: D The game that intrigues Gretchen the most is
dominoes.
Explanation: Use that to introduce an essential clause; i.e., one that is
necessary to identify a previous word. You don't know which game is being
referred to so the information that follows is essential.

6.
Correct Answer: B Gandhi, who was a role model for nonviolence to
millions, was assassinated.
formula: "he = who" "him = whom." You could say, "Gandhi was
assassinated. He was a role model for nonviolence to millions." Note that the
main clause was interrupted by another clause.

7.
Correct Answer: A The tomatoes that grow in her garden are unlike
those you buy in a store.
Explanation: Use that to introduce an essential clause; i.e., one that is
necessary to identify a previous word. You wouldn't know which tomatoes
were being referred to so the clause that follows is essential for
identification.

8.
Correct Answer: C The tomatoes from her garden, which grew larger
than those in the grocery store, were sweet and ripe.
Explanation: Use which to introduce a nonessential clause; i.e., one that
follows a noun previously identified sufficiently. Introduce which with a
comma and follow a which clause with a comma if the sentence continues.
Because of the phrase "from her garden," you already know which tomatoes
were sweet and ripe.

9.
Correct Answer: D The baker who baked that bread should win an
award.
formula: "he = who" "him = whom." You could say, "The baker should win
an award. He baked that bread." Note that the main clause was interrupted
by another clause.

Final Score: 0/9

Adjectives and Adverbs

Definition - Adjectives are words that describe nouns or
pronouns. They may come before the word they describe (That
is a cute puppy.) or they may follow the word they describe
(That puppy is cute.).
Definition - Adverbs are words that modify everything but
nouns and pronouns. They modify adjectives, verbs, and other
adverbs. A word is an adverb if it answers how, when, or
where.
The only adverbs that cause grammatical problems are those
that answer the question how, so focus on these.
Examples: He speaks slowly.
Answers the question how.
He speaks very slowly.
Answers the question how slowly.

Rule
1.
Generally, if a word answers the question how, it is an
adverb. If it can have an -ly added to it, place it there.
Examples: She thinks slow/slowly.
She thinks how? slowly.
She is a slow/slowly thinker.
Slow does not answer how, so no -ly is
attached. Slow is an adjective here.
She thinks fast/fastly.
Fast answers the question how, so it is
an adverb. But fast never has an -ly
attached to it.
We performed bad/badly.
Badly describes how we performed.

Rule
2.
A special -ly rule applies when four of the senses -
taste, smell, look, feel - are the verbs. Do not ask if
these senses answer the question how to determine if
-ly should be attached. Instead, ask if the sense verb
is being used actively. If so, use the -ly.
Examples: Roses smell sweet/sweetly.
Do the roses actively smell with noses?
No, so no -ly.
The woman looked angry/angrily.
Did the woman actively look with eyes or
are we describing her appearance? We
are only describing appearance, so no -
ly.
The woman looked angry/angrily at the
paint splotches.
Here the woman did actively look with
eyes, so the -ly is added.
She feels bad/badly about the news.
She is not feeling with fingers, so no -ly.

Good vs. Well
Rule
3.
The word good is an adjective, while well is an adverb.
Examples: You did a good job.
Good describes the job.
You did the job well.
Well answers how.
You smell good today.
Describes your odor, not how you smell
with your nose, so follow with the
adjective.
You smell well for someone with a cold.
You are actively smelling with a nose
here, so follow with the adverb.

Rule
4.
When referring to health, use well rather than good.
Examples: I do not feel well.
You do not look well today.
NOTE: You may use good with feel when you
are not referring to health.
Example: I feel good about my decision to learn
Spanish.

Rule
5.
A common error in using adjectives and adverbs
arises from using the wrong form for comparison. For
instance, to describe one thing we would say poor, as
in, "She is poor." To compare two things, we should
say poorer, as in, "She is the poorer of the two
women." To compare more than two things, we
should say poorest, as in, "She is the poorest of them
all."
Examples: One Two Three or
More
sweet sweeter sweetest
bad worse worst
efficient* more
efficient*
most
efficient*
*Usually with words of three or more syllables, don't add -er
or -est. Use more or most in front of the words.

Rule
6.
Never drop the -ly from an adverb when using the
comparison form.
Correct: She spoke quickly.
She spoke more quickly than he did.
Incorrect: She spoke quicker than he did.
Correct: Talk quietly.
Talk more quietly.
Incorrect: Talk quieter.

Rule
7.
When this, that, these, and those are followed by
nouns, they are adjectives. When they appear without
a noun following them, they are pronouns.
Examples: This house is for sale.
This is an adjective here.
This is for sale.
This is a pronoun here.

Rule This and that are singular, whether they are being
8. used as adjectives or as pronouns. This points to
something nearby while that points to something
"over there."
Examples: This dog is mine.
That dog is hers.
This is mine.
That is hers.

Rule
9.
These and those are plural, whether they are being
used as adjectives or as pronouns. These points to
something nearby while those points to something
"over there."
Examples: These babies have been smiling for a
long time.
These are mine.
Those babies have been crying for hours.
Those are yours.

Rule
10.
Use than to show comparison. Use then to answer the
question when.
Examples: I would rather go skiing than rock
climbing.
First we went skiing; then we went rock
climbing.


Adjectives and Adverbs Quiz
16


A) Come quick or we will miss our bus.

B) Come quickly or we will miss our bus.

A) You drive so slow that I am afraid someone will hit the car from
behind.

B) You drive so slowly that I am afraid someone will hit the car from
behind.

A) I have never been more sure of anything in my life.

B) I have never been more surer of anything in my life.

A) Ella was the best of the two sisters at gymnastics.

B) Ella was the better of the two sisters at gymnastics.

A) You did that somersault so well.

B) You did that somersault so good.

A) Rochelle felt badly about forgetting Devlin's birthday.

B) Rochelle felt bad about forgetting Devlin's birthday.

A) This is the worse oil spill I have ever seen.

B) This is the worst oil spill I have ever seen.

A) The jasmine has bloomed and smells very sweet.

B) The jasmine has bloomed and smells very sweetly.

A) You look angry. What did I do?

B) You look angrily. What did I do?

A) She looked suspicious at the man wearing the trench coat.

B) She looked suspiciously at the man wearing the trench coat.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: B Come quickly or we will miss our bus.
Explanation: Generally, if a word answers the question how, it is an adverb.
If it can have an "-ly" added to it, place it there.

2.
Correct Answer: B You drive so slowly that I am afraid someone will hit
the car from behind.
Explanation: Generally, if a word answers the question how, it is an adverb.
If it can have an "-ly" added to it, place it there.

3.
Correct Answer: A I have never been more sure of anything in my life.
(OR surer)
Explanation: It is redundant to add "more" and "-er."

4.
Correct Answer: B Ella was the better of the two sisters at gymnastics.
Explanation: Use "better" to compare two people or things.

5.
Correct Answer: A You did that somersault so well.
Explanation: The word "good" is an adjective, while "well" is an adverb
answering the question "how."

6.
Correct Answer: B Rochelle felt bad about forgetting Devlin's birthday.
Explanation: A special "-ly" rule applies when four of the senses - taste,
smell, look, feel - are the verbs. Do not ask if these senses answer the
question "how" to determine if "-ly" should be attached. Instead, ask if the
sense verb is being used actively. If so, use the "-ly." If the sense verb is
not being used actively, don't use the "-ly."

7.
Correct Answer: B This is the worst oil spill I have ever seen.
Explanation: Use "worst" to compare more than two things.

8.
Correct Answer: A The jasmine has bloomed and smells very sweet.

9.
Correct Answer: A You look angry. What did I do?

10.
Correct Answer: B She looked suspiciously at the man wearing the
trench coat.
not being used actively, don't use the "-ly." In this sentence, she is looking
with eyes, which is considered active.

Final Score: 0/10

Problems with Prepositions

Rule
1.
You may end a sentence with a preposition. Just do
not use extra prepositions when the meaning is clear
without them.
Examples:
Correct: That is something I cannot agree
with.
That is something with which I
cannot agree.
Correct: Where did he go?
Incorrect: Where did he go to?
Correct: Where did you get this?
Incorrect: Where did you get this at?
Correct: I will go later.
Incorrect: I will go later on.
Correct: Take your shoes off the bed.
Incorrect: Take your shoes off of the bed.
Correct: You may look out the window.
Incorrect: You may look out of the window.
Correct: Cut it into small pieces.
Incorrect: Cut it up into small pieces.

Rule
2.
Use on with expressions that indicate the time of an
occurrence.
Examples: He was born on December 23.
We will arrive on the fourth.

Rule
3.
Of should never be used in place of have.
Correct: I should have done it.
Incorrect: I should of done it.

Rule
4.
Between refers to two. Among is used for three or
more.
Examples: Divide the candy between the two of
you.
Divide the candy among the three of
you.

Rule
5.
The word like may be used as a preposition and in
informal writing, as a conjunction. In formal writing,
use as, as if, or as though rather than like as the
conjunction.
Examples: Prepositional usage
You look so much like your mother.
Conjunction usage
You look like you are angry.
OR
You look as if you are angry.


Problems with Prepositions Quiz
18


A) Our ship leaves August 15.

B) Our ship leaves on August 15.

A) I could have danced all night.

B) I could of danced all night.

A) Where did you get this from?

B) Where did you get this?

A) If we split it evenly between the three of us, no one will be
unhappy.
B) If we split it evenly among the three of us, no one will be unhappy.


A) The lioness ate as if she hadn't eaten food in a week.

B) The lioness ate like she hadn't eaten food in a week.

A) He will be back the tenth.

B) He will be back on the tenth.

A) Take your plate off of the table.

B) Take your plate off the table.

A) Cut the pie into six slices.

B) Cut the pie up into six slices.

A) As the invitation stated, we'll see you the tenth for our reunion.

B) Like the invitation stated, we'll see you on the tenth for our
reunion.

C) As the invitation stated, we'll see you on the tenth for our reunion.

D) Like the invitation stated, we'll see you the tenth for our reunion.

A) I don't know what you are talking about.

B) I don't know of what you are talking about.

A) You could of told me about the mistake earlier.

B) You could have told me about the mistake earlier.

A) I don't know where he is or I would tell you.

B) I don't know where he is at or I would tell you.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: B Our ship leaves on August 15.
Explanation: Use "on" with dates.

2.
Correct Answer: A I could have danced all night.
Explanation: Never use "of" when you mean "have."

3.
Correct Answer: B Where did you get this?
Explanation: "At" is an unnecessary preposition.

4.
Correct Answer: B If we split it evenly among the three of us, no one
will be unhappy.
Explanation: Use "between" for two and "among" for three or more.

5.
Correct Answer: A The lioness ate as if she hadn't eaten food in a week.
Explanation: "Like" is a preposition so can't be followed by a subject and
verb.

6.
Correct Answer: B He will be back on the tenth.
Explanation: Use "on" with dates.

7.
Correct Answer: B Take your plate off the table.
Explanation: "Of" is an unnecessary preposition.

8.
Correct Answer: A Cut the pie into six slices.
Explanation: "Up" is an unnecessary preposition.

9.
Correct Answer: C As the invitation stated, we'll see you on the tenth
for our reunion.
Explanation: "Like" is a preposition so can't be followed by a subject and
verb. Use "on" with dates.

10.
Correct Answer: A I don't know what you are talking about.
Explanation: "Of" is an unnecessary preposition.

11.
Correct Answer: B You could have told me about the mistake earlier.
Explanation: Don't use "of" when you mean "have."

12.
Correct Answer: A I don't know where he is or I would tell you.
Explanation: "At" is an unnecessary preposition.

Final Score: 0/12

Effective Writing

Rule 1. Use concrete rather than vague language.
Examples: Vague: The weather was of an extreme
nature on the west coast.
Concrete: California had very cold weather
last week.

Rule 2. Use active voice whenever possible. Active voice
means the subject is performing the verb.
Examples: Active: Barry hit the ball.
Passive: The ball was hit.
Notice that the responsible party
may not even appear when using
passive voice.

Rule
3.
Avoid overusing there is, there are, it is, it was, and
so on.
Example: There is a case of meningitis that was
reported in the newspaper.
Correction: A case of meningitis was reported in
the newspaper.
Even
Better:
The newspaper reported a case of
meningitis. (Active voice)
Example: It is important to signal before making
a left turn.
Correction: Signaling before making a left turn is
important.
OR
Signaling before a left turn is
important.
OR
You should signal before making a left
turn. (Active voice)
Example: There are some revisions which must
be made.
Correction: Some revisions must be made.
Even
Better:
Please make some revisions. (Active
voice)

Rule
4.
To avoid confusion, don't use two negatives to make a
positive.
Incorrect: He is not unwilling to help.
Correct: He is willing to help.

Rule
5.
Use similar grammatical form when offering several
ideas. This is called parallel construction.
Correct: You should check your spelling,
grammar, and punctuation.
Incorrect: You should check your spelling,
grammar, and punctuating.

Rule
6.
If you start a sentence with an action, place the actor
immediately after or you will have created the
infamous dangling modifier.
Incorrect: While walking across the street, the bus
hit her.
Correct: While walking across the street, she was
hit by a bus.
OR
She was hit by a bus while walking
across the street.

Rule
7.
Place modifiers near the words they modify.
Incorrect: I have some pound cake Mollie baked in
my lunch bag.
Correct: In my lunch bag, I have some pound
cake that Mollie baked.

Rule
8.
A sentence fragment occurs when you have only a
phrase or weak clause but are missing a strong
clause.
Example of
Sentence
Fragment:
After the show ended.
Example of
Sentence:
After the show ended, we had
coffee.


Affect vs. Effect Quiz
20


A) The affect of the antibiotic on her infection was surprising.

B) The effect of the antibiotic on her infection was surprising.

A) I did not know that antibiotics could affect people so quickly.

B) I did not know that antibiotics could effect people so quickly.

A) Plastic surgery had an effect, not only on her appearance, but on
her self-esteem.

B) Plastic surgery had an affect, not only on her appearance, but on
her self-esteem.

A) If the chemotherapy has no affect, should she get surgery for the
tumor?

B) If the chemotherapy has no effect, should she get surgery for the
tumor?

A) When will we know if the chemotherapy has taken effect?

B) When will we know if the chemotherapy has taken affect?

A) Losing her hair from chemotherapy did not effect her as much as
her friends had expected.

B) Losing her hair from chemotherapy did not affect her as much as
her friends had expected.

A) We cannot effect a new policy without the board of directors voting
on it first.

B) We cannot affect a new policy without the board of directors voting
on it first.

A) To have the most effect, you should know both your strengths as
well as your weaknesses.

B) To have the most affect, you should know both your strengths as
well as your weaknesses.

A) The movie "Winged Migration" had two affects on him: He became
an environmental advocate and a bird lover.

B) The movie "Winged Migration" had two effects on him: He became
an environmental advocate and a bird lover.

A) The net affect of blowing the whistle on her boss was that she was
eventually given his position.

B) The net effect of blowing the whistle on her boss was that she was
eventually given his position.

A) What was the effect of his promotion?

B) What was the affect of his promotion?


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: B The effect of the antibiotic on her infection was
surprising.
Explanation: Use effect whenever any of these words precede it: a, an, any,
the, take, into, no.

2.
Correct Answer: A I did not know that antibiotics could affect people so
quickly.
Explanation: Use the verb affect when you mean to influence rather than to
cause.

3.
Correct Answer: A Plastic surgery had an effect, not only on her
appearance, but on her self-esteem.

4.
Correct Answer: B If the chemotherapy has no effect, should she get
surgery for the tumor?

5.
Correct Answer: A When will we know if the chemotherapy has taken
effect?

6.
Correct Answer: B Losing her hair from chemotherapy did not affect her
as much as her friends had expected.
Explanation: Use the verb affect when you mean to influence rather than to
cause.

7.
Correct Answer: A We cannot effect a new policy without the board of
directors voting on it first.
Explanation: Use effect to mean bring about or cause.

8.
Correct Answer: A To have the most effect, you should know both your
strengths as well as your weaknesses.
the, take, into, no. These words may be separated from effect by an
adjective. In this sentence, the is separated from effect by the adjective
most.

9.
Correct Answer: B The movie "Winged Migration" had two effects on
him: He became an environmental advocate and a bird lover.
Explanation: Use the noun effects to mean results.

10.
Correct Answer: B The net effect of blowing the whistle on her boss was
that she was eventually given his position.
the, take, into, no. These words may be separated from effect by an
adjective. In this sentence, The is separated from effect by the adjective
net.

11.
Correct Answer: A What was the effect of his promotion?

Final Score: 0/11

Lay vs. Lie Quiz
22


A) I am dizzy and need to lay down.

B) I am dizzy and need to lie down.

A) When I got dizzy yesterday, I lay down.

B) When I got dizzy yesterday, I laid down.

A) My brother lies carpet for a living.

B) My brother lays carpet for a living.

A) Lie the carpet after painting the walls.

B) Lay the carpet after painting the walls.

A) We need to lay this baby down for a nap.

B) We need to lie this baby down for a nap.

A) We will know when we have laid this issue to rest when we no
longer fight about it.

B) We will know when we have lain this issue to rest when we no
longer fight about it.

A) The lions are laying in wait for their prey.

B) The lions are lying in wait for their prey.

A) The lions have lain in wait for their prey.

B) The lions have laid in wait for their prey.

A) I laid the blanket over her as she slept.

B) I lay the blanket over her as she slept.

A) I will lie my head on my pillow shortly.

B) I will lay my head on my pillow shortly.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: B I am dizzy and need to lie down.
Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline while lay means to
put or place (verb followed by an object).

2.
Correct Answer: A When I got dizzy yesterday, I lay down.
Explanation: In the past tense, lay means reclined while laid means put or
placed (verb followed by an object).

3.
Correct Answer: B My brother lays carpet for a living.
Explanation: In the present tense, lies means reclines and lays means puts
or places (verb followed by an object).

4.
Correct Answer: B Lay the carpet after painting the walls.
Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline and lay means to put
or place (verb followed by an object).

5.
Correct Answer: A We need to lay this baby down for a nap.
Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline and lay means to put
or place (verb followed by an object).

6.
Correct Answer: A We will know when we have laid this issue to rest
when we no longer fight about it.
Explanation: In the past tense, laid means put or placed (verb followed by
an object).

7.
Correct Answer: B The lions are lying in wait for their prey.
Explanation: In the present tense, lying means reclining and laying means
putting or placing (verb followed by an object).

8.
Correct Answer: A The lions have lain in wait for their prey.
Explanation: In the past tense, lain is used in the sense of reclined with a
participle (has, have). Laid means put or placed (verb followed by an
object).

9.
Correct Answer: A I laid the blanket over her as she slept.
Explanation: In the past tense, lay means reclined while laid means put or
placed (verb followed by an object).

10.
Correct Answer: B I will lay my head on my pillow shortly.
Explanation: In the present or future tense, lie means to recline and lay
means to put or place (verb followed by an object).

Final Score: 0/10

Advice vs. Advise Quiz
64


A) Adele is always happy to offer advice if you ask her for it.

B) Adele is always happy to offer advise if you ask her for it.

A) The lawyer adviced him to plead guilty.

B) The lawyer advised him to plead guilty.

A) If you want to go on the senior trip, I would strongly advise you to
start saving your money.

B) If you want to go on the senior trip, I would strongly advice you to
start saving your money.

A) Our new members are impressed with the level of advise they
received from the leadership group.

B) Our new members are impressed with the level of advice they
received from the leadership group.

A) Sara always takes my advice to heart.

B) Sara always takes my advise to heart.

A) I'd like to ask an engineer to advice us on the design.

B) I'd like to ask an engineer to advise us on the design.

A) We adviced the city council that the deadline was tentative and
might need to be extended.

B) We advised the city council that the deadline was tentative and
might need to be extended.

A) Lakeisha knows she can always go to her best friend for advise.

B) Lakeisha knows she can always go to her best friend for advice.

A) Don't give advice that you're not willing to follow yourself.

B) Don't give advise that you're not willing to follow yourself.

A) Randall has a bad habit of offering unsolicited advise.

B) Randall has a bad habit of offering unsolicited advice.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: A Adele is always happy to offer advice if you ask her
for it.
Explanation: Advice is a noun meaning recommendation.

2.
Correct Answer: B The lawyer advised him to plead guilty.
Explanation: Advise is a verb meaning the act of giving a recommendation.
In this sentence, advised is the past tense form of the verb.

3.
Correct Answer: A If you want to go on the senior trip, I would strongly
advise you to start saving your money.

4.
Correct Answer: B Our new members are impressed with the level of
advice they received from the leadership group.

5.
Correct Answer: A Sara always takes my advice to heart.

6.
Correct Answer: B I'd like to ask an engineer to advise us on the
design.

7.
Correct Answer: B We advised the city council that the deadline was
tentative and might need to be extended.
In this sentence, advised is the past tense form of the verb.

8.
Correct Answer: B Lakeisha knows she can always go to her best friend
for advice.

9.
Correct Answer: A Don't give advice that you're not willing to follow
yourself.

10.
Correct Answer: B Randall has a bad habit of offering unsolicited
advice.

Final Score: 0/10

Their vs. There vs. They're Quiz
67


A) According to an old legend, their is treasure buried on
that island.

B) According to an old legend, there is treasure buried on
that island.

C) According to an old legend, they're is treasure buried
on that island.

A) Juan and Pancho just called to let us know their
coming for dinner.

B) Juan and Pancho just called to let us know there
coming for dinner.

C) Juan and Pancho just called to let us know they're
coming for dinner.

A) There is a mouse in my closet!

B) Their is a mouse in my closet!

C) They're is a mouse in my closet!

A) I can't wait to see the looks on there faces when I tell
them the truth.

B) I can't wait to see the looks on their faces when I tell
them the truth.

C) I can't wait to see the looks on they're faces when I
tell them the truth.

A) I wonder if their planning to go shopping with us.

B) I wonder if there planning to go shopping with us.

C) I wonder if they're planning to go shopping with us.

A) The children went upstairs to play after clearing there
plates at dinner.

B) The children went upstairs to play after clearing
they're plates at dinner.

C) The children went upstairs to play after clearing their
plates at dinner.

A) It's they're decision, so I'll just stay out of it.

B) It's their decision, so I'll just stay out of it.

C) It's there decision, so I'll just stay out of it.

A) I don't know what they're doing to cause all that noise,
but it's giving me a headache!

B) I don't know what there doing to cause all that noise,

C) I don't know what their doing to cause all that noise,

A) The kids haven't called yet; I'm concerned about there
being out so late at night.

B) The kids haven't called yet; I'm concerned about
they're being out so late at night.

C) The kids haven't called yet; I'm concerned about their
being out so late at night.

A) I believe Wynona left her glasses over they're.

B) I believe Wynona left her glasses over there.

C) I believe Wynona left her glasses over their.

Material created by Jane Straus and Co. Copyright by Jane
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area may be reproduced and distributed. However, you may
not alter the material or remove this notice of copyright.

Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: B We have hired attorneys to help us with our divorce.

2.
Correct Answer: A Our boat capsized in the storm so we needed
rescuing.

3.
Correct Answer: A The boat leaked because the crew did not maintain it.

4.
Correct Answer: B We divorced. OR We ended our marriage.

5.
Correct Answer: A The girl threw the pie and it hit the boy's face.

6.
Correct Answer: A Someone will most likely want to claim ownership of
the new sports car.

7.
Correct Answer: B Let's explore the many worthwhile ideas at this
meeting.

8.
Correct Answer: B Martin could not find time to walk the dogs, work,
and shop.

9.
Correct Answer: A Jordan believed that Serena had embarrassed him
intentionally.

10.
Correct Answer: B It is a shame that so many holidays go uncelebrated.
OR I wish we celebrated more holidays.

11.
Correct Answer: B The bar of soap slipped from her hands while she
sang in the shower.

12.
Correct Answer: A When we looked back, we saw the dog following us.

13.
Correct Answer: B He was carried out on a stretcher.

14.
Correct Answer: A He grabbed the papers as they flew out the window.

15.
Correct Answer: A As I stepped off the bus, I saw the shopping center
just ahead.

Final Score: 0/15

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: B According to an old legend, there is treasure buried
on that island.
Explanation: The word their is a possessive pronoun and they're is a
contraction for they are. Use the word there when these first two definitions
don't apply.

2.
Correct Answer: C Juan and Pancho just called to let us know they're
coming for dinner.
don't apply.

3.
Correct Answer: A There is a mouse in my closet!
don't apply.

4.
Correct Answer: B I can't wait to see the looks on their faces when I tell
them the truth.
don't apply.

5.
Correct Answer: C I wonder if they're planning to go shopping with us.
don't apply.

6.
Correct Answer: C The children went upstairs to play after clearing their
plates at dinner.
don't apply.

7.
Correct Answer: B It's their decision, so I'll just stay out of it.
don't apply.

8.
Correct Answer: A I don't know what they're doing to cause all that
noise, but it's giving me a headache!
don't apply.

9.
Correct Answer: C The kids haven't called yet; I'm concerned about
their being out so late at night.
Explanation: Use the possessive case (their) in front of a gerund ("-ing"
word). They're is a contraction for they are and there generally indicates a
location.

10.
Correct Answer: B I believe Wynona left her glasses over there.
don't apply.

Final Score: 0/10

More Confusing Words and Homonyms - Quiz 1
70


A) Many people don't stop to consider how current events affect their
every day lives.

B) Many people don't stop to consider how current events affect their
everyday lives.

A) I hope the solar flair doesn't affect our computer equipment.

B) I hope the solar flare doesn't affect our computer equipment.

A) It's amazing that hangars can be built large enough to
accommodate today's gigantic airplanes.

B) It's amazing that hangers can be built large enough to
accommodate today's gigantic airplanes.

A) We'll need a forklift to place all those boxes on the palate.

B) We'll need a forklift to place all those boxes on the palette.

C) We'll need a forklift to place all those boxes on the pallet.

A) Would you like to have a sneak peak at the restaurant before it
opens?

B) Would you like to have a sneak peek at the restaurant before it
opens?

C) Would you like to have a sneak pique at the restaurant before it
opens?

A) Use the reigns to guide the horse along the path.

B) Use the rains to guide the horse along the path.

C) Use the reins to guide the horse along the path.

A) The company will have to raze adequate funds before it can move
forward with the project.

B) The company will have to raise adequate funds before it can move
forward with the project.

A) My grandmother taught me how to sow clothing when I was a little
girl.

B) My grandmother taught me how to so clothing when I was a little
girl.

C) My grandmother taught me how to sew clothing when I was a little
girl.

A) Have you ever watched someone shear a sheep?

B) Have you ever watched someone sheer a sheep?

A) I'd like to go to the state fair on Sundae.

B) I'd like to go to the state fair on Sunday.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: B Many people don't stop to consider how current
events affect their everyday lives.
Explanation: Use the one-word form everyday to mean ordinary. Every
day means each day.

2.
Correct Answer: B I hope the solar flare doesn't affect our computer
equipment.
Explanation: In this sentence, the word flare means eruption. The word
flair means style.

3.
Correct Answer: A It's amazing that hangars can be built large enough
to accommodate today's gigantic airplanes.
Explanation: Use the word hangars to mean shelters for airplanes.
Hangers are devices on which to hang garments in the closet.

4.
Correct Answer: C We'll need a forklift to place all those boxes on the
pallet.
Explanation: Use the word pallet to mean a low, portable platform. Palate
means the roof of the mouth, or, taste. A palette is a range of colors or a
board to hold and mix colors.

5.
Correct Answer: B Would you like to have a sneak peek at the
restaurant before it opens?
Explanation: Use the word peek to mean glance furtively. Peak is the top of
a mountain and pique is to wound someone's pride or to excite interest.

6.
Correct Answer: C Use the reins to guide the horse along the path.
Explanation: Use the word reins to mean harness. Rains are drops of water
falling from the sky and reigns are sovereign administrations.

7.
Correct Answer: B The company will have to raise adequate funds
before it can move forward with the project.
Explanation: In this sentence, the word raise means collect. Raze means
tear down completely.

8.
Correct Answer: C My grandmother taught me how to sew clothing
when I was a little girl.
Explanation: Use the word sew to mean stitch. So means in the manner
indicated and sow is to scatter or plant seed.

9.
Correct Answer: A Have you ever watched someone shear a sheep?
Explanation: In this sentence, the word shear means to cut hair. Sheer
means transparent.

10.
Correct Answer: B I'd like to go to the state fair on Sunday.
Explanation: Use the word Sunday to indicate a day of the week. Sundae is
ice cream with syrup.

Final Score: 0/10

More Confusing Words and Homonyms - Quiz 2
62


A) He used the information from several of Heidi's newsletters, but he
didn't sight his sources.

B) He used the information from several of Heidi's newsletters, but he
didn't site his sources.

C) He used the information from several of Heidi's newsletters, but he
didn't cite his sources.

A) She wasn't interested in being part of any of the clicks at school.

B) She wasn't interested in being part of any of the cliques at school.

A) We have different specialties, so our business services compliment
one another.

B) We have different specialties, so our business services complement
one another.

A) I'm planning to have the chocolate cake for dessert.

B) I'm planning to have the chocolate cake for desert.

A) Many countries use questionable techniques to elicit information
from their prisoners.

B) Many countries use questionable techniques to illicit information
from their prisoners.

A) Carlos can't wait to go to the fare this weekend.

B) Carlos can't wait to go to the fair this weekend.

A) We hired professionals to clean out our chimney flu.

B) We hired professionals to clean out our chimney flue.

A) After screaming at the concert, Kamilah's voice was horse.

B) After screaming at the concert, Kamilah's voice was hoarse.

A) The bolt of lightning struck the house and started a fire.

B) The bolt of lightening struck the house and started a fire.

A) These pants are loose, so I must have lost weight.

B) These pants are lose, so I must have lost weight.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: C He used the information from several of Heidi's
newsletters, but he didn't cite his sources.
Explanation: The word cite means to quote from. Sight relates to vision and
site is a location or place.

2.
Correct Answer: B She wasn't interested in being part of any of the
cliques at school.
Explanation: Use the word cliques to mean groups. Clicks are sounds.

3.
Correct Answer: B We have different specialties, so our business
services complement one another.
Explanation: Use the word complement to mean completing part of an
order. Compliment indicates praise.

4.
Correct Answer: A I'm planning to have the chocolate cake for dessert.
Explanation: Use the word dessert to mean a sugary treat. Desert is a
desolate area.

5.
Correct Answer: A Many countries use questionable techniques to elicit
information from their prisoners.
Explanation: Use the word elicit to mean extract or draw out. Illicit means
illegal.

6.
Correct Answer: B Carlos can't wait to go to the fair this weekend.
Explanation: Use the word fair to mean an exhibition. Fare is a payment for
travel.

7.
Correct Answer: B We hired professionals to clean out our chimney flue.
Explanation: Use the word flue to mean part of a chimney. Flew is the past
tense of fly and flu is a virus.

8.
Correct Answer: B After screaming at the concert, Kamilah's voice was
hoarse.
Explanation: Use the word hoarse to mean cracked voice. Horse is an
animal.

9.
Correct Answer: A The bolt of lightning struck the house and started a
fire.
Explanation: Use the word lightning to mean a brilliant electric spark in the
sky. Lightening is to make lighter.

10.
Correct Answer: A These pants are loose, so I must have lost weight.
Explanation: Use the word loose to mean the opposite of tight. Lose means
to misplace or the opposite of win.

Final Score: 0/10

Effective Writing Quiz
25

1. Choose the better sentence.

A) We are no longer able to reconcile; therefore, attorneys will be used
to effect the dissolution of our marriage.

B) We have hired attorneys to help us with our divorce.

A) Our boat capsized in the storm so we needed rescuing.

B) The weather had adverse impacts on our boat resulting in the
necessity to rescue us from the water.

A) The boat leaked because the crew did not maintain it.

B) The leak in the bottom of the boat was due to poor maintenance on
the part of the crew.

A) Our marriage ended in a divorce.

B) We divorced.

A) The girl threw the pie and it hit the boy's face.

B) The boy was struck in the face by the pie as it flew from the girl's
hand.

A) Someone will most likely want to claim ownership of the new sports
car.

B) It was not likely that no one would want to claim ownership of the
new sports car.

A) There are many ideas that are worth exploring by us at this meeting.

B) Let's explore the many worthwhile ideas at this meeting.

A) Martin could not find time to go for walks with the dogs, work, and
shop.

B) Martin could not find time to walk the dogs, work, and shop.

A) Jordan believed that Serena had embarrassed him intentionally.

B) Jordan did not believe that Serena had embarrassed him
unintentionally.

A) It is a shame that there are so many holidays that go uncelebrated.

B) It is a shame that so many holidays go uncelebrated.

A) While singing in the shower, the bar of soap slipped from her hands.

B) The bar of soap slipped from her hands while she sang in the
shower.

A) When we looked back, we saw the dog following us.

B) Looking back, the dog was following us.

A) Lying on a stretcher, they carried him out.

B) He was carried out on a stretcher.

A) He grabbed the papers as they flew out the window.

B) Flying out the window, he grabbed the papers.

A) As I stepped off the bus, I saw the shopping center just ahead.

B) Stepping off the bus, the shopping center was just ahead.


Grade Quiz

Grammar Mastery Test
59


A) Some of the dessert was left by the end of the birthday party.

B) Some of the dessert were left by the end of the birthday party.

C) Some of the desserts was left by the end of the birthday party.

D) Some desserts was left by the end of the birthday party.

A) The papa bear thought that all of his porridge were missing.

B) The papa bear thought that none of his porridge were missing.

C) The papa bear thought that some of his porridge were missing.

D) The papa bear thought that some of his porridge was missing.

A) Your brilliant excuses almost makes up for your tardiness.

B) Your brilliant excuses almost make up for your tardiness.

C) Your brilliant excuses makes up for your tardiness.

D) Your brilliant excuses will makes up for your tardiness.

A) Neither Jackson nor Jenna have played hooky.

B) Neither Jackson nor Jenna are playing hooky.

C) Neither Jackson nor Jenna is playing hooky.

D) Neither Jackson nor Jenna were playing hooky.

A) Neither Jackson nor I am playing hooky.

B) Neither Jackson nor I is playing hooky.

C) Neither Jackson nor I are playing hooky.

D) Neither Jackson nor I were playing hooky.

A) Either of us were capable of winning.

B) Either of us are capable of winning.

C) Either of us have been capable of winning.

D) Either of us is capable of winning.

A) All of the class is willing to take part in the prank.

B) All of the classes is willing to take part in the prank.

C) All of the class are willing to take part in the prank.

D) All of the classes has been willing to take part in the prank.

A) One-third of the eligible population tend not to vote in national
elections.

B) One-third of the eligible population are tending not to vote in
national elections.

C) One-third of the eligible population have tended not to vote in
national elections.

D) One-third of the eligible population tends not to vote in national
elections.

A) One-third of the voters tend not to cast their ballots in national
elections.

B) One-third of the voters tends not to cast their ballots in national
elections.

C) One-third of the voters tends not to cast its ballots in national
elections.

D) One-third of the voters tends not to cast its ballot in national
elections.

A) Here is the paper clips you requested.

B) Here's the paper clips you requested.

C) Here are the paper clips you requested.

D) Here are the box of paper clips you requested.

A) She is one of those doctors that make house calls.

B) She is one of those doctors who make house calls.

C) She is one of those doctors who makes house calls.

D) She is one of those doctors that makes house calls.

A) Dr. Cresta is one of those professors who does whatever it takes to
get his point across to his students.

B) Dr. Cresta is one of those professors who does whatever it takes to
get their point across to their students.

C) Dr. Cresta is a professor who do whatever it takes to get his point
across to his students.

D) Dr. Cresta is one of those professors who do whatever it takes to get
their point across to their students.

A) She is the only professor who does what it takes to help her
students learn joyfully.

B) She is the only professor who do what it takes to help her students
learn joyfully.

C) She is a professor who do what it takes to help her students learn
joyfully.

D) She is one of many professors who does what it takes to help her
students learn joyfully.

A) She and he are always fighting.

B) She and him are always fighting.

C) Her and him are always fighting.

D) Him and her are always fighting.

A) When Toni and him come over, we always have a great time.

B) When Toni and he come over, we always have a great time.

C) When him and Toni come over, we always have a great time.

D) When him and Toni come over, we have a great time.

A) It is us who must decide whether to tax ourselves or cut spending.

B) It is us whom must decide whether to tax ourselves or cut spending.

C) It is we who must decide whether to tax ourselves or cut spending.

D) It is we whom must decide whether to tax ourselves or cut
spending.

A) Between you and me, this class is a joke.

B) Between you and I, this class is a joke.

C) Just between you and I, this class is a joke.

D) Between you and she, this class is a joke.

A) Whom do you think you are to give me advice about dating?

B) Who do you think you are to give me advice about dating?

C) Whom do you think you are to give her advice about dating?

D) Who do you think you are to give he advice about dating?

A) Who makes up these English rules anyway?

B) Whom makes up these English rules anyway?

C) Whomever makes up these English rules anyway?

D) Whom make up these English rules anyway?

A) Whom do you think should win?

B) Whomever do you think should win?

C) Whoever do you think should win?

D) Who do you think should win?

A) Whom are you voting for?

B) Who are you voting for?

C) For who are you voting?

D) Whomever are you voting for?

A) Whomever has the keys gets to be in the driver's seat.

B) Whoever has the keys gets to be in the driver's seat.

C) Whoever has the keys get to be in the driver's seat.

D) Who has the keys gets to be in the driver's seat.

A) We are willing to work with whoever you recommend.

B) We are willing to work with who you recommend.

C) We are willing to work with whomever you recommend.

D) We are not willing to work with who you recommend.

A) The thoughts which Ted presented at the meeting were so
worthwhile.

B) The thoughts, which Ted presented at the meeting, were so
worthwhile.

C) The thoughts that Ted presented at the meeting were so worthwhile.

D) The thoughts, that Ted presented at the meeting, were so
worthwhile.

A) The thoughts that Ted presented, that were about shifting national
priorities, were well received.

B) The thoughts that Ted presented, were well received.

C) The thoughts, that Ted presented, were well received.

D) The thoughts that Ted presented, which were about shifting national
priorities, were well received.

A) When you do a job so good, you can expect a raise.

B) When you do a job so well, you can expect a raise.

C) When you do a well job, you can expect a raise.

A) Bonnie was a good sport about losing the race.

B) Bonnie was a well sport about losing the race.

C) When Bonnie lost the race, she took it good.

D) When Bonnie lost the race, she was a well sport.

A) Harry smells well. What is the aftershave he is wearing?

B) Harry smells good for having just had his nose broken.

C) Harry smells good. What is the aftershave he is wearing?

D) Harry smells well. What deodorant is he using?

A) Lisa did so well on the test that she was allowed to accelerate to the
next level.

B) Lisa did so well on the test that she were allowed to accelerate to
the next level.

C) Lisa did so good on the test that she was allowed to accelerate to
the next level.

D) Lisa did so good on the test that she accelerated to the next level.

A) Our puppy is definitely more sweeter than her brother.

B) Our puppy is definitely more sweeter than her brother.

C) Our puppy is definitely sweeter than her brother.

D) Our puppy is definitely more sweeter than her brother is.

A) With triplets, I have to be careful to divide everything equally among
them or they will fight.

B) With triplets, I have to be careful to divide everything equally
between them or they will fight.

C) With triplets, I have to be careful to divide everything equally or
they fights.

D) With triplets, I have to divide everything equally or they fights hard.
A) Karen should of known that her cheap umbrella would break in the
storm.

B) Karen should of known that her cheap umbrella might break in the
storm.

C) Karen should have known that her cheap umbrella would break in
the storm.

D) Karen shoulda known that her cheap umbrella would break in the
storm.

A) Sometimes the affects of our generosity may seem minimal, but our
good intentions do make a difference.

B) Sometimes our generosity effects others minimally, but our good
intentions do make a difference.

C) Sometimes the effects of our generosity may seem minimal, but our
good intentions do make a difference.

D) Sometimes the effects of our generosity may seem minimal, but our
good intentions do effect others.

A) Ben thought he had lain my jacket on that bench.

B) Ben thought he had laid my jacket on that bench.

C) Ben thought he lied my jacket on that bench.

D) Ben thought he layed my jacket on that bench.

A) Our company policy will not allow me to accept a gift worth more
than $50.

B) Our company policy will not allow me to except a gift worth more
than $50.

A) They thought we were late, but my wife and I were all ready at the
restaurant.

B) They thought we were late, but my wife and I were already at the
restaurant.

A) Irregardless of who was there first, we were all very hungry and
ready to eat.

B) Regardless of who was there first, we were all very hungry and
ready to eat.

A) We could hardly believe that the Giants could loose the game by
that many runs.

B) We could hardly believe that the Giants could lose the game by that
many runs.

A) Isn't it amazing how long that mime can remain completely
stationary?

B) Isn't it amazing how long that mime can remain completely
stationery?

A) The department's principal concern is the safety of all employees.

B) The department's principle concern is the safety of all employees.

A) How did they manage to serve cold ice cream in the middle of the
vast desert?

B) How did they manage to serve cold ice cream in the middle of the
vast dessert?

A) The boss complemented Ari on his excellent presentation.

B) The boss complimented Ari on his excellent presentation.

A) The judge did not believe any of their stories.

B) The judge did not believe any of there stories.

C) The judge did not believe any of they're stories.

A) Ilana said she wanted to become a FBI agent when she grew up.

B) Ilana said she wanted to become an FBI agent when she grew up.

A) The meeting attendees were to express a preference among five
cleanup plans.

B) The meeting attendees were to express a preference between five
cleanup plans.

A) To be a good billiards player, you've got to think farther ahead than
just the next shot.

B) To be a good billiards player, you've got to think further ahead than
just the next shot.

A) Paul should have known better than to act like that.

B) Paul should of known better than to act like that.

A) The golf course at the resort is lovely, but I prefer it's swimming
pool.
B) The golf course at the resort is lovely, but I prefer its swimming
pool.

A) I paid the cab fair and Alejandro paid for dinner.

B) I paid the cab fare and Alejandro paid for dinner.

A) Marta completed five fewer problems than I did in the same amount
of time.

B) Marta completed five less problems than I did in the same amount
of time.


Grade Quiz

Quiz Results
1.
Correct Answer: A Some of the dessert was left by the end of the
birthday party.
Explanation: "Some" is a portion word that is singular or plural depending on
the object of the preposition. In this sentence, "dessert," which is singular, is
the object of the preposition. So use the singular verb "was."

2.
Correct Answer: D The papa bear thought that some of his porridge was
missing.
Explanation: "Some," "all," and "none" are portion words that require
looking at the object of the preposition to decide whether to use a singular
or plural verb. The object of the preposition is "porridge," which is singular,
so use the singular verb "was."

3.
Correct Answer: B Your brilliant excuses almost make up for your
tardiness.
Explanation: Since "excuses" is the plural subject, use the plural verb. "Make
up" is plural because you would say, "They make up," not "They makes up."

4.
Correct Answer: C Neither Jackson nor Jenna is playing hooky.
Explanation: When "neither/nor" connects two singular subjects, use a
singular verb.

5.
Correct Answer: A Neither Jackson nor I am playing hooky.
Explanation: When "neither/nor" connects two singular subjects and the
second one is "I," use "am."

6.
Correct Answer: D Either of us is capable of winning.
Explanation: "Either" is the subject and is singular so requires the singular
verb "is."

7.
Correct Answer: A All of the class is willing to take part in the prank.
Explanation: "All" is a portion word so look at the object of the preposition,
"class," which is singular and therefore requires a singular verb.

8.
Correct Answer: D One-third of the eligible population tends not to vote
in national elections.
Explanation: To decide whether "one-third," the subject, is singular or plural,
look at the object of the preposition, which is "population." Since
"population" is singular, use the singular verb "tends."

9.
Correct Answer: A One-third of the voters tend not to cast their ballots
in national elections.
Explanation: "One-third" becomes plural because of the object of the
preposition "voters." So use the plural verb "tend."

10.
Correct Answer: C Here are the paper clips you requested.
Explanation: "Here" and "there" are not subjects so look after the verb for
the subject. "Paper clips" is the plural subject so use the plural verb "are."

11.
Correct Answer: B She is one of those doctors who make house calls.
Explanation: When "who" is followed by a verb in the middle of the
sentence, look right in front of "who" to decide if the verb following will be
singular or plural. "Doctors," not "she" indicates that the plural verb "make"
should be used.

12.
Correct Answer: D Dr. Cresta is one of those professors who do
whatever it takes to get their point across to their students.
Explanation: When "who" is followed by a verb in the middle of a sentence,
look directly in front of "who" to decide whether to use a singular or plural
verb after it. "Professors," not "Dr. Cresta," indicates using the plural verb
"do."

13.
Correct Answer: A She is the only professor who does what it takes to
help her students learn joyfully.
Explanation: Look at "professor" to see that the verb following "who" should
be singular.

14.
Correct Answer: A She and he are always fighting.
Explanation: We need subject pronouns. "She" and "he" are both subject
pronouns.

15.
Correct Answer: B When Toni and he come over, we always have a
great time.
Explanation: We need a subject pronoun here so use "he."

16.
Correct Answer: C It is we who must decide whether to tax ourselves
or cut spending.
Explanation: After the "to be" verb "is," use the subject pronoun "we" to
rename the subject "it." Also, use "who" as the subject of "must decide"
because you would say "He must decide," not "Him must decide."

17.
Correct Answer: A Between you and me, this class is a joke.
Explanation: "Between" is a preposition so the pronouns that follow are
objects of the preposition. "Me" is an object case pronoun.

18.
Correct Answer: B Who do you think you are to give me advice about
dating?
Explanation: he = who/ him = whom
"Do you think you are he" would be correct because we follow "to be" verbs
such as "are" with subject pronouns like "he." "Me" is the indirect object so
we use an object pronoun.

19.
Correct Answer: A Who makes up these English rules anyway?
Explanation: who = he
We would say, "He makes up these English rules..."

20.
Correct Answer: D Who do you think should win?
We would say, "Do you think he should win?"

21.
Correct Answer: A Whom are you voting for?
We would say, "Are you voting for him?" You may end a sentence with a
preposition. Just don't end sentences with extra prepositions.

22.
Correct Answer: B Whoever has the keys gets to be in the driver's seat.
Explanation: Use "whoever" or "whomever" when "who" or "whom" can be
used in two clauses. If the word is used as a subject, use "whoever."
We could say, "He has the keys" and "He gets to be in the driver's seat."

23.
Correct Answer: C We are willing to work with whomever you
recommend.
Explanation: Use "whoever" or "whomever" when "who" or "whom" can be
used in two clauses. If the word is used as a subject, use "whoever." If it is
used as an object, use "whomever."
We would say, "We are willing to work with him" and "You recommend him."

24.
Correct Answer: C The thoughts that Ted presented at the meeting
were so worthwhile.
Explanation: When the interrupting clause is essential, use "that," not
"which." Do not use commas around essential clauses.

25.
Correct Answer: D The thoughts that Ted presented, which were about
shifting national priorities, were well received.
Explanation: When a previous clause presents essential information and the
next clause presents nonessential information, use "which" for the
nonessential clause and surround it with commas.

26.
Correct Answer: B When you do a job so well, you can expect a raise.
Explanation: "Good" is an adjective describing nouns and pronouns. "Well" is
an adverb answering "how" or used for health.

27.
Correct Answer: A Bonnie was a good sport about losing the race.
Explanation: "Good" is an adjective describing the noun "sport."

28.
Correct Answer: C Harry smells good. What is the aftershave he is
wearing?
Explanation: Harry is not actively smelling with a nose here so use the
adjective "good" to describe his scent.

29.
Correct Answer: A Lisa did so well on the test that she was allowed to
accelerate to the next level.
Explanation: "Well" is an adverb here describing how Lisa did. Use "was,"
not "were" because "she" is singular.

30.
Correct Answer: C Our puppy is definitely sweeter than her brother.
Explanation: Never use "more" or "less" with an "-er" modifier.

31.
Correct Answer: A With triplets, I have to be careful to divide everything
equally among them or they will fight.
Explanation: "Among" is used for three or more. Use "will fight," not "fights"
for future tense.

32.
Correct Answer: C Karen should have known that her cheap umbrella
would break in the storm.
Explanation: Never use "of" when you mean "have."

33.
Correct Answer: C Sometimes the effects of our generosity may seem
minimal, but our good intentions do make a difference.
Explanation: Use "effects" when you mean "results."

34.
Correct Answer: B Ben thought he had laid my jacket on that bench.
Explanation: "Had laid" is used for the past perfect tense with an object such
as "jacket."

35.
Correct Answer: A Our company policy will not allow me to accept a gift
worth more than $50.
Explanation: "Accept" means "to receive."

36.
Correct Answer: B They thought we were late, but my wife and I were
already at the restaurant.
Explanation: "Already" refers to time. "All ready" means "all of us/them
ready."

37.
Correct Answer: B Regardless of who was there first, we were all very
hungry and ready to eat.
Explanation: There is no such word as "irregardless."

38.
Correct Answer: B We could hardly believe that the Giants could lose
the game by that many runs.
Explanation: "Lose" refers to "loss." "Loose" means "not tight."

39.
Correct Answer: A Isn't it amazing how long that mime can remain
completely stationary?
Explanation: The "-ary" form means "immobile." The "-ery" form refers to
paper.

40.
Correct Answer: A The department's principal concern is the safety of
all employees.
Explanation: "Principal" means "chief, of first importance." "Principle" means
"fundamental belief."

41.
Correct Answer: A How did they manage to serve cold ice cream in the
middle of the vast desert?
Explanation: Here is a memory device for "dessert": The double "s" is like
extra sugar.

42.
Correct Answer: B The boss complimented Ari on his excellent
presentation.
Explanation: "Compliment" means "to praise" while "complement" means
"the completing part."

43.
Correct Answer: A The judge did not believe any of their stories.
Explanation: "Their" is the possessive pronoun. "They're" is a contraction for
"they are." "There" answers where.

44.
Correct Answer: B Ilana said she wanted to become an FBI agent when
she grew up.
Explanation: Use "an" when the pronunciation of the next word or acronym
begins with a vowel sound. You would pronounce FBI, "ef be eye," so you
are beginning with the "eh" sound.

45.
Correct Answer: A The meeting attendees were to express a preference
among five cleanup plans.
Explanation: With three or more, use "among," not "between."

46.
Correct Answer: B To be a good billiards player, you've got to think
further ahead than just the next shot.
Explanation: Use "further" when you are not referring to physical distance.
For physical distance, you may use "farther" or "further."

47.
Correct Answer: A Paul should have known better than to act like that.
Explanation: Do not use "of" when you mean "have."

48.
Correct Answer: B The golf course at the resort is lovely, but I prefer its
swimming pool.
Explanation: Use "its" as the possessive pronoun. "It's" is a contraction for
"it is." "Its'" doesn't exist.

49.
Correct Answer: B I paid the cab fare and Alejandro paid for dinner.
Explanation: "Fare" means "expense" or "payment."

50.
Correct Answer: A Marta completed five fewer problems than I did in
the same amount of time.
Explanation: When something is countable, use "fewer."

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GRAMMAR RULES

Finding Subjects and Verbs

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