Fragments SAT Prep

But the SAT! A fragment is an incomplete sentence.

Let’s get more technical 1. an “independent” clause is a complete idea that can stand on its own as a sentence. A “dependent” clause is an idea that cannot stand on its own, and must be attached to an independent clause to survive. 2. Every independent clause has a subject. It will always be either a: A) Noun B) Pronoun C) Gerund (verbs that become nouns. EX: Running is fun) Every independent clause MUST have a subject– no exceptions. The subject is the focus of the clause, standing in the spotlight of the sentence.

Let’s get more technical 3. Every independent clause has a main verb. This can be either: a)Something the subject does (I jump– it’s what “I” the subject, “do” main verb) b)A “to be” word that tells what the subject is or is being (I am tired– I am, main verb) Verbs that follow option B will all be forms of the word “to be” such as the words in italics below. She is, she was, she will be, she has been I am, I was, I will be, I have been They are, they were, they will be, they have been

Let’s get more technical 4. Every independent clause expresses a complete idea that can stand on its own. “I am happy.” can stand on its own, but “because I am happy” cannot stand on its own.

That’s It! Note: There isn’t anything wrong with a dependant clause, which will have a subject and a main verb but can’t quite stand on its own, but without a string independent clause to properly attach to, a dependent clause cannot stand alone and is incorrect. Dependent clauses are frequently used to add additional details or explanations. The most important thing to learn, is to differentiate between dependant and independent clauses The other important thing is to do is get rid of extra details in the sentence that will try to distract you

Let’s try it out! The brown bear jumped from tree to tree. But the SAT is fun. The ACT is boring, but the SAT is fun! The brown bear, which is known for eating various foods left behind by picnickers, who visit national parks on the weekends.

SAT Sample The “dessert rally,” an endurance race by dune buggies across hostile terrain, that only the fiercest competition qualify for. A. that only the fiercest competition qualify for B. which only the fiercest competitors can qualify for. C. And only the fiercest competitors can qualify for it. D. is a contest that only the fiercest competitors can qualify for. E. is a contest that only can be qualified for by the fiercest competitors.

Quick Reference Every sentence needs at least one independent clause. An independent clause needs three things: a subject, a main verb and a complete thought. Dependant causes have a subject and a verb but not a complete thought; they must attach to independent clauses to survive. Getting rid of extra details is the number one way to simplify the sentences and expose hidden errors Eliminating extra details helps with every topic on every question, not just this one.