SAT English Practice Question

The use of commas in a sentence can be tricky. They can indicate a pause in the flow of thought, separate items in a list, or set off a nonessential phrase. In general, commas should be used sparingly, but they can be very effective when used correctly. For example, if a writer wanted to indicate a pause in the flow of thought after the phrase “in general,” they could use a comma. The writer could also use a comma to set off the phrase "but they can be very effective when used correctly."

1. A.In general, commas should be used sparingly, but they can be very effective when used correctly.
2. B.In general commas should be used sparingly but they can be very effective when used correctly.
3. C.In general, commas should be used sparingly, but they can be very effective, when used correctly.
4. D.In general commas should be used sparingly, but they can be very effective when used correctly.