Vocabulary Workshop Level C Review Units 7-9 Answers

Mastering the Comma: Linking Dependent and Independent Clauses for the Digital SAT

Introduction

Knowing when to use a comma—and when not to—is a crucial grammar skill for the Digital SAT Writing and Language section. Many students struggle to distinguish between dependent and independent clauses, leading to punctuation errors such as fragments, run-ons, or comma splices. This guide explains how to correctly link clauses and provides practice questions that reflect the variety of punctuation patterns tested on the SAT.

Understanding Clauses

A dependent clause begins with a subordinating conjunction such as while, although, because, since, if, when, or after and cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. An independent clause expresses a complete thought and can stand alone.

Example: Although the data were incomplete, the researchers continued their analysis.

Here, the dependent clause (Although the data were incomplete) is followed by a comma before the independent clause (the researchers continued their analysis).

When to Use a Comma

• Use a comma when a sentence begins with a dependent clause.
• Do not use a comma when the dependent clause follows the independent clause.
• Do not use a semicolon unless both clauses are independent.

Digital SAT-Style Practice Questions

Question 1

Although the experiment failed ______ the researchers gained valuable insights for future studies.

A. ,
B. ;
C. .
D. (no punctuation)

Correct Answer: A
Explanation: The sentence begins with a dependent clause introduced by although, so a comma is needed before the independent clause.

Question 2

The students stayed late in the lab ______ because they wanted to finish the project before the deadline.

A. ,
B. ;
C. :
D. (no punctuation)

Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The dependent clause because they wanted to finish the project follows the independent clause, so no comma is needed.

Question 3

While the chef prepared the meal ______ the guests enjoyed appetizers in the lounge.

A. ,
B. ;
C. .
D. (no punctuation)

Correct Answer: A
Explanation: The dependent clause While the chef prepared the meal introduces the sentence, so a comma is required before the independent clause.

Question 4

The concert was canceled ______ because the weather conditions were too dangerous for travel.

A. ,
B. ;
C. :
D. (no punctuation)

Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The dependent clause follows the independent clause, so no comma is needed. Adding one would incorrectly separate the two parts.

Question 5

Because the museum was closed ______ we decided to visit the art gallery instead.

A. ,
B. ;
C. .
D. (no punctuation)

Correct Answer: A
Explanation: The dependent clause Because the museum was closed comes first, so a comma is needed before the independent clause.

Question 6

The team celebrated their victory ______ because they had worked hard all season to earn it.

A. ,
B. ;
C. :
D. (no punctuation)

Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The independent clause comes first, followed by a dependent clause beginning with because. No comma is needed in this structure.

Key Takeaway

When a sentence begins with a dependent clause, use a comma before the independent clause. When the dependent clause comes after the independent clause, omit the comma. Recognizing this pattern helps avoid punctuation errors and ensures clarity—an essential skill for success on the Digital SAT.