Syntax Introduction

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Syntax may sound like a diabolical super-villain sent from the future to destroy all mankind, but it actually refers to the rules that we use to create vibrant, concise, easy-to-understand sentences.

Close enough.

We know what you're thinking. "Rules? Ha! I don't follow the rules." We appreciate your renegade spirit, Shmooper. We really do. But understanding syntax is what lets you make meaningful sentences, convey ideas, and achieve your purpose as a writer extraordinaire.

So why not rebel against confusing sentences instead? You'll be armed with the knowledge of modifiers, parallelism, active voice vs. passive voice, wordiness, idioms, and point-of-view… and maybe a really cool outfit.

Quiz Yourself on Syntax

1/5

Choose the option that would most improve the following statement.


We have many tasks to complete if we are to be ready for this carnival on time. Barnum, please go ahead and start spinning the cotton candy. Bailey, take the cats out on their afternoon walk, but be careful not to upset Lucy the Lioness. She's been acting up lately and swatting at her tamer.


(A) Plug in the word going after we are.
(B) Delete the words go ahead and.
(C) Substitute out for up in the last sentence.
(D) None of the above.

Which of these sentences contains faulty parallelism?

I. The city is currently hiring for many positions, including librarian, city planner, engineer, and graphic design.

II. If you'd like to apply, go to our website, click the "careers" link, and download an application.

III. You'll be required to input your date of birth, social security number, and list the instances in which you have ever been more than two minutes and 35 seconds late for work.

(A) I
(B) II
(C) II and III
(D) I and III

Which sentence forgot to pack a vital element before it left for the Bahamas?

Sitting in the sand, we ordered strawberry slushies until our tongues were as red as our sunburns.
(B) Riding the catamaran, the couple got seasick and had to spend most of the trip bent over the back of the boat.
(C) Taking in the beautiful view, the tropical sunset was a mix of yellow, purple, hot pink, and lime green.
(D) Learning how to surf for the first time, my uncoordinated father looked more awkward than a baby giraffe.

Which of these sentences is in the passive voice?

I. The field mice multiplied rapidly when the farmer left the door to his grain silo open.

II. There were so many that the local supply store ran out of mousetraps.

III. The townspeople decided to fine the farmer and forced all farmers in the area to install automatically shutting doors on their grain silos.

(A) I
(B) I and II
(C) II and III
(D) None

Your teacher returns your paper on A Christmas Carol with "Don't modify absolutes!" written at the top. Which sentence is she referring to?

I. Scrooge was the inspiration for Dr. Seuss' Grinch.

II. Marley was deader than a doornail.

III. The Christmas Carol teaches us an extremely excellent lesson about the true meaning of Christmas

IV. The Ghost of Christmas Past gave me nightmares.

(A) I
(B) II, IV
(C) III
(D) II, III

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