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

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How would you correct this sentence?

Rhoda's a character actor, so she prefers to be the best friend, bit player, and provide comic relief.

(A) Change provide comic relief to comic relief.
(B) Omit the comma after actor.
(C) Change Rhoda's to Rhodas'
(D) Both A and B

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.

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.

Annalise wants to dye her hair red, so she asks her sister to help her use an at-home dye kit. Which of the sentences describing the outcome contains a misplaced modifier?

I. Annalise went to the professional stylist with an at-home dye job gone bad.

II. Vivid Expressions had turned her hair a way-too-vivid shade of purple.

III. The stylist told her to carefully read the instructions that were enclosed in the box with her sister before attempting to dye her hair again.

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

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