choose the sentence that demonstrates correct use of the semicolon

ATI TEAS 7

Practice English TEAS TEST

1. Choose the sentence that demonstrates correct use of the semicolon.

A. I have a test tomorrow; I need to study.
B. I have a test; tomorrow I need to study.
C. I have a test tomorrow.
D. I have a test tomorrow; and I need to study.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct use of a semicolon is demonstrated in sentence A: 'I have a test tomorrow; I need to study.' Semicolons are used to connect closely related independent clauses. In this sentence, the semicolon correctly separates the two independent clauses 'I have a test tomorrow' and 'I need to study.' Choice B is incorrect because it separates the clauses improperly by using the semicolon after 'test' instead of after 'tomorrow.' Choice C is incorrect as it lacks a second independent clause to be connected using a semicolon. Choice D is incorrect as it inappropriately adds 'and' after the semicolon, which disrupts the correct use of the punctuation mark to link independent clauses.

2. Joann has brainstormed, created an outline, and completed research for a major term paper. Which of the following is the next step she should complete in the writing process?

A. Editing
B. Publishing
C. Proofreading
D. Drafting

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After completing research and outlining, the next logical step in the writing process is drafting. Drafting involves putting together the first version of the paper based on the outline and research. This step focuses on organizing thoughts, expanding ideas, and structuring the content. Editing (choice A) occurs after drafting and involves revising and refining the content for clarity, coherence, and correctness. Publishing (choice B) is the final step where the finished work is made available to the audience. Proofreading (choice C) typically follows editing and focuses on correcting spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

3. If all of the following sentences appeared in the same paragraph, which sentence would be irrelevant?

A. I had been doing yoga at least three times a week for the past year.
B. At first, I walked and ran, though really it was more walking than running.
C. I had never run a 5k race before, but I decided to try and gave myself six weeks to train for it.
D. Each day I was able to run a bit further and a bit faster.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The sentence about doing yoga is irrelevant to the topic of training for a 5k race. The focus of the paragraph is on the process of preparing for the race through running and training, making sentence A unrelated as it discusses a different physical activity.

4. Which of the following defines the word 'unilateral'?

A. Performed by one person
B. Performed by many people
C. Performed with precision
D. Performed according to rules

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Performed by one person.' 'Unilateral' means something done by one person or group without the agreement of another. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests the opposite of what 'unilateral' means. Choice C is incorrect as it does not capture the essence of 'unilateral.' Choice D is incorrect as it is not directly related to the definition of 'unilateral.'

5. Which of the following types of language is acceptable in a research paper?

A. Colloquialisms
B. Contractions
C. Relative pronouns
D. Second-person point of view

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Relative pronouns are acceptable in a research paper for connecting clauses. Colloquialisms (choice A) are informal expressions that are not suitable for academic writing. Contractions (choice B) are considered too casual for a research paper. The second-person point of view (choice D) should be avoided in research papers as it can make the writing less objective and scholarly.