Punctuation

Description: English Common Errors Punctuation Tests - Identify English Grammar Errors By Online Test and Prepare for English in MBA, CAT, GMAT, TOEFL, SAT and Other Placement and SSC, CDS, Bank PO, Railways Jobs Exams
Number of Questions: 72
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Tags: Common Errors Punctuation Grammar Error Grammatical Error Grammar Error Identification English Grammar MBA CAT GMAT SAT TOEFL Grammar MBA Entrance MCA Entrance English CDS SSC Insurance Exams Pharma English Error Correction Punctuation Letter E Reading Comprehension
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Directions:The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as:

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) I want a pen, a pencil and a rubber. (B) I want, a pen, a pencil and a rubber.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 No comma use required after 'I want'. Hence, option 1 is correct.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct. (B) If only B is correct. (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) If you keep calm, take your time, concentrate and then answer the questions, you are sure to succeed. (B) If, you keep calm, take your time, concentrate and then answer the questions, you are sure to succeed.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 There is no need to use comma after the conditional (if). Hence, option 1 is correct.

Directions: The following question consist of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) The Sun, the Moon, and the stars are all heavenly bodies. (B) The sun, the moon and the stars are all heavenly bodies.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Comma is necessary to separate the first two items, optional to separate the third one (with and). The use of common nouns (sun and moon) in capital letters is ungrammatical.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) She said I am going home. (B) She said, I am going home.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

This is a direct form of narration. The reported speech has to be separated by inverted commas () and we need to put a comma between the reporting verb and the reported speech. Furthermore, quotation marks (",") must be used to include the reported speech. Hence, option 4 is correct. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation. Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Good days are coming!, she said (B) Good days are coming, she said.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

This is direct form of narration. The reported speech has to be separated by inverted commas () and we need to put a comma between the reporting verb and the reported speech. There is no need for exclamation mark.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) In the winters, at this height, life becomes really tough and unbearable. (B) In the winters at this height, life becomes really tough and unbearable.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

There is a pause before 'at this height'. So, we need a comma. Hence, option 2 is correct.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) When the sun is shining, and the birds are singing, the world seems a happier place. (B) When the sun is shining and the birds are singing, the world seems a happier place.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The comma use before 'and' is redundant. Hence, option 2 is correct. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Of course, I am going to see him next week. (B) Of course I am going to see him next week.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 There is a pause (requiring comma) after 'of course'. hence, option 1 is correct.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) On the contrary, things proved to be really enjoyable. (B) On the contrary, things proved to be, really enjoyable.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Things proved to be really enjoyable is in continuous flow, without comma break. 

Directions: Select the correct option from the choices that can replace the words in bold italics so as to make the sentence most meaningful. Please note that more than one choice may fit in syntactically but select the choice that is in the context of the sentence.

His son’s bumptiousness often puts the father in an inextricable situation.

  1. rashness

  2. arrogance

  3. frowardness

  4. brusqueness

  5. audacity


Correct Option: B
Explanation:
  1. Rashness only shows lack of prudence and hastiness. This will not necessarily put the father in an 'inextricable' situation.
    1. The correct answer. Who is a country bum? The derelict bully. So, bumptious is an arrogant bully.
    2. Frowardness means an inclination to frown upon or find fault with everything. True, such a person is not generally liked, but it will not put the father in an inextricable situation.
    3. This is rough and abrupt in manner. True, such a person is not generally liked, but it will not put the father in an inextricable situation.
    4. 'Audacity' is not as negative as the context demands.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation. Mark your answer as

(A) He had been looking forward to his visit here, but unfortunately it did not materialise. (B) He had been looking forward, to his visit here, but unfortunately it did not materialise.

  1. If only A is correct

  2. If only B is correct

  3. If both A and B are correct

  4. If both A and B are wrong


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

'Looking forward to' does not need a break (comma) in between.  Hence, only A is correct.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Mount Everest the world s highest mountain, was first climbed in 1953. (B) Mount Everest, the world s highest mountain, was first climbed in 1953.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The adjunct 'the world's highest mountain' needs to be separated by a comma (before and after). Hence, option 2 is correct.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) You live in Mumbai, right? (B) You live in Mumbai right?

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The statement and the tag question need to be separated by a comma. Hence, option A is correct.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) The fire, although it had been burning for hours, did not do much damage. (B) The fire although it had been burning for hours did not do much damage.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

'Although it had been burning for hours' needs to be separated by a comma (before and after). Hence, option 1 is correct.

Directions: Each of the following questions consist of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Worn out by the long journey, the child soon fell asleep. (B) Worn out by the long journey, the child, soon fell asleep.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

"The child soon fell asleep" is in continued flow. Hence, no comma is required. Therefore, option 1 is correct.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) By the way, why don t you try? (B) By the way, why dont you try?

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Apostrophe needed for don't.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) The attempt unfortunately, did not succeed. (B) The attempt, unfortunately, did not succeed.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The adjunct 'unfortunately' needs to be separated by commas (before and after). 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Meena, who is a very popular actress, is appearing on the television today. (B) Meena who is a very popular actress, is appearing on the television today.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The adjunct  'who is very popular actress' needs to be separated by a comma. Hence, option 1 is correct.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) You went home, did nt you? (B) You went home did nt you?

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 The statement and the tag question need to be separated by a comma. Furthermore, 'did nt' is incorrect. The spelling is incorrect and there must be an apostrophe included - hence, 'didn't'. Therefore, both sentences are incorrect.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

It is quite an expensive watch, isn t it? It is quite an expensive watch isn t it?

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The statement and the tag question need to be separated by a comma for sentence B. For both sentences, 'isn t' must have an apostrophe 'isn't'. Hence, both are incorrect.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Friends, Romans and countrymen, lend me your ears. (B) Friends Romans and countrymen, lend me your ears.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 'Friends' and 'Romans' need to be separated by a comma. Comma use, before 'and' is optional. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Michael, get ready for the party. (B) Michael get ready for the party.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The name and the command need to be separated by a comma. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Every one, rich or poor, young or old, high or low wishes to be happy. (B) Every one, rich or poor, young or old, high or low, wishes to be happy.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 The three categories need to be separated by commas. The three categories, taken together, constitute an adjunct. So, there should be a comma before and after them. (Note that the sentence without the adjunct: 'Everyone wishes to be happy' is complete in itself.)

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) She is an American, he, an Indian. (B) She is an American he, an Indian.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 The sentence has two subjects, acting separately. Ideally there should be two subjects and two verbs. But, to avoid repetition, 'is' is omitted the second time. 'He an Indian' will not make sense. So, we need a comma after 'he' to indicate the missing verb and to represent the pause.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) It being hot, we decided to go out for the picnic. (B) It being, hot we decided to go out for the picnic.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 The pause is after the modifying clause 'it being hot'. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Walk fast; otherwise you will miss the train. (B) Walk fast otherwise; you will miss the train.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 The pause has to come before 'otherwise'.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) No, I cannot do that work. (B) No I cannot do, that work.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 There needs to be no break in I cannot do that work.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Yes, I am coming, please wait. (B) Yes, I am coming please wait.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 'I am coming' and 'please wait' are two separate clauses. We need a comma in between. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) I called again and again; yet no one answered. (B) I called again and again yet; no one answered.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 The pause comes before, not after, 'yet'.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Keats said : A thing of beauty is a joy for ever. (B) Keats said : A thing of beauty is joy for ever.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 'a joy. (=a matter of joy)

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) I am going to Delhi, he to Mumbai. (B) I am going to Delhi, he, to Mumbai.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 The sentence has two subjects, acting separately. Ideally there should be two subjects and two verbs. But, to avoid repetition, 'is going' is omitted the second time. 'He to Mumbai' will not make sense. So, we need a comma after 'he' to indicate the missing verb and to represent the pause.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation. Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Shakespeare says: Sweet are the uses of adversity. (B) Shakespeare says; sweet are the uses of adversity.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 This is direct form of narration. Either we can put the reported speech within quote marks, separated by commas, or we can put colon after the reporting verb and give the reported speech beginning with a capital letter. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) The following students won the prize: Kavita, Rajiv, Ashok, Rakesh. (B) The following students: won the prize, Kavita, Rajiv, Ashok, Rakesh.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 We only need to separate the list by colon. There need be no break within The following students won the prize.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) A mathematician should know all branches of Mathematics: Algebra, calculus, co-ordinate and solid geometry. (B) A mathematician should know: all branches of Mathematics: Algebra, calculus, co-ordinate and solid geometry.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 Name of the list - all branches of mathematics - need not be separated by colon. Only the items listed need to be so separated. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation. Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) I like him: he is so fascinating. (B) I like: him he is so fascinating.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 We need to separate the two clauses only by a semi-colon (not a colon).  I like him; he is so fascinating.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) I refused to go to pictures: I was too tired. (B) I refused: to go to pictures I was too tired.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 We need to separate the two clauses by a semi-colon (not a colon) I refused to go to pictures: I was too tired.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Do you know how to swim? (B) Do you know how to swim.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 A question must end with a question mark (?).

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Have you ever been to Mumbai, the commercial capital of India. (B) Have you ever been to Mumbai, the commercial capital of India?

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 A question must end with a question mark (?).

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) May God bless you with all the joys of life! (B) May God bless you! with all the joys of life.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 An optative sentence, a wish or prayer, must end with a sign of exclamation (!).

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Alas! I have lost the bet. (B) Alas I have lost the bet!

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The exclamation (the outcry) is 'alas', not the whole sentence.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Sir, Sir! he implored, Do not blame me. (B) Sir,! Sir! he implored, Do not blame me.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 The use of comma, after 'implored' is inapproriate. We need to use a semi-colon or a period (.). And if choose to use a semi-colon, 'do' should be in small case.Also, comma use after the first exclamation (Sir) is redundant. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) He said, Dalhousie is a beautiful hill station. (B) He said, Dalhousie is beautiful hill station.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Option A is correct as the the sentence must have the article 'a' before 'beautiful' (i.e. a beautiful hill station).

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Shakespeare says, This above all, be true to thyself. Then you will not be false to any man. (B) Shakespeare says, This above all; be true to thyself. Then you will not be false to any man.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 We need to use a colon, not a semi-colon, to separate This above all: be true to thyself. Or we may turn the two sentences independent, separated by a period (.).

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) She prayed to God - God, who is all Merciful. (B) She prayed to God, God who is all Merciful.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 The second mention of God is to define the term. This mention can be separated only by a colon or a full stop. If we wish to use a period (,), the second mention of God will need to be deleted. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) There is sweetness in sad music - the still sad music of humanity. (B) There is sweetness - in sad music - the still sad music of humanity.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 There is no pause within There is sweetness in sad music to call for a dash.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) We - who have assembled here - promise our full support to you. (B) We - who have assembled here, promise our full support to you.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 The adjunct 'who have assembled here' needs to be separated either by commas on both sides, or by periods (,), not by a mixture of the two. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Ravi - the youngest boy in the class - has topped the list. (B) Ravi the youngest boy in the class - has topped the list.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 The adjunct the youngest boy in the class  needs to be separated either by dash on both sides, or by period (,), not by a mixture of the two. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) He is - between you and me, a crooked person. (B) He is, between you and me, a crooked person.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

  The adjunct between you and me needs to be separated either by dash on both sides, or by period (,), not by a mixture of the two. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Even at this young age, because of the influence of environment, he has started taking interest in music. (B) Even at this young age - because of the influence of environment - he has started taking interest in music.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

  The adjunct because of the influence of environment can be separated either by dash on both sides, or by period (,). 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) The saint preached - The knowledge of thyself will preserve thee from vanity. (B) The saint preached - The knowledge of thyself - will preserve thee from vanity.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

There is no pause within The knowledge of thyself will preserve thee from vanity. Hence, no dash. This is not the case of an adjunct separating two parts of a sentence. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) One new Holiday-Home of our company is going to be opened at Mussoorie very shortly. (B) One new-Holiday-Home of our company is going to be opened at Mussoorie very shortly.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 Only 'Holiday-Home' needs to be conjoined. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) My father-in-law wants us to visit them in the holidays along with our children. (B) My father-in law wants us to visit them in the holidays along with our children.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 The complete term 'father-in-law' must be separated by hyphens. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Raju's books have got exchanged with Nitus . (B) Raju's books have got exchanged with Nitu's.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 The possessive (Nitu's) will use an apostrophe.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) The commander in-chief ordered to open the fire. (B) The commander- in-chief ordered to open the fire.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 The complete designation commander-in-chief needs to be joined with hyphens (-). 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Work is worship. (B) Work's worship.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 Although apostrophe is often used to shorten a word or words, we cannot use apostrophe where it could give entirely different meanings. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) One should love ones country. (B) One should love one's country.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 The possessive (one's) should use an apostrophe. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Slow and steady, wins the race. (B) Slow and steady wins the race.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

There is no pause in the sentence and hence no comma required.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) India is a big country having a population of more than 100 crores. (B) India is a big country, having a population of more than 100 crores.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 There is no pause within the sentence and hence no use of comma. 

Directions: The following question consist of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Indians are settled all over the world. (B) Indians are settled all over world.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A

Directions: The following question consist of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) The Japanese are the most patriotic people. (B) Japanese are most patriotic people.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 Nationalities and superlatives are both preceded by definite article 'the'.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) New York is very big. (B) New York is a very big city.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

 The first sentence is about definite New York (no article needed). The second is about 'a city'. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) God loves those who love His creatures. (B) God loves those who love his creatures.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

'His' ought to use capitals as it stands for 'God'.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Lakhs of people go to Haridwar to have a dip in the holy Ganga. (B) Lakhs of people go to Haridwar to have a dip in holy Ganga.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 Definite article (the) is used before water bodies. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Pray to God Almighty that He may grant thy wishes. (B) Pray to God almighty that he may grant thy wishes.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 'He' will use large case as it stands for God.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) O, what can ail thee knight-at-arms? (B) O what can ail thee knight-at-arms?

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 There is a pause after the exclamation (O). So, we need a period or exclamation mark after 'O'.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Lakshman said, do not cross this line, whatever the circumstances. (B) Lakshman said do not cross this line, whatever the circumstances.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 We need a comma after the reportiing verb. And the reported speech must start with capitals.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked A and B. Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) During his discourse he said, nothing is good or bad; only thinking makes it so. (B) During his discourse, he said, Nothing is good or bad; only thinking makes it so.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 There is a pause before (he said) necessitationg a comma. We need to use quote marks for the reported speech and this will start with capital letter.

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked A and B. Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Pardon, she muttered. I can t help it. My head aches, I shall go away. (B) Pardon, she muttered, I can t help it. My head aches, I shall go away.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The reporting verb (she muttered) needs to be separated by commas on either side. And the reported speech should be in quote marks. 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked A and B. Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Can I see you? said I. I didn t want to say, alone again but with out it the thing seemed self-evident. (B) Can I see you? said I. I didn t want to say alone again but without it the thing seemed self-evident.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 The reporting verb said I needs to be separated by commas on either side. The reported speech divided into two parts should begin and end with quote marks in each case.  The sentence should read:" Can I see you?", said I, "I didn't want to say alone again, but without it the thing seemed self-evident." 

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked A and B. Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Can you tell me the way to nearest inn?, said the traveler. yes, said the peasant. Do you want one where you can spend the night? (B) Can you tell me the way to the nearest inn?, said the traveler. Yes, said the peasant. Do you want one where you can spend the night?

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 Yes should begin with capitals

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked (A) and (B). Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation. Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Muhammad Shah, seeing him pass, said to one of the guests, Did you notice that old man who passed just now? Yes, said the visitor, what is so remarkable about him? (B) Muhammad Shah, seeing him pass, said to one of the guests, did you notice that old man who passed just now? yes, said the visitor. What is so remarkable about him?

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The reported speech should begin with a capital letter in each case.  

Directions: The following question consists of two sentences marked A and B. Read both the sentences carefully and mark the one that has correct punctuation.

Mark your answer as

(A) If only A is correct (B) If only B is correct (C) If both A and B are correct. (D) If both A and B are wrong.

(A) Who hath dared to wound thee? cried the giant, Tell me, that I may take my big sword and slay him, Nay, answered the child, but these are the wounds of love. (B) Who hath dared to wound thee? cried the giant, Tell me that I may take my big sword and slay him. Nay answered the child, but these are the wound of love.

  1. (A)

  2. (B)

  3. (C)

  4. (D)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 There are two reporting verbs: cried the giant and answered the child. Both  need to be separated by commas on either side. The reported speech divided into two parts should begin and end with quote marks in each case. The pronoun 'that' is not preceded by a comma.

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