The SAT Writing section isn’t about knowing every obscure grammar rule—it’s about mastering the small set of rules that show up again and again. If you memorize these core rules and practice applying them, you’ll answer most questions with confidence and speed.
To make your prep even more effective, you can also use RevisionDojo’s Reading Analytics, which pinpoints the grammar and reading patterns you struggle with most, helping you progress faster without wasted study time.
Here’s your ultimate cheat sheet of SAT grammar rules every student should memorize.
Quick Start Checklist
- Learn the 10 core grammar rules tested most often.
- Practice applying them in official-style SAT questions.
- Train with concise explanations instead of full textbooks.
- Review mistakes with analytics to target weak spots.
- Simulate timed sections to lock in pacing.
Core SAT Grammar Rules You Must Memorize
1. Subject-Verb Agreement
- Verbs must match subjects in number.
- Ignore interrupting phrases.
- Example: The group of students is excited (not are).
2. Pronoun Agreement and Clarity
- Pronouns must clearly match their antecedent.
- Avoid ambiguous pronouns like “it” or “they.”
- Example: Each student must bring his or her notebook (not their).
3. Modifier Placement
- Modifiers should be close to what they describe.
- Example: Running to class, Sarah forgot her notes (not the notes forgot themselves).
4. Parallel Structure
- Items in lists or comparisons must be grammatically consistent.
- Example: She enjoys reading, writing, and running, not reading, writing, and to run.
5. Punctuation Mastery
- Commas: separate items, clauses, or phrases—never splice sentences.
- Semicolons: link two related independent clauses.
- Colons: introduce lists, explanations, or examples.
- Dashes: add emphasis or side notes.
6. Verb Tense Consistency
- Stay in the same tense unless the timeline shifts.
- Example: She walked into the room and sits down → wrong.
7. Conciseness and Redundancy
- SAT prefers the most concise version.
- Example: The reason is because → just because.
8. Logical Transitions
- Transition words must match meaning.
- Example: However (contrast) vs. Therefore (cause/effect).
9. Idioms and Word Choice
- Memorize standard phrases: different from (not different than), as…as, between…and, etc.
10. Apostrophes and Possession
- Singular: student’s book = one student.
- Plural: students’ books = multiple students.
Why Memorization Alone Isn’t Enough
It’s not enough to “know” these rules—you need to apply them under time pressure. This is where many students slip up. You may understand subject-verb agreement in theory but miss it when you’re rushing through a dense passage.
That’s why active practice and feedback are just as important as memorization.
Using RevisionDojo’s Reading Analytics for Faster Progress
RevisionDojo’s Reading Analytics takes your SAT prep beyond memorization by showing:
- Which grammar rules you miss most often.
- Whether your mistakes happen at the start or end of passages (stamina issues).
- If you fall for wrong answer traps like extreme or irrelevant choices.
This personalized insight helps you spend less time on what you’ve already mastered and more time fixing your weak points.
For example, if analytics show you’re repeatedly missing modifier placement questions, you’ll know to drill that rule until it becomes automatic.
This approach mirrors strategies in AP and IB prep too. See How to Identify Wrong Answer Traps in SAT Reading for another example of how analytics help break patterns.
Study Plan to Memorize SAT Grammar Rules
Step 1: Build Your Rule Bank
Start with the 10 rules above. Write them on flashcards or keep a one-page cheat sheet.
Step 2: Apply in Practice Sets
After reviewing rules, jump into timed SAT-style grammar questions.
Step 3: Track Errors with Analytics
Log every mistake into RevisionDojo’s Reading Analytics or your own error journal.
Step 4: Focus on Weaknesses
Don’t drill everything equally. Focus on what analytics tell you is your weakest rule set.
Step 5: Full Section Practice
Do timed Writing sections (35 minutes, 44 questions). Use checkpoint pacing—about 45 seconds per question.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Memorizing too many rules. Focus on the ones that actually show up.
- Relying on what “sounds right.” The SAT rewards grammar, not instinct.
- Ignoring punctuation rules. Comma splices and semicolon misuse appear constantly.
- Not reviewing errors. Without feedback, mistakes repeat.
FAQs About SAT Grammar Rules
1. Do I need to memorize every grammar rule in English?
No. The SAT only tests a small set of predictable grammar concepts. Memorizing the 10 above covers most of the exam.
2. How can I learn rules faster?
Don’t just read explanations—practice applying them in real test questions. Then review mistakes. RevisionDojo’s Reading Analytics makes this process faster by showing patterns.
3. Can SAT grammar practice help in AP/IB?
Yes. Grammar precision improves essay writing for APUSH, AP Gov, and IB English. For crossover skills, check How to Write a Perfect DBQ for AP U.S. History or The AP Government Exam Format Explained.
4. How do I balance speed and accuracy?
Memorize rules first, then practice under time limits. Use checkpoints: by 20 minutes, aim to have 25 questions done. Over time, your accuracy will hold even at full pace.
Conclusion: Memorize, Apply, Analyze
The SAT Writing section rewards students who memorize the right rules, apply them under pressure, and refine their weak spots with feedback. By focusing on the 10 essential grammar rules and using RevisionDojo’s Reading Analytics to speed up progress, you’ll study smarter, not harder.
With consistent practice, grammar becomes automatic—and the Writing section becomes one of your highest-scoring areas.
RevisionDojo Call to Action:
Want to master SAT grammar in record time? Use RevisionDojo’s Reading Analytics and expert study guides to target weaknesses, build confidence, and boost your score.
