Written Expression: Clear, Structured, Purposeful Writing
What this domain tests
Written Expression evaluates how well you improve and produce text: choosing the best word, fixing grammar and punctuation, ordering sentences logically, combining ideas smoothly, and writing a short piece with a clear structure. Markers reward clarity, accuracy, and control of tone.
Concepts to master
- Sentence structure: subject-verb agreement, complete sentences, avoiding run-ons and dangling modifiers.
- Punctuation: commas in lists and clauses, apostrophes for possession, correct quotation marks.
- Word choice: precise verbs, avoiding redundancy, matching register to audience.
- Cohesion: pronouns with clear referents, transitional words (however, therefore, in contrast).
- Paragraph logic: topic sentence, supporting detail, concluding link.
- Editing: tightening wordy phrases and removing repetition.
Traps that appear
- Sentences that are grammatical but illogical in sequence.
- Comma splices joining two independent clauses.
- Pronouns with ambiguous referents across sentences.
- Overly formal or casual tone that clashes with the task.
- Options that are longer but no clearer.
Worked example
Original: "The team was pleased, they had finished the project early." This is a comma splice. Repair it with a full stop, a semicolon, or a conjunction: "The team was pleased because they had finished the project early." Rule of thumb: if both halves of a sentence could stand alone, they need more than a comma between them.