Concept 5

Use dashes/parentheses for parenthetical information without breaking grammar.

Core Idea

Parenthetical punctuation should let extra information drop into the sentence without damaging the main grammar.

Understanding

Rule: Dashes and parentheses both signal interruption. The sentence should still read smoothly if you remove the parenthetical material completely.

ACT may ask for dashes when the writer wants stronger emphasis. Whatever mark you choose, make sure the pair is balanced and the sentence outside the interruption is still complete.

Question

Worked Example

The writer wants to emphasize the interruption. Which choice best completes the sentence?

"The astronomy club's telescope _____ now sits in the library lobby."

Select an answer to see the explanation