This video tutorial provides a refresher on grammar and mechanics, focusing on common errors and their corrections. It covers punctuation rules, including the use of commas, semicolons, and colons, and explains the correct use of apostrophes and ampersands. The tutorial also addresses subject-verb and pronoun agreement, the distinction between 'which' and 'that', and the importance of using the correct verb tense. Additionally, it highlights the differences between commonly confused words like 'affect' and 'effect', and the proper use of phrases such as 'comprises' and 'as far as'.

What is the primary focus of the introduction in the grammar and mechanics refresher?

• The role of grammar in creative writing

• Common errors in scholarly writing

• Advanced grammar techniques

• Historical development of grammar rules

Which punctuation mark is used to indicate a natural pause in a sentence?

• Period

• Comma

• Colon

• Semicolon

Which punctuation mark should be used to join independent clauses?

• Semicolon

• Colon

• Comma

• Dash

What is the role of a colon in a sentence?

• To introduce a list

• To indicate a pause

• To end a sentence

• To separate two independent clauses

When should an ampersand be used in writing?

• Only in parenthetical citations

• In place of 'and' in all sentences

• In formal titles

• To start a sentence

What is a common mistake in subject-verb agreement?

• Using a verb that does not match the subject in number

• All of the above

• Using a plural verb with a singular subject

• Using a singular verb with a plural subject

What should you do if you are unsure about subject-verb agreement?

• Read the subject and verb aloud

• Use a grammar checker

• Consult a dictionary

• Ignore the issue

What is a common error when using pronouns with singular nouns of unknown gender?

• Using 'he or she'

• Using 'they'

• Using 'one'

• Using 'it'

Which pronoun is used in non-restrictive clauses?

• That

• Which

• Who

• Whom

Which of the following is a restrictive clause?

• The book that was on the table is mine.

• The book, that was on the table, is mine.

• The book, which was on the table, is mine.

• The book which was on the table is mine.