This is one of the most common errors involving commas on the ACT, and it’s one that’s very easy to identify and fix.

A compound item is simply two nouns or verbs joined by the word “and.” The rule is that you never need a comma before the “and.”

If the grammatical terminology makes you too nervous, there’s also a great shortcut: comma + and = period, and if you plug in a period, you won’t have two full sentences. Since the period isn’t correct, “comma + and” isn’t correct either.


Compound Subject Errors

Incorrect: The cover, and the binding of the old book are beginning to disintegrate.

Period replaces “comma + and:” The cover. The binding of the old book are beginning to disintegrate.

Correct: The cover and the binding of the old book are beginning to disintegrate.


Compound Object Errors

Incorrect: The book has many pages, and illustrations.

Period replaces “comma + and:” The book has many pages. Illustrations.

Correct: The book has many pages and illustrations.


Compound Verb 

Incorrect: The cover of the old book is beginning to fade, and disintegrate.

Period replaces “comma + and:” The cover of the old book is beginning to fade. Disintegrate.

Correct: The cover of the old book is beginning to fade and disintegrate.