What is a key component of sentence formation?

• A. Proper spelling
• B. Appropriate word choice
• C. Use of phrases and clauses
• D. Correct verb tense

Answer: (C)

A key component of sentence formation is the use of phrases and clauses. Phrases are groups of words that work together but do not contain a subject and verb, while clauses contain both a subject and a verb. Combining these elements effectively is essential for creating complete sentences that convey clear meaning. Phrases and clauses can be used to add detail, create complexity, or show relationships between ideas within a sentence, contributing to effective communication. For example, independent and dependent clauses can be combined to form complex sentences, enhancing the richness of the writing.

The other aspects, while important for overall writing quality, are more about style and mechanics rather than the fundamental structure of a sentence. Proper spelling relates to the accuracy of representing words, appropriate word choice concerns the selection of suitable words for context, and correct verb tense ensures the time of actions is clear—these factors do enhance sentences but do not define the structural integrity of sentence formation as phrases and clauses do.