HESI A2 grammar catches students off guard because it tests precise rules, not general writing ability. A single misplaced comma or subject-verb mismatch can cost you a point you thought was easy.
This guide covers 8 common HESI A2 grammar rules, example questions and a fast way to build your accuracy before test day.
What Does the HESI A2 Grammar Section Cover?
The grammar section tests your ability to spot correct sentence structure, word usage and punctuation. Expect multiple-choice questions asking you to identify the correctly written sentence or fix an error. Exact question formats can vary by exam version.
8 Common HESI A2 Grammar Rules
1. Subject-Verb Agreement
Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs. Watch for subjects separated from their verb by a long phrase, since that’s where errors hide.
Example: “The list of patients is ready” (not “are,” since “list” is the singular subject).
2. Pronoun Agreement
A pronoun must match its noun in number and gender. Watch for vague pronouns that could refer to more than one noun.
Example: “Each nurse must bring her or his ID badge” (not “their,” in strict formal usage).
3. Commonly Confused Words
Know the difference between words that sound alike but mean different things:
- Their / there / they’re
- Your / you’re
- Its / it’s
- Affect / effect
- Then / than
4. Comma Usage
Use commas to separate items in a list, join two independent clauses with a conjunction, and set off introductory phrases.
Example: “After the exam, students left the room” (comma after the introductory phrase).
5. Apostrophes for Possession and Contractions
Use an apostrophe plus “s” for singular possession, and “s” plus an apostrophe for plural possession. Don’t confuse possessive pronouns like “its” with contractions like “it’s.”
6. Sentence Fragments and Run-Ons
A complete sentence needs a subject and a verb, and it must express a complete thought. A run-on incorrectly joins two complete sentences without proper punctuation or a conjunction.
7. Parallel Structure
Items in a list or comparison should use the same grammatical form.
Example: “The nurse checked vital signs, recorded notes, and administered medication” (not “administering”).
8. Verb Tense Consistency
Keep verb tense consistent within a sentence or passage unless the meaning requires a shift.
Example: “She studied all week and passed the exam” (both past tense).
How to Study HESI A2 Grammar Efficiently
- Diagnose your weak rules first. Use our free practice tests to see which grammar rules trip you up most.
- Review one rule per session. Mixing all 8 rules at once makes it harder to spot patterns in your mistakes.
- Practice with real sentences. Write or find sentences, then identify and fix the errors yourself.
- Read carefully, not quickly. Grammar questions reward careful reading over speed.
- Review missed questions. Note which specific rule you missed, not just that you got a question wrong.
Best Resources for HESI A2 Grammar
Our 9-in-1 HESI A2 study bundle includes a grammar guide covering these rules with practice questions and explanations.
FAQ
Is HESI A2 grammar hard?
It depends on how recently you’ve studied formal grammar rules. Most students improve quickly once they review the specific rules above and practice spotting errors.
Does every nursing program require HESI A2 grammar?
Requirements vary by program. Check your school’s admissions page to confirm which sections you need to take.
Sharpen Your HESI A2 Grammar Skills
HESI A2 grammar rewards careful, rule-by-rule review rather than general reading. Learn the 8 rules above, practice with real sentences, and track which mistakes repeat.
For full section-by-section practice, explore our complete HESI A2 study bundle, and get support anytime in our HESI A2 study group on Facebook.
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