Commas, Commas, Commas

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, to set off introductory elements, and to clarify meaning.

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

A comma should be used before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone.

Front

How do you punctuate a list of three or more items?

Back

Use commas to separate the items in the list, and place an 'and' before the last item.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

A comma should be placed after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause.

Front

When should you use commas to set off non-essential information?

Back

Use commas to set off non-essential information that can be removed without changing the meaning of the sentence.

Front

What is the difference between essential and non-essential clauses?

Back

Essential clauses provide necessary information to the meaning of the sentence, while non-essential clauses add extra information and can be removed.

Front

How do you punctuate direct address in a sentence?

Back

Use commas to set off the name or title of the person being addressed.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction.