colons, semicolons, and commas

Front

What is a comma used for in a sentence?

Back

A comma is used to separate items in a list, to set off introductory elements, and to separate independent clauses when joined by conjunctions.

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses that are not joined by a conjunction.

Front

What is the purpose of a colon in a sentence?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation that follows.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a comma correctly.

Back

I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a semicolon correctly.

Back

I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a colon correctly.

Back

She had one goal: to win the championship.

Front

What punctuation is used to separate items in a complex list?

Back

Semicolons are used to separate items in a complex list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a semicolon?

Back

A comma is used to separate elements within a sentence, while a semicolon connects two independent clauses.

Front

When is no punctuation needed in a sentence?

Back

No punctuation is needed when the clauses are closely related and do not require separation.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.