Colons, Semicolons, and Commas

Front

What is a colon used for?

Back

A colon (:) is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

What is a semicolon used for?

Back

A semicolon (;) is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

What is a comma used for?

Back

A comma (,) is used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, or to set off clauses.

Front

When should you use a colon before a list?

Back

Use a colon before a list when the introductory clause is a complete sentence.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a period?

Back

Use a semicolon instead of a period to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a series?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a series.

Front

How do you use a semicolon with conjunctive adverbs?

Back

Use a semicolon before a conjunctive adverb (e.g., however, therefore) when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

A comma is used before the coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) that connects two independent clauses.

Front

When is it appropriate to use a colon in a sentence?

Back

A colon is appropriate when you want to emphasize or elaborate on the preceding clause.

Front

What is an example of a sentence using a semicolon?

Back

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