Commas and Semicolons

Front

What is a comma?

Back

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

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 a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a comma?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, especially when they are not joined by a conjunction.

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. It is used to avoid ambiguity.

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of a comma in a list.

Back

I need eggs, milk, and bread.

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of a semicolon between independent clauses.

Back

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

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause.

Front

How do you use commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more coordinate adjectives that describe the same noun.

Front

What is a common mistake when using commas?

Back

A common mistake is using a comma to separate two independent clauses without a conjunction, which creates a comma splice.