Commas and Semicolons

Front

What is a comma?

Back

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 'and' in a list?

Back

Use a comma before 'and' in a list of three or more items (Oxford comma). Example: I need apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

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 but not joined by a conjunction. Example: I like tea; my sister prefers coffee.

Front

What is the purpose of a colon?

Back

A punctuation mark (:) used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

How do you use a colon to introduce a list?

Back

Use a colon before a list when the preceding clause is a complete sentence. Example: You need to bring the following: a pen, paper, and a ruler.

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a semicolon?

Back

A comma indicates a pause or separates items, while a semicolon connects closely related independent clauses.

Front

When should you use a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when connecting two independent clauses. Example: I wanted to go; however, it was raining.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

A group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although).