Commas--Series, FANBOYS, Dialogue

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a series?

Back

A comma is used to separate items in a list or series to clarify meaning. For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction in a compound sentence?

Back

A comma should be used before a conjunction (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects two independent clauses. Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

Front

What does FANBOYS stand for?

Back

FANBOYS is an acronym for the coordinating conjunctions: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

Front

Where do commas go in relation to quotation marks?

Back

Commas should be placed inside the quotation marks. Example: 'She said, "Hello!"'

Front

How many items must be in a list to require commas?

Back

A list must contain more than two items to require commas. Example: 'I need bread, milk, and eggs.'

Front

What is an example of a sentence that needs a comma before a conjunction?

Back

Example: 'I wanted to play outside, but it was too cold.'

Front

Identify the incorrect use of a comma in this sentence: 'I like pizza, and pasta.'

Back

The comma is correctly used here; however, if the sentence were 'I like pizza and, pasta,' the comma would be incorrect.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a list of three or more items?

Back

Use commas to separate each item in the list, including before the conjunction. Example: 'We need to buy eggs, milk, bread, and cheese.'

Front

What is the effect of omitting a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

Omitting a comma can lead to confusion or misinterpretation of the sentence. Example: 'Let's eat, Grandma!' vs. 'Let's eat Grandma!'

Front

What is a common mistake when using commas with FANBOYS?

Back

A common mistake is placing a comma incorrectly, such as 'I like ice cream and, cake.' The comma should not be placed before 'and' when it connects two items.