Commas/Semicolons/Colons

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 in a series?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list. For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

What is the purpose of a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

A colon (:) is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation. For example: 'He has three favorite fruits: apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

Which sentence uses commas correctly? 'I went to the store and bought apples oranges and bananas.' or 'I went to the store and bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Back

The correct sentence is: 'I went to the store and bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas before conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and' or 'but') when it connects two independent clauses. For example: 'I wanted to go, but it was raining.'

Front

How do you use commas with direct quotes?

Back

Place a comma before the opening quotation mark when introducing a quote. For example: He said, 'I love ice cream.'

Front

What is an example of a sentence that uses a semicolon correctly?

Back

An example is: 'I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.'

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a semicolon?

Back

A comma is used for short pauses and lists, while a semicolon connects closely related independent clauses.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma to separate a subject from its verb or to separate two items that are not part of a list.