Commas and Combining Sentences

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

You should use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence because it has a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction (like 'although', 'because').

Front

How do you correctly punctuate a sentence with an introductory phrase?

Back

You should place a comma after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause.

Front

What is an example of a sentence with an introductory phrase?

Back

Example: 'After the movie, we went out for ice cream.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a list, except for the last item, which is usually preceded by 'and' or 'or'.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a direct address?

Back

Use commas to set off the name of the person being addressed. Example: 'Can you help me, Sarah?'.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction.

Front

How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

Use a comma before the conjunction that connects the independent clauses.