Punctuation and Grammar Rules

Front

Comma Rule 1

Back

Use a comma for items in a list. Ex. Albert goes to the grocery store, laundromat, and the post office every week.

Front

Comma Rule 2

Back

Use a comma before coordinating conjunctions that join two independent clauses. Ex. Brenda enjoys ice skating, and Carlos likes to fish.

Front

Comma Rule 3

Back

Use a comma between 2 adjectives. Ex. Diana has a caring, intelligent dog.

Front

Comma Rule 4

Back

Use a pair of commas around nonessential information. Ex. Edward, a high school senior, likes to spend time with his friends.

Front

Comma Rule 5

Back

Use a comma around introductory elements. Ex. When she finishes her homework, Amy also likes to hang out with her friends.

Front

Comma Rule 6

Back

Use commas in dates and addresses. Ex. George moved to Jefferson City, Missouri, on Friday, September 9, 2019.

Front

Rule 7: semicolon

Back

Use semicolon (;) between two independent clauses. Ex. Hayley also moved in September; she rented a moving truck.

Front

Rule 8: semicolon

Back

Use a semicolon before a coordinating conjunction when either clause contains a list of items separated by commas. Ex. Isaac did not move; but he traveled to Canada, Mexico, and Ireland that year.

Front

Rule 9: semicolon

Back

Use a semicolon between items in a list when any of the items contain commas, causing confusion. Ex. Jenna traveled to San Diego, California; Denver, Colorado; and Nashville, Tennessee.

Front

Rule 10: colons

Back

Use a colon to introduce a list. Ex. Kevin brought many things with him on his trip: a backpack, a camera, and a passport.