Punctuation Review

Front

What is punctuation?

Back

Punctuation refers to the marks used in writing that help clarify meaning and separate linguistic units. Examples include periods, commas, question marks, and exclamation points.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, and to set off clauses or phrases.

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

A comma should be used before 'and' in a list of three or more items to clarify that the last item is separate from the others. This is known as the Oxford comma.

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Front

How do you punctuate direct speech?

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Direct speech is punctuated with quotation marks. The punctuation (comma, period, etc.) is placed inside the quotation marks.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

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A comma is used after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause of the sentence.

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What is a run-on sentence?

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A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunction.

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How do you correct a run-on sentence?

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You can correct a run-on sentence by adding a period, a semicolon, or a coordinating conjunction to separate the independent clauses.

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What is the function of a period?

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A period is used to indicate the end of a declarative sentence.

Front

What is an exclamation point used for?

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An exclamation point is used to express strong emotion or emphasis at the end of a sentence.