Semicolons, Colons, Dashes, Hyphens

When should a hyphen be used?

• To connect two or more words that function as a single adjective before a noun, or to separate syllables of a single word.

• To indicate a pause in a sentence.

• To replace a comma in a list of items.

• To connect two independent clauses.

What is a semicolon?

• A punctuation mark used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

• A type of sentence that expresses a complete thought.

• A mark used to indicate a pause longer than a comma but shorter than a period.

• A symbol used in mathematical equations to separate different operations.

What punctuation is used to separate items in a complex list?

• A comma

• A period

• A semicolon

• A colon

Provide an example of a semicolon in a sentence.

• I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.

• I enjoy reading books, especially mysteries and thrillers.

• The sun is shining brightly, and the birds are singing.

• She loves to cook; however, she rarely has time.

What is a dash?

• A punctuation mark used to create a strong break in the structure of a sentence.

• A type of line used in graphs and charts.

• A symbol used to indicate a pause in speech.

• A mark used to separate items in a list.

Provide an example of a colon in a sentence.

• She brought three things to the picnic: sandwiches, drinks, and dessert.

• He enjoys reading books; especially mysteries.

• The meeting is scheduled for 10:00 AM, and everyone is expected to attend.

• I need to buy: milk, eggs, and bread.

When should a dash be used?

• To set off additional information or to create emphasis, often in place of commas or parentheses.

• To separate items in a list.

• To indicate a range of values, such as dates or numbers.

• To connect two independent clauses without a conjunction.

When should a colon be used?

• To introduce a list, a quote, or to emphasize a point after an independent clause.

• To separate two independent clauses without a conjunction.

• To indicate a pause in a sentence.

• To introduce a new paragraph.

What punctuation would you use in the sentence: 'I need to buy eggs___milk___and bread.'

• Commas: 'I need to buy eggs, milk, and bread.'

• Colons: 'I need to buy eggs: milk: and bread.'

• Semicolons: 'I need to buy eggs; milk; and bread.'

• Dashes: 'I need to buy eggs - milk - and bread.'

Provide an example of a hyphen in a sentence.

• The well-known author will be speaking at the event.

• The author will be speaking at the event.

• The author is well known for his books.

• The event will be well attended.