Punctuation Mastery: Commas and Semicolons

What does FANBOYS stand for in the context of coordinating conjunctions?

• For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So

• First, Also, Next, Because, Otherwise, Yet, Similarly

• From, An, Near, By, Off, Yet, Such

• Forward, After, Near, Before, On, With, Soon

Why is the Oxford Comma considered important in lists?

• It is only used in the Oxford style of writing.

• It replaces the need for conjunctions.

• It is mandatory in all forms of writing.

• It clarifies the separation between list items.

What is the purpose of a comma after an introductory phrase?

• To end the sentence

• To indicate a pause or separation

• To separate an independent clause from a dependent clause

• To introduce a list

In which case would you not use a comma with a dependent clause?

• When it starts the sentence

• When it is used as an appositive

• When it contains a list

• When it ends the sentence

What is an appositive?

• A type of conjunction

• A phrase that renames a noun or pronoun

• An introductory phrase

• A dependent clause

What is the rule for using commas with non-restrictive relative clauses?

• Never use commas

• Use a comma only before the clause

• Use a comma only after the clause

• Always use a comma before and after

How should commas be used when addressing someone directly?

• Use a comma before and after the name

• Use a comma after the name

• Use a comma before the name

• No commas are necessary

What is the main reason to avoid using a comma between a subject and its verb?

• It makes the sentence a question

• It changes the subject of the sentence

• It is grammatically incorrect

• It can lead to a run-on sentence

When should a semicolon be used to separate items in a series?

• When the items are simple and short

• When the items contain internal commas

• When the list is in the beginning of a sentence

• When the list is at the end of a paragraph

What is the correct placement of a semicolon in a sentence with conjunctive adverbs?

• Before and after the adverb

• Only after the adverb

• No semicolon is needed with conjunctive adverbs

• Only before the adverb