Commas and Coordinating Conjunctions

Front

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, or clauses that are similar or equal in structure. The most common coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so (FANBOYS).

Front

What is the purpose of using commas before coordinating conjunctions?

Back

Commas are used before coordinating conjunctions to separate independent clauses in a compound sentence, helping to clarify the relationship between the clauses.

Front

Provide an example of a correctly punctuated compound sentence using a coordinating conjunction.

Back

I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon.

Front

When should you not use a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

Back

You should not use a comma before a coordinating conjunction when it connects two items in a series or when it connects two adjectives that describe the same noun.

Front

What is the effect of using a comma in a sentence?

Back

Using a comma can clarify meaning, indicate a pause, separate elements in a list, or connect independent clauses.

Front

What are the seven coordinating conjunctions?

Back

The seven coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so.

Front

How does the placement of commas affect sentence clarity?

Back

Proper placement of commas can enhance sentence clarity by indicating pauses and separating ideas, while incorrect placement can lead to confusion.

Front

What is the difference between a coordinating conjunction and a subordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction connects equal parts of a sentence, while a subordinating conjunction introduces a dependent clause and shows the relationship between the dependent clause and the independent clause.