Comma, Comma, Comma, Comma, Comma, Chameleon

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, to set off introductory elements, and to clarify meaning.

Front

How do you correctly use commas in direct address?

Back

When directly addressing someone in a sentence, place a comma before or after the person's name. For example: 'Let's eat, Grandma!'

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a list?

Back

In a list of three or more items, use commas to separate the items. For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses. For example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate a date?

Back

When writing a date, use a comma to separate the day from the year. For example: 'May 5, 2016.'

Front

How do you punctuate a letter's salutation?

Back

In a letter, the salutation should be followed by a comma. For example: 'Dear Grandma,'

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. Its use can clarify meaning, as in: 'I love my parents, Lady Gaga, and Humpty Dumpty.'

Front

When should commas be used with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more coordinate adjectives that describe the same noun. For example: 'It was a long, exhausting day.'

Front

What is a common mistake when using commas?

Back

A common mistake is the comma splice, which occurs when two independent clauses are joined by a comma without a coordinating conjunction.

Front

How do you use commas with non-essential clauses?

Back

Non-essential clauses should be set off by commas. For example: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting this weekend.'