Comma Usage

Front

What is the primary purpose of using commas 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

When should a comma be used after an introductory phrase?

Back

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

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a list?

Back

Commas are used to separate three or more items in a list, and a comma is typically placed before the conjunction (and, or) in the last item.

Front

How do you correctly punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

In a compound sentence, a comma is used before the conjunction (and, but, or) that connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an example of a sentence that requires a comma before a conjunction?

Back

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

Front

When should commas be used with non-essential clauses?

Back

Commas should be used to set off non-essential clauses that provide additional information but can be removed without changing the meaning of the sentence.

Front

What is the difference between essential and non-essential clauses?

Back

Essential clauses are necessary for the meaning of the sentence and are not set off by commas, while non-essential clauses can be removed without altering the sentence's meaning and are set off by commas.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a direct address?

Back

When directly addressing someone in a sentence, commas are used to set off the name or title from the rest of the sentence.

Front

What is an example of a sentence with a direct address?

Back

Example: 'Lisa, can you help me with this project?'

Front

When should commas be used with dates and addresses?

Back

Commas are used to separate the elements of a date (e.g., 'July 4, 1776') and to separate parts of an address (e.g., '123 Main St, Springfield, IL').