Using Commas Correctly

Front

What is the 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

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma, also known as the serial comma, is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. It is used to avoid ambiguity.

Front

When should you use a comma 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

How do you correctly list items in a series?

Back

When listing items in a series, use commas to separate each item, and place a conjunction (like 'and' or 'or') before the last item.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction, often requiring a comma before the conjunction.

Front

When should you use a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A comma should be used before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an example of a correctly punctuated list?

Back

An example of a correctly punctuated list is: 'I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.'

Front

How do commas help clarify meaning in a sentence?

Back

Commas help clarify meaning by indicating pauses and separating elements, which can prevent misreading or confusion.

Front

What is a non-restrictive clause?

Back

A non-restrictive clause provides additional information that is not essential to the meaning of the sentence and is set off by commas.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

You should not use a comma to separate a subject from its verb or to separate two items that are closely related.