Comma Usage Flashcard

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 (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Front

When should you use a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A comma should be used before a coordinating conjunction when it connects two independent clauses in a compound sentence.

Front

What is the purpose of commas in a list?

Back

Commas are used in a list to separate items, making it clear that each item is distinct.

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

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

Front

How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

In a compound sentence, place a comma before the coordinating conjunction that connects the two independent clauses.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence; it has a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence; it does not express a complete thought.

Front

Provide an example of a correct compound sentence.

Back

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

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a series of three or more items?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a series of three or more, placing a comma before the conjunction in the last two items.

Front

What is the difference between a compound sentence and a complex sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses, while a complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.