Comma Rules

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (FANBOYS) when joining two independent (complete) sentences.

Front

What does FANBOYS stand for?

Back

For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So - coordinating conjunctions used to connect words, phrases, or clauses.

Front

What is the rule for commas in a series?

Back

Commas are used to separate three or more items in a list.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

A group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

To clarify meaning by indicating a pause or separating elements within the sentence.

Front

What is the rule for separating adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more adjectives that describe the same noun.

Front

What is a non-essential clause?

Back

A clause that adds extra information to a sentence but can be removed without changing the sentence's meaning.

Front

What is an appositive phrase?

Back

A noun or noun phrase that renames or provides additional information about another noun.