Punctuation

Front

What is punctuation?

Back

Punctuation refers to the marks used in writing that help clarify meaning and separate linguistic units. Common punctuation marks include periods, commas, question marks, and exclamation points.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma?

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

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

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A comma should be used before 'and' in a list of three or more items to separate the last item from the rest.

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What is an example of a correctly punctuated list?

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I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

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How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

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You use a comma before the coordinating conjunction that joins the two independent clauses.

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What is an example of a compound sentence?

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

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What is an appositive?

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An appositive is a noun or noun phrase that renames or clarifies another noun next to it.

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How do you punctuate an appositive?

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An appositive is set off by commas if it is non-restrictive (not essential to the meaning of the sentence).

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What is an example of a sentence with an appositive?

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My brother, a talented musician, plays the guitar.