semicolons, colons, commas

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark used to connect closely related ideas or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

A semicolon should be used to link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, or to separate items in a list when those items contain commas.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

A colon (:) is a punctuation mark used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon should be used before a list, before a quote, or to separate two independent clauses when the second explains or illustrates the first.

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma (,) is a punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should a comma be used?

Back

A comma should be used to separate items in a list, before conjunctions in compound sentences, after introductory phrases, and to set off non-essential information.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects two related independent clauses, while a colon introduces a list, quote, or explanation.

Front

Provide an example of a correct semicolon usage.

Back

Example: "I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight."

Front

Provide an example of a correct colon usage.

Back

Example: "She has three pets: a dog, a cat, and a rabbit."

Front

Provide an example of a correct comma usage in a list.

Back

Example: "For breakfast, I had eggs, toast, and orange juice."