Commas and Semicolons

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

What is a semicolon?

Back

A punctuation mark used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

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

Back

Use a comma before 'and' in a list of three or more items to clarify the separation between the items.

Front

What is the purpose of a semicolon in a sentence?

Back

To link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a comma correctly.

Back

I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a semicolon correctly.

Back

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

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause.

Front

How do you use commas in direct address?

Back

Use commas to separate the name of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a conjunction or a semicolon.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a conjunction?

Back

Use a semicolon when you want to connect two independent clauses without using a conjunction.