Comma Usage Test

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

A comma is used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, or to clarify meaning.

Front

When should a comma be used before a conjunction?

Back

A comma should be used before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects 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 because 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 and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction (like 'because', 'although', 'if').

Front

When should a comma be used after an introductory phrase?

Back

A comma should be used after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause of the sentence.

Front

Identify the correct use of a comma in this sentence: 'After dinner we went for a walk.'

Back

The correct sentence is: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.' A comma is needed after the introductory phrase.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction.

Front

When is it unnecessary to use a comma in a sentence?

Back

It is unnecessary to use a comma when the sentence is short and clear, or when it connects two items in a simple list.

Front

Identify the correct use of a comma in this sentence: 'I like apples oranges and bananas.'

Back

The correct sentence is: 'I like apples, oranges, and bananas.' A comma is needed before 'and' in a list.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more adjectives that equally describe a noun (e.g., 'It was a long, tiring day.').