Comma and Punctuation Review

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.

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When should commas be used in a list?

Back

Commas should be used to separate three or more items in a list. For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

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What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. It cannot stand alone as a sentence.

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How do you punctuate a sentence with a dependent clause?

Back

When a dependent clause comes before an independent clause, use a comma. For example: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

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What is the purpose of using commas in direct address?

Back

Commas are used in direct address to separate the name of the person being spoken to from the rest of the sentence. For example: 'Can you help me, Sarah?'.

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What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least 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?

Back

Use a comma before the coordinating conjunction that joins the independent clauses. For example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

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What is an appositive?

Back

An appositive is a noun or noun phrase that renames or explains another noun next to it. It is usually set off by commas. For example: 'My brother, a skilled musician, plays the guitar.'

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a comma?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect closely related independent clauses that are not joined by a coordinating conjunction. For example: 'I have a big test tomorrow; I can’t go out tonight.'

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma, also known as the serial comma, is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. For example: 'I love my parents, Lady Gaga, and Elvis Presley.'