Using Commas, Semicolons, & Avoiding Comma Splices

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

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

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

How do you correctly use a semicolon in a sentence?

Back

Use a semicolon to link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, without a conjunction.

Front

What is a comma splice?

Back

A grammatical error that occurs when two independent clauses are joined by a comma without a coordinating conjunction.

Front

How can you fix a comma splice?

Back

You can fix a comma splice by using a period, a semicolon, or adding a conjunction.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list.

Front

When should you use commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause that precedes the main clause.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate non-restrictive clauses?

Back

Use commas to set off non-restrictive clauses that provide additional information but are not essential to the meaning of the sentence.

Front

What is the difference between restrictive and non-restrictive clauses?

Back

Restrictive clauses are essential to the meaning of a sentence and are not set off by commas; non-restrictive clauses add extra information and are set off by commas.