Commas, Colons, 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

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Front

How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

Use a comma before the coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) that connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is the correct punctuation for a salutation in a letter?

Back

Use a colon (:) after the salutation.

Front

How do you separate items in a list that contain commas?

Back

Use semicolons (;) to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

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

Front

When should you not use a comma before 'and'?

Back

Do not use a comma before 'and' when it connects two items in a simple list.

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces lists or explanations, while a semicolon connects closely related independent clauses.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a conjunctive adverb?

Back

Use a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb and a comma after it.