Independent/Dependent Clauses, FANBOYS + Commas

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.

Front

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.

Front

What does FANBOYS stand for?

Back

FANBOYS is an acronym for the coordinating conjunctions: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

Front

When should you use a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A comma should be used before a coordinating conjunction when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence with an independent clause and a dependent clause.

Back

Although it was raining, we went for a walk.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate a list of adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate adjectives that equally modify a noun. Example: 'The tall, dark, and handsome man walked into the room.'

Front

When is a comma not needed in a sentence?

Back

A comma is not needed when the sentence is clear without it, such as in 'The old wooden table was sold at the auction.'

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause, separate items in a list, or clarify meaning in a sentence.

Front

How do you identify an independent clause in a sentence?

Back

An independent clause can be identified by checking if it has a subject and a verb and if it expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a compound sentence?

Back

In a compound sentence, use a comma before the coordinating conjunction that connects two independent clauses.