ACT Comma Usage Flashcard 1

Front

What is the rule for using commas with conjunctions?

Back

Commas are used before conjunctions (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when they connect two independent clauses.

Front

What is the purpose of commas in a series?

Back

Commas are used to separate three or more items in a list to clarify the items being mentioned.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with an introductory phrase?

Back

A comma is placed after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause.

Front

When should you use a comma to offset appositives?

Back

Commas are used to set off appositives, which are nouns or noun phrases that rename another noun right beside it.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

Commas are used to separate two or more coordinate adjectives that describe the same noun.

Front

How do you determine if a comma is needed in a sentence?

Back

Look for independent clauses, introductory phrases, items in a series, and appositives to determine if a comma is necessary.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Front

What is the function of a comma in direct address?

Back

A comma is used to separate the name of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence.

Front

When is it appropriate to use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

A comma is used before 'and' in a list of three or more items (Oxford comma) for clarity, though it is optional.