Commas and Combining Sentences

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.

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

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

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence because it has a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction (like 'although', 'because').

Front

How do you correctly punctuate a sentence with an introductory phrase?

Back

You should place a comma after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause.

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in a list?

Back

Commas are used in a list to separate items, making it clear that each item is distinct.

Front

How do you punctuate direct address in a sentence?

Back

When directly addressing someone in a sentence, use a comma to separate the name from the rest of the sentence.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a conjunction.

Front

How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of a sentence that needs a comma for clarity?

Back

Example: 'Let's eat, Grandma!' vs. 'Let's eat Grandma!' The comma clarifies that you are speaking to Grandma.