Using commas

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.

Front

When should you use commas in a list?

Back

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

Front

What is a non-restrictive clause?

Back

A non-restrictive clause adds extra information to a sentence but is not essential to its meaning and is usually set off by commas.

Front

What is a restrictive clause?

Back

A restrictive clause provides essential information about the noun it modifies and is not set off by commas.

Front

How do you use commas with direct address?

Back

Use commas to separate the name of a person being addressed from the rest of the sentence.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main part of the sentence.

Front

When should you use commas with quotations?

Back

Use commas to separate a quotation from the rest of the sentence, especially when introducing or interrupting the quote.