Apostrophes and Commas

Front

What is an apostrophe used for?

Back

An apostrophe is used to indicate possession (e.g., the dog's leash) or to form contractions (e.g., can't for cannot).

Front

What is the correct use of commas in a list?

Back

Commas are used to separate items in a list (e.g., apples, oranges, and bananas).

Front

How do you show possession for plural nouns?

Back

For plural nouns that end in 's', add an apostrophe after the 's' (e.g., the teachers' lounge).

Front

What is the rule for using commas before conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before conjunctions (and, but, or) when connecting two independent clauses (e.g., I wanted to go, but I was too tired).

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a direct address?

Back

Use commas to set off the name of the person being addressed (e.g., Let's eat, Grandma!).

Front

What is the difference between 'its' and 'it's'?

Back

'Its' is a possessive pronoun (e.g., the cat licked its paw), while 'it's' is a contraction for 'it is' (e.g., it's raining).

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a comma?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect closely related independent clauses without a conjunction (e.g., I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight).

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

A comma is used before the conjunction in a compound sentence to separate two independent clauses (e.g., I wanted to play, but it was raining).

Front

How do you punctuate a quote within a sentence?

Back

Use commas to introduce a quote and place punctuation inside the quotation marks (e.g., She said, 'I will be there soon.').

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate a sentence with an introductory phrase?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase (e.g., After dinner, we went for a walk).