Punctuation Review #2

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a list?

Back

To separate items in a series, making it clear that they are distinct elements. For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

When listing three or more items, a comma is used before 'and' (Oxford comma) to clarify the separation of the last two items. Example: 'I like coffee, tea, and juice.'

Front

What is the correct punctuation for a complete sentence?

Back

A complete sentence must end with a period (.), exclamation mark (!), or question mark (?). Example: 'She loves reading.'

Front

How do you punctuate a direct address in a sentence?

Back

Use a comma to separate the name or title of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence. Example: 'Thank you, Sarah.'

Front

What is the rule for punctuating introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause. Example: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

Front

When should you use a comma in compound sentences?

Back

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) that connects two independent clauses. Example: 'I wanted to go, but it was raining.'

Front

What is the function of a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) connects closely related independent clauses without a conjunction. Example: 'I have a big test tomorrow; I can’t go out tonight.'

Front

How do you punctuate a quote within a sentence?

Back

Use quotation marks to enclose the quoted material and place punctuation inside the quotation marks. Example: She said, 'I will be there soon.'

Front

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

Back

'Its' is a possessive pronoun meaning 'belonging to it,' while 'it's' is a contraction for 'it is' or 'it has.' Example: 'The dog wagged its tail.' vs. 'It's a sunny day.'

Front

When should you use an apostrophe?

Back

Use an apostrophe to indicate possession or in contractions. Example: 'That is Sarah's book.' or 'It's going to rain.'