Commas, Semicolons, & Colons

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When do we use a semicolon?

Back

To connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

A punctuation mark used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

What does FANBOYS stand for?

Back

For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So - coordinating conjunctions used to connect independent clauses.

Front

How do you use a comma in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a list, e.g., apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

To clarify that the last two items are separate, e.g., I want apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma when connecting two independent clauses without a conjunction.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

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 group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and depends on an independent clause.

Front

How do you use a semicolon in a sentence?

Back

Use a semicolon to link two related independent clauses, e.g., I like tea; my friend prefers coffee.