Commas and Semicolons

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 'and'?

Back

Use a comma before 'and' when connecting two independent clauses in a compound sentence.

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon is a punctuation mark (;) used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a comma?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related but not joined by a conjunction.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

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

Front

How do you use commas in a list?

Back

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

Front

What punctuation should be used to connect two independent clauses?

Back

You can use a semicolon or a comma followed by a conjunction (like 'and' or 'but').

Front

When is it appropriate to use no punctuation?

Back

Use no punctuation when the clauses are closely related and do not require a pause.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause that precedes the main clause.