Comma Rules Showdown

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

A comma should be used 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, 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 usually begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Front

When should commas be used in a list?

Back

Commas should be used to separate three or more items in a list.

Front

What is a non-essential clause?

Back

A non-essential clause provides additional information but can be removed without changing the main meaning of the sentence.

Front

How do you punctuate a non-essential clause?

Back

Non-essential clauses should be set off by commas.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

A comma should be used after an introductory phrase or clause.

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'.

Front

When is it correct to use a comma with direct address?

Back

A comma should be used to separate the name of a person being addressed from the rest of the sentence.