ACT English Punctuation

Front

What is the purpose of commas in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, separate items in a list, and clarify meaning.

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 the correct punctuation for a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a list, and place a conjunction before the last item.

Front

How do you punctuate a quote within a sentence?

Back

Use a comma before the quote if it is introduced by a phrase like 'he said' or 'she wrote'.

Front

What is the rule for using colons?

Back

Colons are used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation that follows an independent clause.

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces information that follows, while a semicolon connects related independent clauses.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a parenthetical element?

Back

Use commas to set off parenthetical elements that add information but are not essential to the sentence.

Front

What is the function of dashes in a sentence?

Back

Dashes are used to create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off additional information.