Commas!

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, and to 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 because it has a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction (like 'because', 'although').

Front

How do commas help avoid confusion in sentences?

Back

Commas help clarify meaning by separating ideas or elements, preventing misreading or ambiguity.

Front

What is an example of a sentence that changes meaning with and without a comma?

Back

"Let's eat, grandma!" vs. "Let's eat grandma!" The first invites grandma to eat, while the second suggests eating grandma.

Front

When listing three or more items, where should commas be placed?

Back

Commas should be placed between each item in the list, except for the last item, which may be preceded by 'and' or 'or'.

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. Its use can clarify meaning.

Front

Should a comma be used after introductory phrases?

Back

Yes, a comma should be used after introductory phrases or clauses to separate them from the main clause.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction.