Using Commas

Front

What is the purpose of using commas 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

How do you punctuate dates correctly?

Back

When writing dates, a comma is used to separate the day from the year, e.g., 'February 4, 1902'.

Front

What is an example of a correctly punctuated sentence with a direct address?

Back

'Yandel, I want to finish our science project.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a list?

Back

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

Front

How do you punctuate a quote followed by a dialogue tag?

Back

Place a comma inside the quotation marks before the dialogue tag, e.g., 'I love to fly,' said the excited young girl.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often requiring a comma before the conjunction.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma to separate a subject from its verb or to separate two items that are closely related.

Front

What is an example of a sentence that incorrectly uses commas?

Back

'They have, strong hearts, long legs, and keen, eyesight.' (Incorrect use of commas)

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or', e.g., 'apples, oranges, and bananas'.