Semicolons, colons, and commas - Duncan

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 colon?

Back

A colon (:) is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation that follows an independent clause.

Front

What is the primary use of a comma?

Back

A comma (,) is used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, or to set off clauses.

Front

How do you correctly punctuate independent clauses?

Back

Independent clauses can be connected with a semicolon, a comma followed by a conjunction, or a period.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a list, and use 'and' before the last item.

Front

What is an example of a correctly punctuated sentence with a semicolon?

Back

Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk; it was raining outside.'

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a transitional phrase?

Back

Use a comma before and after the transitional phrase, e.g., 'We were tired; however, we continued working.'

Front

What punctuation is used before a list?

Back

A colon is used before a list when it follows an independent clause.

Front

When is no punctuation needed in a sentence?

Back

No punctuation is needed when the sentence is complete and does not require separation of clauses or items.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate city and state names?

Back

Use a comma to separate the city from the state, e.g., 'I live in San Francisco, California.'