Commas, Commas, Commas

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 'and' in a list?

Back

You should use a comma before 'and' in a list when there are three or more items to clarify the separation, known as the Oxford comma.

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in sentences?

Back

Commas help clarify meaning by indicating pauses, separating ideas, and organizing information.

Front

How do you use commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause of the sentence.

Front

What is a non-restrictive clause?

Back

A non-restrictive clause provides additional information but is not essential to the meaning of the sentence and is set off by commas.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma when it separates a subject from its verb or when it separates two items that are closely related.

Front

What is an example of a sentence that needs commas?

Back

Example: "My brother who lives in New York is visiting." (Correct: "My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.")

Front

What is a direct address in a sentence?

Back

A direct address is when you speak directly to someone, and it should be set off by commas. Example: "Let's eat, Grandma!"

Front

How do you use commas in dates?

Back

Use a comma to separate the day from the year in a full date. Example: "July 4, 1776, was a significant day."

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, and a comma is used before the conjunction.