ACT Punctuation Review

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

To indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, separate items in a list, or set off clauses.

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

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

Front

What is the function of a colon in writing?

Back

To introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

Define 'independent clause'.

Back

A group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Front

Explain the difference between 'its' and 'it's'.

Back

'Its' is a possessive pronoun, while 'it's' is a contraction for 'it is'.

Front

What is the role of parentheses in a sentence?

Back

To include additional information or clarification that is not essential to the main point.

Front

When should you use dashes in writing?

Back

To create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off additional information.

Front

What is the rule for using apostrophes with possessive nouns?

Back

Add an apostrophe and 's' for singular nouns (e.g., the dog's bone) and just an apostrophe for plural nouns that already end in 's' (e.g., the dogs' park).

Front

What is a run-on sentence?

Back

A sentence that improperly connects two or more independent clauses without appropriate punctuation.