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

Provide an example of a sentence that correctly uses commas in a list.

Back

I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

You should use a comma after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause.

Front

Is a comma needed in the sentence: 'Because I was tired I went to bed early'?

Back

Yes, a comma is needed after 'tired': 'Because I was tired, I went to bed early.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more coordinate adjectives that describe the same noun.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that uses a comma to separate adjectives.

Back

The tall, dark, and handsome man walked into the room.

Front

When is it appropriate to use commas with direct address?

Back

Use commas to separate the name of a person being addressed from the rest of the sentence.