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

What is a series in writing, and how do commas function in it?

Back

A series is a list of three or more items. Commas are used to separate the items in the series, with an optional comma before the conjunction (Oxford comma).

Front

How do commas help in clarifying meaning in sentences?

Back

Commas can change the meaning of a sentence by indicating pauses or separating elements, which helps to avoid confusion.

Front

What is an example of a sentence that correctly uses commas in a series?

Back

I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is a non-essential clause, and how is it punctuated?

Back

A non-essential clause provides additional information but is not necessary for the sentence's meaning. It is set off by commas.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence with a non-essential clause.

Back

My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting us next week.

Front

When should you not use a comma in a sentence?

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 the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

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

Front

Give an example of a sentence with an introductory phrase.

Back

After dinner, we went for a walk.