commas, dashes, parentheses

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should commas be used in a list?

Back

Commas should be used to separate three or more items in a list.

Front

What is a dash?

Back

A punctuation mark used to indicate a break in thought or to set off additional information.

Front

How do dashes differ from commas?

Back

Dashes indicate a more sudden and stronger interruption in thought compared to commas.

Front

What is the purpose of parentheses?

Back

Parentheses are used to include additional information or clarifications that are not essential to the main point.

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

A comma should be used before 'and' in a list if it helps clarify the items being listed (Oxford comma).

Front

What is an example of a sentence using commas correctly?

Back

Chimps, like people, sleep all night.

Front

What is an example of a sentence using dashes correctly?

Back

My little brother--who annoys everyone--will not be there tonight.

Front

What is the function of commas in complex sentences?

Back

Commas are used to separate independent clauses when they are joined by conjunctions.

Front

What is an example of incorrect comma usage?

Back

Jane observed chimps using objects sticks, and rocks as tools.