Commas

Front

What is the purpose of commas in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, separate items in a list, and clarify meaning.

Front

When should you use a comma in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list, placing a comma before the conjunction (and, or) in a series.

Front

Correct the sentence: Everyone has lots of jelly beans cupcakes and cookies.

Back

Everyone has lots of jelly beans, cupcakes, and cookies.

Front

Is a comma needed before 'and' in the sentence: Harold is an excellent singer and he can dance?

Back

Yes, a comma is needed before 'and' to separate two independent clauses.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often requiring a comma before the conjunction.

Front

Correct the sentence: The dogs, and cats ate bowls of pet food at the shelter.

Back

The dogs and cats ate bowls of pet food at the shelter.

Front

When is it appropriate to use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

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

Front

Correct the sentence: As I rode my bike down the street I saw my friend riding her scooter.

Back

As I rode my bike down the street, I saw my friend riding her scooter.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with coordinating conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

Correct the sentence: Harold is going to the prom with Kendra or Olivia.

Back

No comma needed.