Commas, Parenthesis, and Dashes

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to separate items in a list, to set off introductory elements, and to separate independent clauses when joined by conjunctions.

Front

When should you use parentheses in writing?

Back

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

Front

What is the function of a dash in a sentence?

Back

Dashes are used to create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off additional information.

Front

How do you correctly punctuate a sentence with a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in the list, and place a conjunction before the last item.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate a sentence with a quote?

Back

Place a comma before the opening quotation mark if the quote is preceded by a statement.

Front

How do you use commas in dates?

Back

Use a comma to separate the day from the year and to separate the year from the rest of the sentence.

Front

What is an example of using a dash for emphasis?

Back

I was going to the store—my favorite place to shop—when I saw the sale.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma before a conjunction if it connects two items in a simple list.

Front

What is the difference between a dash and a hyphen?

Back

A dash (—) is used to create emphasis or indicate a break in thought, while a hyphen (-) is used to connect words or parts of words.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with an abbreviation?

Back

Use parentheses to enclose the abbreviation after the full term, e.g., American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).