Commas and Semicolons

Front

What is the primary function of a comma in a sentence?

Back

To indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, separate items in a list, or set off non-essential information.

Front

When should a semicolon be used instead of a comma?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses that are not joined by a conjunction.

Front

Provide an example of a correctly punctuated list using commas and semicolons.

Back

Power generated by Hoover Dam is sent to Los Angeles, California; Phoenix, Arizona; and Las Vegas, Nevada.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction or a semicolon.

Front

Identify the error in this sentence: 'I like apples oranges and bananas.'

Back

Missing commas: 'I like apples, oranges, and bananas.'

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

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence because it expresses a complete thought.

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

What is the difference between restrictive and non-restrictive clauses?

Back

Restrictive clauses are essential to the meaning of a sentence and are not set off by commas; non-restrictive clauses add extra information and are set off by commas.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that uses a semicolon correctly.

Back

I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.