Commas, Dashes, and Parentheses

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma is a punctuation mark (,) used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

You should use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and' or 'but') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is a dash?

Back

A dash (—) is a punctuation mark used to create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off a phrase.

Front

How is a dash different from a comma?

Back

A dash is used for stronger breaks in thought or emphasis, while a comma indicates a softer pause.

Front

What are parentheses used for?

Back

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

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with parentheses?

Back

When using parentheses, the punctuation for the sentence should remain outside the parentheses unless the information inside is a complete sentence.

Front

What is an example of using a comma in a list?

Back

In a list: I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.

Front

What is an example of using a dash for emphasis?

Back

She was determined to win the race—nothing could stop her.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate this sentence: 'My brother who is a chef loves to cook'?

Back

My brother, who is a chef, loves to cook.

Front

When should you use commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more adjectives that equally describe a noun, e.g., 'It was a long, tiring journey.'