Punctuation

Front

What is punctuation?

Back

Punctuation refers to the marks used in writing that help clarify meaning and separate linguistic units. Common punctuation marks include periods, commas, semicolons, colons, and dashes.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma?

Back

A comma is used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, or to set off clauses.

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

What is a colon used for?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation that follows an independent clause.

Front

What is the function of a dash?

Back

A dash is used to create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off additional information.

Front

How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is punctuated with a comma before the coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) that connects the 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

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence because it does not express a complete thought.

Front

How do you use commas in a list?

Back

Commas are used to separate items in a list, placing a comma between each item except for the last one.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects closely related independent clauses, while a colon introduces a list or explanation.