Commas, Colons, and Semicolons

Front

What is a comma?

Back

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 in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list, e.g., apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A punctuation mark (;) used to connect closely related independent clauses.

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

Use a semicolon to link two independent clauses that are closely related, e.g., I like tea; my sister prefers coffee.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

A punctuation mark (:) used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

Use a colon before a list or explanation that follows an independent clause, e.g., You need the following items: a pen, paper, and a ruler.

Front

How do you use commas with conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (and, but, or) when connecting two independent clauses, e.g., I wanted to go; but it was raining.

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a semicolon?

Back

A comma separates items or clauses, while a semicolon connects closely related independent clauses.

Front

Can you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

Yes, use a comma before 'and' in a list (Oxford comma) for clarity, e.g., I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

A group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.