Commas and Semicolons

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 do we use commas in a list?

Back

Commas are used to separate items in a list, for example: "I bought apples, oranges, and bananas."

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon is a punctuation mark that connects closely related ideas in a sentence.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a comma?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related, for example: "I like tea; she prefers coffee."

Front

What is the rule for using commas with conjunctions?

Back

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

Front

How do you use commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause, for example: "After dinner, we went for a walk."

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence because it has a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence; it needs an independent clause to complete its meaning.

Front

How do you punctuate dates?

Back

When writing dates, use a comma after the day and year, for example: "July 4, 1776, was a significant day."

Front

What is the correct way to write a sentence with a direct address?

Back

Use commas to set off the name of the person being addressed, for example: "Can you help me, Sarah?"