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, question marks, and exclamation points.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, and to set off clauses or phrases.

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

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A comma should be used before 'and' in a list of three or more items to separate the last item from the rest, known as the Oxford comma.

Front

What is an example of a correctly punctuated list?

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I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

How do you use commas in compound sentences?

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In compound sentences, a comma is used before the conjunction (like 'and', 'but', or 'or') that connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an independent clause?

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

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate direct address?

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When directly addressing someone, use a comma to separate the name from the rest of the sentence. Example: 'Amanda, can you help me?'

Front

What is the rule for using apostrophes with plural nouns?

Back

Apostrophes are used to show possession. For plural nouns that do not end in 's', add 's (e.g., children's toys). For plural nouns that do end in 's', add only an apostrophe (e.g., teachers' lounge).

Front

What is the difference between 'its' and 'it's'?

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'Its' is a possessive pronoun meaning 'belonging to it', while 'it's' is a contraction for 'it is' or 'it has'.

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

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