ACT Practice - Punctuation

Front

What is the purpose of commas in a list?

Back

Commas are used to separate items in a list to clarify meaning and improve readability.

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

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

Front

What is the function of a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon connects closely related independent clauses and can also separate items in a complex list.

Front

How do you punctuate direct quotations?

Back

Direct quotations should be enclosed in quotation marks, and punctuation typically goes inside the quotation marks.

Front

What is the rule for using apostrophes in contractions?

Back

Apostrophes are used to indicate omitted letters in contractions, such as 'don't' for 'do not'.

Front

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

Back

'Its' is a possessive pronoun, while 'it's' is a contraction for 'it is'.

Front

When should you use a dash?

Back

Dashes are used to create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off additional information.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate an introductory phrase?

Back

An introductory phrase should be followed by a comma to separate it from the main clause.

Front

How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence should be punctuated with a comma before the coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Front

What is the purpose of parentheses in writing?

Back

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