Punctuation Placement

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?

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

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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 clarify the separation of the last two items (Oxford comma).

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

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How do you punctuate direct quotations?

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Direct quotations should be enclosed in quotation marks, and punctuation marks such as commas and periods should be placed inside the quotation marks.

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What is a run-on sentence?

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A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions.

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What is the function of a semicolon?

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

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When should you use a colon?

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

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What is the difference between a period and a question mark?

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A period indicates the end of a declarative sentence, while a question mark indicates the end of an interrogative sentence.

Front

What is an introductory phrase?

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An introductory phrase is a group of words that provides context for the main part of the sentence and is usually followed by a comma.