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

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.

Front

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

Back

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).

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

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

Front

How do you punctuate direct quotations?

Back

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

Front

What is a run-on sentence?

Back

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

Front

What is the function of a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

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

Front

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

Back

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?

Back

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.