TEST: Apostrophes, Colons, Semicolons, Hyphens & Dashes

Front

What is an apostrophe used for?

Back

An apostrophe is used to show possession (e.g., 'Sarah's book') or to indicate omitted letters in contractions (e.g., 'can't' for 'cannot').

Front

What is a colon used for?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation (e.g., 'You need the following: bread, milk, and eggs.').

Front

What is a semicolon used for?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses (e.g., 'I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.').

Front

What is a hyphen used for?

Back

A hyphen is used to join words or parts of words (e.g., 'mother-in-law' or 'twenty-one').

Front

What is a dash used for?

Back

A dash is used to create a strong break in a sentence or to set off information (e.g., 'I was going to the store—if I can find my keys!').

Front

How do you make a noun possessive?

Back

To make a noun possessive, add an apostrophe and 's' (e.g., 'the dog's leash'). If the noun is plural and ends in 's', just add an apostrophe (e.g., 'the dogs' park').

Front

What is the correct contraction for 'could not'?

Back

The correct contraction for 'could not' is 'couldn't'.

Front

When do you use a semicolon instead of a period?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect two related independent clauses without a conjunction (e.g., 'I like tea; she likes coffee.').

Front

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

Back

'Its' is a possessive pronoun (e.g., 'The cat licked its paw.'); 'it's' is a contraction for 'it is' (e.g., 'It's raining outside.').

Front

How do you punctuate a list in a sentence?

Back

Use a colon before the list if the sentence introduces it (e.g., 'You need the following: a pen, paper, and a ruler.').