Punctuation Quiz

When should a comma be used in a sentence?

• To separate items in a list, to separate independent clauses when joined by a coordinating conjunction, and after introductory phrases or clauses.

• To confuse the reader

• To emphasize a point

• To separate vowels in a word

What is the purpose of using a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

• To separate independent clauses

• To indicate a pause in the sentence

• To emphasize the conjunction

• To connect dependent clauses

When is it appropriate to use a semicolon in a sentence?

• To end a sentence

• To separate two independent clauses or to separate items in a list

• To indicate possession

• To connect a dependent clause with an independent clause

Can a semicolon be used to separate items in a list?

• No

• Only in certain cases

• Yes

• Maybe

How should quotation marks be used in direct speech?

• Quotation marks should be used to enclose the exact words spoken by someone.

• Quotation marks should be used to indicate the end of a sentence.

• Quotation marks should be used to enclose the speaker's thoughts.

• Quotation marks should be used to highlight important words in a sentence.

What is the correct way to punctuate a quote within a quote?

• Use double quotation marks for the inner quote.

• Use parentheses for the inner quote.

• Do not punctuate the inner quote.

• Use single quotation marks for the inner quote.

When should an apostrophe be used in a contraction?

• To emphasize a word

• To separate syllables

• To indicate possession

• To indicate where letters have been omitted

What is the role of an apostrophe in showing possession?

• Indicates a plural noun

• Shows possession

• Emphasizes the importance of a word

• Separates two independent clauses

In what instances should a colon be used in a sentence?

• To introduce a list, separate hours and minutes, introduce a quote or explanation, and separate titles and subtitles.

• To separate a subject and a verb

• To connect two independent clauses

• To indicate possession

How is a colon used to introduce a list or an explanation?

• To indicate a question

• To separate two independent clauses

• To introduce a list or an explanation

• To show emphasis