Punctuation Usage

What is the primary purpose of using a comma in a sentence?

• To separate items in a list, connect independent clauses in a compound sentence, and set off introductory elements.

• To indicate possession

• To connect a subject and a verb

• To add emphasis to a word

When should a semicolon be used in a sentence?

• To indicate possession in a sentence

• To connect a dependent clause to an independent clause

• To separate a subject from its verb in a sentence

• To separate two independent clauses in a sentence.

What is the function of a colon in writing?

• To end a sentence

• To show possession

• To connect two independent clauses

• To introduce a list, explanation, or example

In which situations should a period be used?

• At the beginning of a sentence

• In a quotation

• After a question mark

• At the end of a declarative sentence, an imperative sentence, or an indirect question.

What is the difference between a hyphen and an en dash?

• The en dash is shorter and is used to join words or parts of words.

• The hyphen is longer and is used to indicate a range or connection between two things.

• The hyphen is shorter and is used to join words or parts of words. The en dash is slightly longer and is used to indicate a range or connection between two things.

• The hyphen and en dash are the same and can be used interchangeably.

When is it appropriate to use an em dash in a sentence?

• To indicate a sudden break in thought or to set off a parenthetical statement.

• To emphasize a word or phrase

• To connect two unrelated ideas

• To indicate the end of a sentence

What does an ellipsis indicate in writing?

• A quotation

• A pause or omission

• A hyphen

• A question mark

Provide an example of using a comma to separate items in a list.

• Apples; oranges; bananas

• Apples, oranges, bananas

• Apples / oranges / bananas

• Apples - oranges - bananas

Can a semicolon be used to connect two independent clauses?

• No

• Maybe

• Yes

• Only in certain cases

How can a colon be used to introduce a list?

• By placing it at the end of the introductory phrase or sentence, followed by the list of items

• By using it to separate the items with commas

• By placing it in the middle of the list items

• By using it at the beginning of each list item