Commas & Semicolons Quiz

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a comma?

• She wanted spinach, carrots and, peas in her salad.

• Before we leave, remember to check the doors.

• After the movie, we will go to, the restaurant.

• He enjoys playing soccer, and to read books.

Identify the sentence that correctly uses a semicolon.

• She loves to read; she finds it relaxing.

• It was raining; hard.

• He wanted to go; however, he was too tired.

• A) and C) are correct.

Which of the following is an example of a comma splice?

• She runs every morning, she finds it invigorating.

• I enjoy painting, my sister likes drawing.

• They wanted to go to the beach, but it was raining.

• A) and B) are examples of comma splices.

Select the sentence that correctly uses commas in a series.

• I need you to buy eggs, milk, bread, and cheese.

• We will visit Paris, France, Rome, Italy, and London, England.

• Both A) and B) are correct.

• Neither A) nor B) are correct.

Choose the sentence where a semicolon is used correctly to connect independent clauses.

• The cat slept through the storm; the dog was restless.

• She wanted to go swimming; but the pool was closed.

• It's nearly half past five; we cannot reach there on time.

• A) and C) are correct.

Answer explanation

Although these are correct, please DO NOT OVER USE.

-USE WHEN two clauses are very much related to each other.

Which sentence correctly differentiates between the use of a comma and a semicolon?

• I like to read, I also enjoy writing; however, I rarely have time for either.

• I like to read; I also enjoy writing, however, I rarely have time for either.

• I like to read; I also enjoy writing. However, I rarely have time for either.

• I like to read, I also enjoy writing, however; I rarely have time for either.

Answer explanation

I like to read; I also enjoy writing. However, I rarely have time for either.

Semi-colon- two clauses connected

Comma- However, (this word connects back to the last sentence and see the rule with "however,"

Ind. However,....ind..

or ind; however, ind...

Identify the sentence that incorrectly uses a comma.

• On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed.

• He is, without doubt, one of the best players on the team.

• She can speak many languages, including French, Spanish, and German.

• We decided to go to the beach, although it was raining.

Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon to enhance clarity by controlling the pace of the sentence?

• The dinner menu featured the chef's specialties: salmon; beef Wellington; roasted duck.

• She has lived in Paris; London; and Rome.

• He was late; therefore, he missed the beginning of the lecture.

• I have a big test tomorrow, so I can't go out tonight.

Choose the sentence that correctly avoids a comma splice.

• She didn't see the stop sign, she ran right through it.

• He loves to travel, his sister prefers to stay at home.

• It was getting late, so they decided to head back home.

• The museum was closed, we went to the park instead.

Which of the following sentences correctly uses commas for additional information?

• My brother, who is an engineer, just got a new job.

• The car that is parked outside, is mine.

• The book, that I borrowed from you, is excellent.

• My friend, has always been afraid of heights.

Answer explanation

Nonessential clauses vs. essential clauses: Do not separate essential clauses from the rest of the sentence with commas.

-Note that essential clauses often begin with “that.”

● Example: The book that I borrowed from you is excellent. [“That I borrowed from you” is an essential clause.

Therefore, no commas are needed.]

Example: Apples, which are my favorite fruit, are the main ingredient in this recipe. [“Which are my favorite fruit” is a nonessential clause, so it is set apart from the rest of the sentence with commas.