Comma Review

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma is a punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should you use a comma in a direct quotation?

Back

Use a comma to separate the introductory phrase from the quotation, as in: He said, "Hello."

Front

What is the rule for using commas with coordinating conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

How do you use commas in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list, such as: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is an introductory clause?

Back

An introductory clause is a group of words that provides background information and is followed by a comma before the main clause.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma before a conjunction when it connects two items in a simple list.

Front

What is a non-essential clause?

Back

A non-essential clause adds extra information to a sentence but can be removed without changing the sentence's meaning.

Front

How do you punctuate a greeting in a letter?

Back

Use a comma after the greeting in a letter, such as: Dear John,

Front

What is the purpose of commas in complex sentences?

Back

Commas help clarify the meaning of complex sentences by separating clauses and phrases.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction.