Using Commas Pretest

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to separate items in a list, to set off introductory phrases, and to clarify meaning in sentences.

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

A comma should be used before 'and' in a list of three or more items (e.g., apples, oranges, and bananas).

Front

What is an introductory phrase?

Back

An introductory phrase is a group of words that comes before the main clause of a sentence and provides context or background information.

Front

How do you correctly punctuate a sentence with an introductory phrase?

Back

You should place a comma after the introductory phrase (e.g., After dinner, we went for a walk).

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often requiring a comma before the conjunction.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a series?

Back

In a series of three or more items, commas are used to separate each item, including before the conjunction (e.g., I bought apples, oranges, and bananas).

Front

What is a common mistake when using commas in a series?

Back

A common mistake is to omit the comma before 'and' in a list of three or more items (e.g., I like apples, oranges and bananas).

Front

How do you use commas with adjectives?

Back

When two or more adjectives equally describe a noun, they should be separated by commas (e.g., It was a long, tiring day).

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence and often begins with a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although).

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a dependent clause?

Back

If the dependent clause comes first, use a comma before the main clause (e.g., Because it was raining, we stayed inside).