Commas, Ellipses and Dashes

Front

What is a comma?

Back

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 before a conjunction?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an ellipsis?

Back

An ellipsis (...) is a series of three dots used to indicate the omission of words or a pause in speech.

Front

When should you use ellipses?

Back

Use ellipses to show that a thought is incomplete or to indicate a pause in dialogue.

Front

What is a dash?

Back

A dash (—) is a punctuation mark used to create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off information.

Front

How do you use a dash in a sentence?

Back

Use a dash to add emphasis or to insert additional information that is not essential to the main point.

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a dash?

Back

A comma indicates a brief pause, while a dash indicates a stronger break or interruption in thought.

Front

How do you punctuate a direct address?

Back

Use a comma to separate the name of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often requiring a comma before the conjunction.

Front

When should you use a comma in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a list of three or more items.