Commas, Dashes, Ellipses

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 a dash?

Back

A punctuation mark used to create a strong break in the structure of a sentence, often to set off additional information.

Front

How do you use dashes in a sentence?

Back

Dashes can be used to set off non-essential information or to create emphasis.

Front

What is an ellipsis?

Back

A series of three dots (...) used to indicate the omission of words or a pause in thought.

Front

When should you use an ellipsis?

Back

Use an ellipsis to show that part of a quote has been omitted or to indicate a trailing off in thought.

Front

What is the difference between a dash and a hyphen?

Back

A dash (—) is longer than a hyphen (-) and is used to create breaks in sentences, while a hyphen is used to connect words or parts of words.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using dashes correctly.

Back

My favorite hobbies—reading, hiking, and painting—keep me happy.

Front

What punctuation should be used to set off a phrase that adds extra information?

Back

Dashes are often used to set off phrases that add extra information.

Front

How can ellipses change the meaning of a quote?

Back

Ellipses can suggest that the speaker's thought is incomplete or that there is more to the story.