Commas, Semicolons, Colons, hyphens, 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 semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

What is the purpose of a colon?

Back

A colon (:) is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

What is a hyphen?

Back

A hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark used to join words or parts of words, such as in compound adjectives.

Front

What is a dash?

Back

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

Front

How do you use a comma before a subordinate clause?

Back

Insert a comma before a subordinate clause when it begins a sentence.

Front

When is no comma needed in a sentence?

Back

No comma is needed when the subordinate clause follows the main clause.

Front

What is an example of using a semicolon correctly?

Back

Example: I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.

Front

How do you punctuate a list with a colon?

Back

Use a colon before the list: Example: You need the following items: bread, milk, and eggs.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a series?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a series: Example: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.