The video tutorial explains the four main rules for using semicolons in English grammar. Rule 1 covers separating clauses in compound sentences without conjunctions. Rule 2 discusses using semicolons in complex series. Rule 3 addresses semicolons in independent clauses containing commas. Rule 4 explains semicolons with conjunctive adverbs. The tutorial also differentiates between colons and semicolons, providing examples for clarity.

What is the primary purpose of a semicolon?

• To join two independent clauses.

• To separate items in a list.

• To indicate a pause longer than a comma.

• To end a sentence.

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a semicolon?

• Mick surfs; and Dug wind surfs.

• Mick surfs; Dug wind surfs.

• Mick surfs, Dug wind surfs.

• Mick surfs: Dug wind surfs.

In which scenario would you use a semicolon instead of a comma?

• To introduce a quote.

• To list items in a simple series.

• To separate two independent clauses without a conjunction.

• To end a declarative sentence.

How should semicolons be used in a complex list?

• To separate simple items.

• To separate items that contain commas.

• To end the list.

• To introduce the list.

Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon in a series?

• The band consists of Bub; the drummer, Slim; the guitarist, and Twigs; the saxophonist.

• The band consists of Bub, the drummer; Slim, the guitarist; and Twigs, the saxophonist.

• The band consists of Bub, the drummer, Slim, the guitarist, and Twigs, the saxophonist.

• The band consists of Bub; the drummer, Slim; the guitarist, Twigs; the saxophonist.

When should a semicolon be used between independent clauses?

• When the clauses are joined by a simple conjunction.

• When the clauses are short.

• When the clauses contain commas and are joined by a conjunction.

• When the clauses are unrelated.

Which of the following sentences uses a semicolon correctly?

• Slim; a good guitarist, leads the band, and Bub, his cousin, plays the drums.

• Slim, a good guitarist, leads the band; and Bub, his cousin, plays the drums.

• Slim, a good guitarist; leads the band, and Bub, his cousin, plays the drums.

• Slim, a good guitarist leads the band; Bub, his cousin plays the drums.

What is a conjunctive adverb?

• A word that connects two clauses with a comma.

• A word that introduces a list.

• A word that ends a sentence.

• A word that connects two independent clauses with a semicolon.

Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon with a conjunctive adverb?

• He has one, therefore; he should not have to race again.

• He has one; therefore, he should not have to race again.

• He has one therefore; he should not have to race again.

• He has one; therefore he should not have to race again.

Which rule applies when using semicolons with parenthetical expressions?

• Use a semicolon after the expression.

• Use a semicolon to end the expression.

• Use a semicolon before the expression.

• Use a semicolon to separate clauses joined by the expression.