Mastering Punctuation: Commas, Semicolons, and Colons

This video tutorial covers the ACT English section, focusing on punctuation rules for commas, semicolons, and colons. It explains three comma rules, the semicolon rule, and the colon rule, providing examples and practice questions to help students master these concepts, which account for 30% of the ACT English section.

What is the primary function of a comma when used with conjunctions in compound sentences?

• To indicate an omission

• To separate items in a list

• To link two independent clauses with a conjunction

• To introduce quotations

Which of the following is NOT a conjunction used with commas in compound sentences?

• But

• Or

• Because

• And

What is the rule for using commas with fanboys?

• Use a comma only if both clauses are independent

• Use a comma after the conjunction

• Use a comma before the conjunction in all cases

• Never use a comma with fanboys

What must an introductory dependent clause start with?

• An adjective

• A subordinating conjunction

• A conjunction

• A verb

In which scenario should you NOT use a comma after an introductory phrase?

• When the phrase is followed by an independent clause

• When the phrase is a dependent clause

• When the introductory phrase is very short

• When the phrase can stand alone

What punctuation is used to add non-essential information to a sentence?

• Dash

• Semicolon

• Comma

• Colon

Which of the following is an example of an interrupter?

• In the morning,

• Because she was late,

• Which was unnecessary,

• However,

What is required on both sides of a semicolon?

• A conjunction

• An independent clause

• A transitional phrase

• A dependent clause

What can follow a colon?

• Only a complete sentence

• Only a dependent clause

• Only a single word

• A list, a quotation, or an explanation

Which option correctly uses a colon?

• They arrived at the conclusion: it was too late.

• She was planning: to go to the store.

• Remember: you need to call me.

• He said: he would come.