4 Punctuation Free Online FlashCards

How do commas separate items in a series?

Use commas to separate items in a series. In common U.S. English, use the serial comma before the final “and” consistently unless a style guide says otherwise.

When should an introductory clause or phrase be followed by a comma?

Use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase. Example: “When the rain stopped, we went outside.”

How do you punctuate two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction?

Use a comma between independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction such as “and,” “but,” or “so.” Example: “The road was icy, so we drove slowly.”

How can commas show that information is nonessential?

Set off nonessential information with commas because it can be removed without changing the sentence’s essential meaning. Do not set off information needed to identify the noun.

What is a comma splice?

A comma splice occurs when a comma alone joins two complete sentences. Join them with a coordinating conjunction or use a semicolon instead.

Should a comma separate a subject from its verb?

Do not put a comma between a subject and its verb, even when other words come between them.

When should commas separate adjectives before a noun?

Use commas between coordinate adjectives: adjectives that describe the noun equally and can be joined by “and.” Example: “a cold, windy day.”

How do apostrophe forms differ for singular and plural possession?

Use ’s for a singular possessive and an irregular plural possessive; use an apostrophe after the s for a plural possessive ending in s. Do not use apostrophes to form ordinary plurals.

Where does the apostrophe go in a contraction?

In a contraction, place the apostrophe where letters have been omitted. For example, “can’t” means “cannot,” and “we’re” means “we are.”

What is the difference between “it’s” and “its”?

“It’s” means “it is” or “it has.” “Its” is possessive and means “belonging to it.”

How are exact words quoted, and where do commas and periods go in U.S. usage?

Use quotation marks around exact spoken or written words. In standard U.S. usage, commas and periods generally go inside closing quotation marks.

What can a colon introduce, and what should usually precede it?

A colon introduces a list, explanation, example, or quotation. Usually, the words before it should form a complete sentence.