Comma, semicolon, and sentence boundary rules tested on the SAT writing and language section, distinct from the general grammar rules deck.
32 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What error occurs when two independent clauses are joined by only a comma?
- Comma splice
- How should two independent clauses be joined correctly?
- With a semicolon, a period, a dash, or a coordinating conjunction with a comma
- When do you use a comma before a coordinating conjunction in a sentence?
- When it joins two independent clauses (compound sentence)
- Do you use a comma after a short introductory phrase?
- Only if the phrase is longer than about 4 words or if omitting it creates confusion
- What is the purpose of a comma in a series of three or more items?
- To separate each item clearly, including one before the conjunction (serial comma)
- What is an appositive and how do you punctuate it?
- A noun or noun phrase that renames another noun; set off with commas if non-restrictive
- What is the difference between restrictive and non-restrictive clauses?
- Restrictive clauses limit the meaning and need no commas; non-restrictive add extra info and need commas
- When should you use a semicolon instead of a comma?
- To join two closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex series
- Can you use a semicolon between an independent clause and a dependent clause?
- No, only between two independent clauses
- What punctuation mark introduces a list or explanation after an independent clause?
- A colon
- Can you use a colon after a verb or preposition?
- No, a colon must follow an independent clause
- What is a sentence fragment?
- An incomplete sentence that lacks a subject, verb, or both, or a dependent clause standing alone
- What is a run-on sentence?
- Two or more independent clauses joined incorrectly without proper punctuation or conjunction
- How do you form the possessive of a singular noun?
- Add an apostrophe and the letter s ('s)
- How do you form the possessive of a plural noun ending in s?
- Add only an apostrophe after the s (')