CH13 - Punctuation Flashcards
What is the main function of punctuation?
To separate phrases and clauses into meaningful units of information.
What punctuation mark is used to indicate a 1 second pause?
Comma
What punctuation mark is used to indicate a 2 second pause?
Semicolon
What punctuation mark is used to indicate a 3 second pause?
Colon
What punctuation mark is used to indicate a 4 second pause?
Period
True or False: A comma should be used to separate independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction.
True
Comma Rule #1 states to introduce the subject with a comma if it is not the _______ word/phrase in the sentence.
first
What is the purpose of the ‘bracket test’ in Comma Rule #2?
To determine if an interrupting phrase is non-essential and requires commas.
What is the Oxford Comma?
A comma placed before the ‘and’ in a list of three or more items.
What is the function of a semicolon in linking independent clauses?
To join closely related independent clauses into one sentence.
Semicolon Rule #2 involves using a semicolon with _______ words.
transition
True or False: A semicolon can be used to introduce a phrase or fragment.
False
What is a common mistake that leads to a comma splice?
Using a comma instead of a semicolon to link two independent clauses.
When should a semicolon be used in a complex list?
To separate items where one or more items have internal punctuation.
Provide an example of a coordinating conjunction.
For, and, nor, but, or, yet, so
Identify the error: ‘The main thing that you must be sure to remember about the magnificent Chinese pandas of the southwest, is that they can be dangerous.’
Incorrect use of a comma before ‘is’.
What are the three main functions of a semicolon?
- Join closely related independent clauses
- Link sentences with transition words
- Separate items in a complex list
What is the consequence of punctuation errors in legal writing?
They can have real-world costs and consequences.
What is the effect of a misplaced comma in the sentence ‘Let’s eat, grandma!’ versus ‘Let’s eat grandma!’?
It changes the meaning drastically, indicating whether to eat grandma or to invite her to eat.
Fill in the blank: Commas are used to indicate that a _______ sentence element follows the comma.
non-essential
What is the effect of punctuation on the clarity of communication?
It can confuse readers and change the intended message.
What is the function of a semicolon in a bi-fold door analogy?
It joins two complete door panels that each have their own frame together as one.
What is a comma splice?
Using a comma instead of a semicolon to link two independent clauses.
Semicolon Rule #3 states that a semicolon is used to separate items in a complex list when:
One or more of the items have internal punctuation.
Provide an example of a correct use of a semicolon in a complex list.
The role of the vice-president will be to enhance the university’s external relations; strengthen its relationship with alumni, donors, and community leaders; and implement fundraising programs.
What is the purpose of a colon in writing?
To introduce amplification in the form of an example, explanation, quotation, summary, or list.
Where should a colon be placed in a sentence?
Where the sentence could come to a complete stop.
Give an example of amplification using a colon.
The hurricane lashed the coastal community: within two hours, every tree on the waterfront had been blown down.
What should precede a colon when introducing a list, example, or quotation?
A complete sentence.
True or False: A colon can be used if the clause before it cannot end in a period.
False.
What are the key takeaways regarding proper punctuation?
Proper punctuation is essential when conveying meaning in writing.
List the different functions of commas.
- Introduce the subject of a sentence
- Interrupt the subject and verb
- Separate a list of three or more items
- Connect independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction
- Indicate non-essential elements in a sentence.
List the three functions of semicolons.
- Join closely related independent sentences
- Link two sentences with a transition word
- Separate items in a complex list.
What should follow a colon in a sentence?
It can be a fragment or list; it does not have to be a complete sentence.
