Puctuation Flashcards
Period.
End of a Sentence: The primary function of a period is to mark the end of a declarative sentence or statement. It signals to the reader that the sentence has come to a complete stop.
Example: “She went to the store.”
Abbreviations: Periods are used in abbreviations to indicate missing letters or to separate initials.
Example: “Dr. Smith” (abbreviation for “Doctor”)
Comma,
Separating Items in a List: Commas are used to separate items in a list or series. They provide clarity and structure to the list.
Example: “I need to buy apples, oranges, and bananas.”
Introducing Clauses: Commas are used to separate clauses in a sentence, such as introductory phrases or dependent clauses.
Example: “After the movie, we went out for dinner.”
Joining Independent Clauses: Commas can be used with coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) to join two independent clauses.
Example: “She studied hard for the exam, but she didn’t perform well.”
Before Direct Quotations: Commas are used to introduce or separate direct quotations from the rest of the sentence.
Example: He said, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Question mark ?
Used at the end of interrogative sentences or direct questions.
Example: “Where is the nearest gas station?”
Exclamation mark !
Used to express strong emotions or emphasis.
Example: “Congratulations on your promotion!”
Colon:
Used to introduce a list, explanation, or quotation.
Example: “Please bring the following items: bread, milk, and eggs.”
Semicolon;
Connecting Independent Clauses: One of the main uses of a semicolon is to connect two closely related independent clauses (complete sentences) that are closely related in meaning. Unlike a period, which indicates a full stop, a semicolon indicates a stronger connection between the clauses.
Example: “She studied hard for the exam; however, she didn’t perform well.”
Separating Items in a List with Commas: When items in a list contain commas themselves, a semicolon can be used to separate the items to avoid confusion.
Example: “The conference attendees included John Smith, CEO; Mary Johnson, CFO; and James Doe, COO.”
Joining Independent Clauses with Conjunctive Adverbs: A semicolon can also be used before conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, consequently, moreover, etc.) when joining two independent clauses.
Example: “The weather was terrible; however, they decided to continue their journey.”
Linking Parallel Ideas: In longer sentences where multiple ideas are presented, a semicolon can be used to link parallel ideas or clauses.
Example: “She enjoys reading classic literature; he prefers modern fiction.”
Clarifying Complex Lists: In technical or formal writing, a semicolon can be used to clarify complex lists or series, especially when the items themselves contain commas.
Example: “The project requires a detailed understanding of market trends, consumer behavior, and economic indicators; extensive research; and effective communication skills.”
“Quotation marks”
Used for direct speech, dialogue, or to enclose titles of short works, which may be present in formal writing, especially in academic or literary contexts.
