Commas, Semicolons; Colons: Punctuation Review

Rule 1 Use a comma before a conjunction to separate two independent clauses (simple sentences) in a compound sentence Coordinating Conjunctions – AND, BUT, FOR, NOR, SO, YET

Rule 2 and Rule 3 Use commas to separate three or more words, phrases, or clauses in a series Adjectives of EQUAL rank. Do not use them to separate adjectives that must stay in a specific order.

Rule 4 Use a comma after an introductory word, phrase, or clause. (remember the phrases and clauses info???)

Rule 5 A parenthetical expression consists of one or more words that, in a sense, interrupt the flow of a sentence. Use a comma to set off the parenthetical expression.

Rule 6 An essential phrase or clause is necessary to the meaning of a sentence. It helps describe or identify the person or object the sentence is about. Do NOT use a comma to set off essential expressions. Non-essential expressions do not change the meaning of a sentence. Use commas to set off non-essential expressions.

Semicolon; Rule 1and 2 Use a semicolon between two independent clauses of a compound sentence when they are not joined by a coordinate conjunction. Use one between the two independent clauses of a compound sentence joined by a coordinate conjunction if commas are also used in the sentence – with an introductory phrase or clause

Rule 3 Use a semicolon before a conjunctive adverb that introduces a clause in a compound sentence Common conjunctive adverbs are: therefore, nevertheless, moreover, consequently, furthermore, besides, then, thus, instead, accordingly, otherwise, so, yet, still, hence, however.

Rule 3 part 2 Explanatory expressions (for example, namely, on the contrary, in fact, that is, on the other hand) are used similarly as conjunctive adverbs with a semicolon before them and a comma following.

Rule 4 Rule 5 Use a semicolon to separate phrases or clauses of equal rank which contain commas. The ; in such sentences brings clarity of meaning. Place a semicolon outside of quotation marks.

Colon Rule 1 Use a colon before a listed items that are introduced by such words as the following, as follows, thus, and these; by a number; or my any other expression that “points out” Use NO colon before a list of predicate nominatives, direct objectives, or objects of a preposition. A colon should not hinder the natural flow of the sentence.

Rule 2 – 3 - 4 Use a colon to separate two complete sentences when the second sentence explains, amplifies, or illustrates the first. Use a colon to introduce a long or formal quotation (Block quote) Use a comma between sets of quotes when one is the title and one is evidence.