E- II.3 Semicolons, colons and commas: review

Semicolons, colons and commas: review

Key Notes:

Purpose: Semicolons are used to link closely related independent clauses (complete sentences) without using a conjunction (like “and” or “but”).
Example: I have a big test tomorrow; I need to study tonight.
Used with Transitional Phrases: Semicolons are also used before words or phrases like however, therefore, for example, in addition, etc., when connecting two independent clauses.
Example: I wanted to go to the beach; however, it started to rain.

Purpose: A colon is used to introduce a list, explanation, or quote.
Lists: Use a colon to introduce a list when the clause before the colon is a complete sentence.
Example: Please bring the following items to class: pencils, notebooks, and a calculator.
Explanation/Clarification: A colon is also used to introduce an explanation or elaboration of what was mentioned before it.
Example: She had one goal in mind: to become a famous artist.
Before a Quote: Colons can introduce direct quotes.
Example: He said: “I will finish my homework tonight.”

Purpose: Commas are the most commonly used punctuation mark, helping to separate elements within a sentence to clarify meaning.
Separating Items in a List: Commas are used to separate items in a series or list.
Example: I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.
Before Coordinating Conjunctions: Commas are used before conjunctions like and, but, or, nor, for, yet, and so when they join independent clauses.
Example: I wanted to go swimming, but it was too cold.
After Introductory Elements: A comma is used after introductory words, phrases, or clauses.
Example: After the meeting, we went to lunch.
With Nonessential Information: Use commas to set off nonessential information or clauses that don’t change the meaning of the sentence.
Example: My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting us next week.

Semicolons connect closely related independent clauses or separate items in complex lists.
Colons introduce lists, explanations, or quotes.
Commas separate elements within sentences to enhance clarity, such as in lists, after introductory phrases, or to set off nonessential information.

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