English Grammar Practice Test: Punctuation — Flashcards

Punctuation is a system of symbols that help readers understand how a sentence is constructed and how it should be read. 
 

Here are some punctuation rules:
Commas: Create a pause and separate ideas in a sentence. They can also be used to separate items in a list.
Semicolons: Create a break, but recognize the connection of ideas. They can also be used to separate items in a list, or to show a pause in a sentence.
Colons: Connect two sentences thematically. They can also be used to introduce a list, quotation, or speech.
Full stops: Mark the end of a sentence and suggest a long pause. They can also be used to indicate an abbreviation.
Question marks: Used when asking for a response.
Exclamation marks: Used to indicate shock, surprise, anger, or emphasis.
Commas and periods: Always go inside quotation marks in American English. Dashes, colons, and semicolons almost always go outside.
Comma splices; Avoid joining two independent clauses with only a comma. This is called a comma splice.