Mr.

Machalak English

Rule #1

To set off a phrase or clause before the subject.

Example: While he was running, his phone rang.

Rule #2

To separate items in a list.

Example: He brought paper, pencils, and his book.

Rule #3

Insert parenthetical information (appositive)

Example: John, my neighbor, won the lottery

Rule #4

Introduce or end a quote

Example: Great job., he said. -orHe said, great job.

Rule #5 Separate independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction. (and, but, so, or, yet, for, nor)

Example: I was grateful for my gifts, so I sent thank you cards.

Rule #1 To separate two independent sentences that are closely related. Example: The team won the game; they scored 7 touchdowns.

Rule #2 To separate items in a list when punctuation is included within the items. Example: My favorite places to visit are Cancun, Mexico; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and San Diego, California.

Rule #1 To list items after a complete sentence. Example: You are required to bring the following items: your drivers license, passport, and birth certificate.

Rule #2 To signal the reader that a second complete sentence explains the first. Example: Religion and politics can be sensitive subjects: people are easily offended by the opinions of others.

Rule #3 To put emphasis on a name or item.

Example: I had the chance to meet the greatest receiver that ever played: Jerry Rice.

Rule #4 To introduce a long quote after a complete sentence. Example: Alexander the Great, who conquered much of the world, felt that leadership was very important: An army of sheep led by a lion are more to be feared than an army of lions led by sheep