Useful tips

What is the difference between a semicolon and a comma?

What is the difference between a semicolon and a comma?

Commas are used especially as a mark of separation within the sentence; semicolons are used to connect independent clauses.

Can I use comma after semicolon?

The group of words that comes before the semicolon should form a complete sentence, the group of words that comes after the semicolon should form a complete sentence, and the two sentences should share a close, logical connection: That’s exactly why you can’t substitute a comma for a semicolon.

When should we use comma in a sentence?

  1. Commas don’t just signify pauses in a sentence — precise rules govern when to use this punctuation mark.
  2. Commas are needed before coordinating conjunctions, after dependent clauses (when they precede independent clauses), and to set off appositives.
  3. The Oxford comma reduces ambiguity in lists.

What is comma and examples?

Rule 1. Use commas to separate words and word groups in a simple series of three or more items. Example: My estate goes to my husband, son, daughter-in-law, and nephew. Note: When the last comma in a series comes before and or or (after daughter-in-law in the above example), it is known as the Oxford comma.

Does comma MEAN AND or OR?

Should you use a comma before or? The answer depends on how you are using or. Always place a comma before or when it begins an independent clause, but if it begins a dependent clause, don’t. In a series (or list) of three or more items, you can use a comma before or, but this is a preference, not a rule.

What is a visual essay?

A visual essay is a sequence of photographs or other images which are either: original, taken and/or created by yourself, or. found, and significantly processed (e.g. using Photoshop, Illustrator)

What does comma look like?

The comma , is a punctuation mark that appears in several variants in different languages. It has the same shape as an apostrophe or single closing quotation mark (‘) in many typefaces, but it differs from them in being placed on the baseline of the text.

How do you start a list mid sentence?

In-sentence lists

  1. Use a colon to introduce the list items only if a complete sentence precedes the list.
  2. Use both opening and closing parentheses on the list item numbers or letters: (a) item, (b) item, etc.
  3. Use either regular Arabic numbers or lowercase letters within the parentheses, but use them consistently.

How do you start a visual essay?

How to Write a Visual Essay

  1. Create your visual essay by deciding which format you will be using for your essay.
  2. Use charts, bars or graphs to tell your story.
  3. Write your essay on a topic such as “uprisings” and use current pictures or images of an uprising in a country.
  4. Use visual aids or props.

What is comma in a sentence?

What Is a Comma? While a period ends a sentence, a comma indicates a smaller break. Some writers think of a comma as a soft pause—a punctuation mark that separates words, clauses, or ideas within a sentence.

How do you list sentences?

Format for Lists

  1. Use a colon to introduce the list items only if a complete sentence precedes the list.
  2. Use both opening and closing parentheses on the list item numbers or letters: (a) item, (b) item, etc.
  3. Use either regular Arabic numbers or lowercase letters within the parentheses, but use them consistently.

How do you end a sentence with us?

Adele, You never use double periods or question marks at the end of a sentence. “U.S.” at the end of a sentence is just U.S. (Note: three dots — they’re not periods but dots — make up what is called an ellipses [plural of one dot which is called an ellipsis].

What should a good personal essay include?

A good personal essay should contain an introductory paragraph, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

How do you list things with a semicolon?

Using Semicolons

  1. A semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.
  2. Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases.

What does a semicolon indicate?

“A semicolon is used when an author could’ve chosen to end their sentence, but chose not to. Just as the mark is a sign for readers to pause before continuing a sentence, participants have embraced the symbol as a reminder that their story isn’t over yet—and that they should tell it.

Do I use a comma or semicolon for lists?

It is usual to use commas to separate the items in a list. However, when the list items themselves contain commas, you can “outrank” those commas by using semicolons as the separators for your list items.

Can you use a semicolon and a colon in the same sentence?

Colons and semicolons can be used in the same sentence, but they are each used for different purposes. In this example, the colon is used to introduce the cities.