Extra Credit Post

Rules:

1. Use commas in compound sentences when clauses are separated by a conjunction such as "and," "but," "for," "nor," or "yet."

EX: I needed the pencil, but I wanted the pen.
I needed the pencil; I wanted the pen.

2. Use commas to separate elements in a series. Such elements usually are adjectives, verbs, or nouns.

EX: The big, crazy man stole my lunch money.
The dog could eat, sleep, run and even jump well.

3. Use commas when attributing from quoted material. Commas set off words of attribution from the words of a one-sentence quotation unless a question mark or exclamation mark is preferred.

EX: As I left the room she said, "Don't forget your key!"
I can't believe she said, "damnit" in front of the teacher.

4. Commas follow introductory matter, such as after an introductory adverbial clause.

EX: When I went to the store, I had to first make a list.
I went to sleep, I knew I had to get up soon.

5. Commas follow the salutation of a friendly letter and the complimentary close of any letter. Commas also follow capitalized elements, such as the complimentary close (e.g., Sincerely, Very truly yours), and a colon follows the salutation of a business letter.

EX: To whom it may concern,
Dear Alice,

6. Commas follow all items in a date or full address.

EX: I used to live in Frederick, Maryland.
Today is March 12, 2006.

7. Commas surround nonessential words or phrases.

EX: The newsreporter actually, went crazy after the show.
His mom for once, decided to drive.

8. Commas surround words of direct address.

EX: Doctor, I need your help.
Sarah, can you get me my drink.

9. Commas indicate omitted verbs, usually expressed in another part of the sentence.

EX: My computer is broken, yeah your right.
I will be on television, maybe, one day.

10. Semicolons connect two complete sentences if sentences have a related though. Use of a semicolon usually creates a sense of drama.

EX: My mom had to get tons of groceries at the store; banannas, salad, pizza bites and hot dogs.
I needed to start studying; english, writing and history.

11. Semicolons are used in a list separating items that require significant internal punctuation.

EX: I needed to buy clothes; a shirt, pair of jeans and socks but didn't have enough money.
Last year I lived in Canada; then in Towson and finally now I live in Virginia.

12. Colons preced formal lists, illustrations, multisentence quotes, and enumerations.

EX: My friends are kelly, steve, sarah, jennifer and micheal.
I want to travel to London, Hollywood, Paris and Texas.