6.4  Punctuation

The Comma

Rule: Use a comma to join two complete simple sentences into one compound sentence.

Wrong Way: We all like steak cooked on the grill but we all don't like it well done.

Right Way: We all like steak cooked on the grill, but we all don't like it well done.

Rule: Use a comma between two adjectives that modify the same noun.

Wrong Way: That was a hot spicy dish.

Right Way: That was a hot, spicy dish.

Rule: Use commas between items in a series.

Wrong Way: I invited Phil Mike Larry and Jake.

Right Way: I invited Phil, Mike, Larry, and Jake.

Rule:Use a comma after an introductory element in a sentence.

Wrong Way: If Marta is unable to go I will ask Roseanne.

Right Way: If Marta is unable to go, I will ask Roseanne.

Rule: Use commas to separate interrupting elements.

Wrong Way: Killer whales on the other hand are mammals.

Right Way: Killer whales, on the other hand, are mammals.

The Semicolon

Rule: Use a semicolon to join two complete simple sentences into one compound sentence.

Wrong Way: I really hate to be late for an appointment, I'm usually early.

Right Way: I really hate to be late for an appointment; I'm usually early.

The Colon

Rule: Use a colon to introduce a list of items or an emphasized idea.

Wrong Way: You will need these items for the camping trip, a sleeping bag, eating utensils, and clothes for three days.

Right Way: You will need these items for the camping trip: a sleeping bag, eating utensils, and clothes for three days. Right Way: There can be only one result for the team member who misses practice: she will be benched.

The Apostrophe

Rule: Use the apostrophe to show possession or ownership.

Wrong Way: Jamals bike is the one next to Sheilas. Right Way: Jamal's bike is the one next to Sheila's.

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