SAT commas with extra information flashcards

What is a non-restrictive clause?

A non-restrictive clause adds extra information but is not essential to the sentence's meaning.

How do you punctuate a non-restrictive clause?

Surround it with commas to indicate that the clause can be omitted without changing the sentence's meaning.

True or false: Non-restrictive clauses require commas.

True, because they are extra information that does not alter the sentence's main idea.

Difference between restrictive and non-restrictive clauses.

- Restrictive: Essential info, no commas. - Non-restrictive: Extra info, use commas.

Fill in the blank: The book, _____ was on the table, is mine.

which

What is an appositive?

An appositive is a noun or noun phrase that renames another noun, usually set off by commas.

Give an example of a sentence with an appositive.

My brother, a skilled guitarist, plays in a band.

True or false: Appositives can be essential to the meaning of a sentence.

False, because appositives provide additional information and can be removed.

How to punctuate a sentence with an appositive?

Use commas before and after the appositive if it is non-restrictive.

What are introductory phrases?

Introductory phrases provide context and are followed by a comma in a sentence.

Example of an introductory phrase.

After the meeting, we went for lunch.

True or false: Introductory phrases do not need commas.

False, because they typically require a comma to separate them from the main clause.

Difference between direct address and non-restrictive clauses.

- Direct address: Calling someone, use commas. - Non-restrictive: Extra info, also use commas.

What punctuation is used for items in a series?

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list.

Fill in the blank: We bought apples, oranges, _____ and bananas.

pears

Question: When is a comma not needed?

No comma is needed before the conjunction in a simple two-item list.

Example of a sentence needing a comma before a conjunction.

I wanted to go, but it was raining.

What is a compound sentence?

A compound sentence contains at least two independent clauses, typically joined by a conjunction.

True or false: Compound sentences always need a comma before conjunctions.

True, because it separates the independent clauses.

Punctuation for contrasting elements.

Use a comma before 'but' when contrasting two independent clauses.

Question: What do commas before 'and' indicate?

They indicate the separation of items in a series or contrast.