How and where do you have to use semicolons, colons, and commas? Are there any special rules that apply to them when used in writing? Any tips?

Answer 1

Hi Kim,

Typically, you use commas after adverbs (i.e. "typically,"), and before conjunctions such as 'and', 'but', or 'or' in sentences. You also place commas when listing nouns, or verbs as action words, one after the other, as parts of whole, complete sentences.

You use semicolons when tying two shorter sentences together that share one main idea into one longer sentence--in order to avoid making it a run-on sentence.

You use colons when: identifying and describing a list of things or ideas belonging to a certain topical category, identifying and describing a certain perspective or angle of thought on paper, or elaborating upon a certain idea pertaining to any given subject matter in detail.

I hope this helps!