GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsLanguage Conventions and UsageEasy
A student is writing an essay about the importance of clear communication. Which sentence correctly uses a comma to separate independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction?
- ACommunication involves both speaking and listening, therefore, practice both regularly.
- BMisunderstandings can arise from poor communication, but clear dialogue prevents many conflicts.
- CEffective communication is crucial in the workplace and, it fosters understanding among colleagues.
- DGood listening skills are essential for communication however, they are often overlooked.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Misunderstandings can arise from poor communication, but clear dialogue prevents many conflicts.
Option B correctly uses a comma before the coordinating conjunction 'but' to join two independent clauses. The other options either misuse the comma or incorrectly punctuate the conjunction.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This option incorrectly uses a comma before 'therefore'; 'therefore' is a conjunctive adverb and requires a semicolon before it if joining two independent clauses.
- C. This option incorrectly places a comma before 'it' when 'and' joins two independent clauses; the comma should be before 'and'.
- D. This option incorrectly uses a comma before 'however'; 'however' is a conjunctive adverb and requires a semicolon before it if joining two independent clauses.
Comma with Coordinating Conjunctions
A comma is used before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects two independent clauses.
- Connects two complete thoughts (independent clauses).
- The comma always precedes the conjunction.
- FANBOYS is a common mnemonic for coordinating conjunctions.
Memory trick: FANBOYS connect, comma before they project.