Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of using a comma?

1. To link independent clauses

2. To indicate where a speaker would pause

3. To separate items in a list

4. To start a new paragraph

The correct answer is: To indicate where a speaker would pause

The primary purpose of using a comma in writing is to indicate where a speaker would pause. This helps convey the intended rhythm and flow of a sentence, making it easier for the reader to understand the structure and meaning. Commas provide natural breaks that can clarify the relationships between different parts of a sentence, allowing for more fluid reading and comprehension. In addition to indicating pauses, commas also serve important grammatical functions, such as separating items in a list and linking independent clauses with conjunctions. However, the most fundamental role often related to punctuation is the indication of pauses, especially in conversational contexts, where vocal intonation plays a significant role in communication. While starting a new paragraph is an essential aspect of writing, it does not involve the use of commas and instead relies on indentation or spacing to distinguish separate ideas. Thus, the focus on where a speaker would pause captures a crucial aspect of how commas function in written language.