Inside.
Yes, a colon can be used before a quotation if the preceding sentence is an independent clause that sets up the quotation. For example: She said this about the project: "We need to focus on quality." However, if the quotation is integrated into the sentence without being preceded by an independent clause, a colon is not necessary.
Yes, a comma should be used after the independent clause when it is followed by a dependent clause. This helps to clarify the relationship between the two clauses and improve the overall readability of the sentence.
If I remember correctly you put it before, but my memory isn't quite what it used to be.... lol
comma
If the verb in the independent clause is in the present tense, the verb in the indirect quotation should also be in the present tense. This maintains consistency in the overall tense of the sentence.
If should be followed by a dependent clause, a comma, an independent clause and then a period.
The diving board broke when she jumped into the pool
In a complex sentence, the dependent clause often comes first, followed by the independent clause. For example, in the sentence "Although it was raining, we went for a walk," the dependent clause "Although it was raining" precedes the independent clause "we went for a walk." However, the order can be reversed without changing the meaning; the independent clause can precede the dependent clause.
Because "why" is a subordinate clause and therefore cannot be answered unless it is appended with a fitting independent clause followed by a question mark.
Before the curtain fell, the actors bowed.
"Before" is a subordinating conjunction that introduces a dependent clause. It is used to show the relationship between the dependent clause and the independent clause in a sentence.
The comma goes before "and". However, this is only when "and" is followed by an independent clause. The comma is not needed for dependent clauses.