Comma Usage Rules

Front

When should you use a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

Back

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (and, but, yet, so, or nor, for) when it joins two or more independent clauses.

Front

Example of using a comma before a coordinating conjunction

Back

He walked down the street, and then he turned the corner.

Front

When should you use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase to indicate that the introductory part has ended and the main part of the sentence is beginning.

Front

Example of using a comma after an introductory clause

Back

When Evan was ready to iron, his cat tripped on the cord.

Front

When should you use a comma between items in a series?

Back

Use a comma to separate each item in a series of three or more items having the same function and form in a sentence.

Front

Example of using commas in a series of words

Back

We bought apples, peaches, and bananas today.

Front

What is a nonrestrictive clause?

Back

A nonrestrictive clause is a clause that is not essential to the meaning of a sentence but provides additional information.

Front

Example of using commas to set off a nonrestrictive clause

Back

Steven Strom, whose show you like, will host a party next week.

Front

What is an appositive?

Back

An appositive is a noun or noun phrase that renames or restates a nearby noun, offering nonessential but additional information.

Front

Example of using a comma to set off an appositive

Back

Alexander Pope, the Restoration poet, is famous for his monologues.