Commas

Front

What is the primary purpose of using commas in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, to set off non-essential information, and to clarify meaning.

Front

When should commas be used to separate items in a list?

Back

Commas should be used to separate three or more items in a list to clarify the individual elements.

Front

What is an example of a sentence that uses commas to set off non-essential information?

Back

My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting this weekend.

Front

How do you use commas with coordinating conjunctions?

Back

A comma is used before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

A comma should be placed after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause.

Front

When is it appropriate to use a comma before 'and' in a compound sentence?

Back

A comma is appropriate before 'and' when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is the function of commas in direct address?

Back

Commas are used to separate the name of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence.

Front

How do commas help clarify meaning in sentences?

Back

Commas help clarify meaning by indicating pauses and separating elements, which can prevent misreading or confusion.

Front

What is the Oxford comma, and when is it used?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of three or more items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. It is used to avoid ambiguity.

Front

Can you provide an example of a sentence that incorrectly uses commas?

Back

Incorrect: I like apples, oranges and bananas. (Correct: I like apples, oranges, and bananas.)