Commas

Front

What is the primary function of 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

How do you use commas to separate adjectives?

Back

Commas are used to separate two or more adjectives that equally modify a noun, such as in 'the big, red balloon'.

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

A comma should be used before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an example of using commas in a series?

Back

An example is: 'I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.'

Front

How do you use commas with introductory phrases?

Back

A comma is used after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause, e.g., 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

Front

What is a non-essential clause, and how do you punctuate it?

Back

A non-essential clause provides additional information but can be removed without changing the sentence's meaning. It is set off by commas, e.g., 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.'

Front

When should you place a comma in a date?

Back

A comma should be placed after the day when writing a full date, e.g., 'On Thursday, February 4, we will meet.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas with direct address?

Back

When directly addressing someone in a sentence, use a comma to separate their name from the rest of the sentence, e.g., 'Can you help me, Sarah?'

Front

How do you use commas in compound sentences?

Back

In compound sentences, use a comma before the coordinating conjunction that connects two independent clauses, e.g., 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

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, used before 'and' or 'or'. It is used for clarity, e.g., 'I love my parents, Lady Gaga, and Humpty Dumpty.'