Using commas

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma is a punctuation mark (,) used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should you use a comma in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list. For example: 'I need apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

How do you use commas with conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and' or 'but') when it connects two independent clauses. For example: 'I wanted to go, but it was raining.'

Front

What is a direct address in a sentence?

Back

A direct address is when you speak directly to someone. Use commas to separate the name or title from the rest of the sentence. For example: 'Let's eat, Grandma!'.

Front

How do you use commas in quotes?

Back

Use commas to separate quoted speech from the rest of the sentence. For example: 'He said, "Hello!"'.

Front

What is a non-restrictive clause?

Back

A non-restrictive clause adds extra information to a sentence but is not essential to its meaning. Use commas to set it off. For example: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.'

Front

When do you use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause. For example: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of three or more items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. For example: 'I love pizza, pasta, and salad.'

Front

How do you use commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more adjectives that equally describe a noun. For example: 'It was a long, tiring day.'

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a conjunction. Use a comma before the conjunction. For example: 'I wanted to play, but it was too late.'