Comma Rules

Front

What is the purpose of commas in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, separate items in a list, and clarify meaning.

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 list?

Back

In the sentence 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas,' commas separate the items in the list.

Front

How do you use commas with introductory phrases?

Back

A comma is used after an introductory phrase or clause, e.g., 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

Front

What is a non-essential clause?

Back

A non-essential clause provides additional information but can be removed without changing the sentence's meaning. It is set off by commas.

Front

Provide an example of a non-essential clause.

Back

In the sentence 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting,' the clause 'who lives in New York' is non-essential.

Front

When should you not use a comma in a sentence?

Back

Do not use a comma to separate a subject from its verb or a verb from its object.

Front

What is the rule for dates in a sentence?

Back

When writing dates, use a comma after the day and before the year, e.g., 'June 23, 2018.'

Front

How do you punctuate direct quotations?

Back

Use a comma to introduce a direct quotation, e.g., Mary said, 'I think you need help.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

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