Commas, Commas, 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 before 'and' in a list?

Back

You should use a comma before 'and' in a list when it separates three or more items (Oxford comma). For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

A comma is used before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) to separate two independent clauses. Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

Front

How do you use commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause. Example: '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 meaning of the sentence. It is set off by commas. Example: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.'

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma to separate two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction. Example: 'I like ice cream but I don't like chocolate.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

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

Front

How do you use commas in direct address?

Back

Use commas to separate the name of a person being addressed from the rest of the sentence. Example: 'Can you help me, Sarah?'

Front

What is the rule for using commas with dates?

Back

Use a comma to separate the day from the year in a full date. Example: 'On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed.'

Front

How do you use commas with geographical names?

Back

Use commas to separate the city from the state or country. Example: 'I live in Denver, Colorado.'