Comma Rules

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

Use a comma before 'and' in a list when you are separating three or more items.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

How do you punctuate dialogue correctly?

Back

In dialogue, place a comma before the quotation marks when introducing the spoken words.

Front

Where do you place a comma in a date?

Back

Place a comma after the day and after the year in a full date (e.g., July 4, 1776, was a significant day).

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in a sentence?

Back

Commas help clarify meaning by indicating pauses, separating items, and organizing information.

Front

When should you use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main part of the sentence.

Front

What is an example of using commas in a series?

Back

In a series: I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.

Front

How do you use 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).

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often requiring a comma before the conjunction.