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 before 'and'?

Back

You should use a comma before 'and' when it connects two independent clauses in a compound sentence.

Front

How do you use commas in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a list. For example: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in direct address?

Back

Commas are used in direct address to separate the name of the person being spoken to from the rest of the sentence. For example: 'Let's eat, Grandma!'.

Front

When should you use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause. For example: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often with a comma before the conjunction.

Front

How do you use commas with adjectives?

Back

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

Front

What is the rule for using commas with dates?

Back

Use commas to separate the day from the year in a date. For example: 'July 4, 1776, is a significant date.'

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of a sentence that needs a comma for clarity?

Back

'Let's eat, Grandma!' vs. 'Let's eat Grandma!' The comma clarifies that you are speaking to Grandma, not suggesting to eat her.