Comma Rules

Front

What is a comma used for in separating a quotation from the rest of the sentence?

Back

A comma is used before and after a quotation to separate it from the rest of the sentence. Example: "Okay," spoke the teacher excitedly, "Time's up!"

Front

How do you use a comma to separate a city from a state or country?

Back

A comma is used before the name of the state or country when writing the name of a city. Example: I live in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in separating an incomplete thought from a complete thought?

Back

A comma is used to indicate a pause between an incomplete thought and a complete thought. Example: In five minutes, the building will be closed.

Front

How do you use a comma to separate extra information about the subject?

Back

A comma is used to set off extra information that adds detail about the subject. Example: My mother, on the other hand, does not like chocolate.

Front

What is a compound sentence and how are commas used in it?

Back

A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, and a comma is used before the conjunction. Example: James wants to leave now, yet we must wait for his little brother.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a list?

Back

Commas are used to separate items in a list. Example: I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.

Front

When should you use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

A comma is used after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause. Example: After dinner, we went for a walk.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with coordinating conjunctions?

Back

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

Front

How do you use commas with non-essential clauses?

Back

Commas are used to set off non-essential clauses that provide additional information but are not necessary to the meaning of the sentence. Example: My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in direct address?

Back

A comma is used to separate the name of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence. Example: Can you help me, Sarah?