Comma Review

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 you are listing three or more items (Oxford comma). For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas in compound sentences?

Back

In compound sentences, use a comma before the coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) that connects 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 that comes before the main clause. Example: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

Front

What is the purpose of 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?'

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When should you use commas in dates?

Back

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

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How do you use commas in addresses?

Back

Use commas to separate elements in an address, such as the street address, city, and state. Example: 'I live at 123 Main Street, Springfield, IL 62704.'

Front

What is a non-restrictive clause?

Back

A non-restrictive clause provides additional information but is not essential to the meaning of the sentence. Use commas to set it off. Example: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more coordinate adjectives that describe the same noun. Example: 'It was a long, exhausting day.'

Front

When should you not use a comma before 'and'?

Back

Do not use a comma before 'and' when it connects two items in a simple list. Example: 'I like apples and oranges.'