Using Commas to Enclose Nonessential Details

Front

What is a nonessential detail?

Back

A nonessential detail is information that can be removed from a sentence without changing its main meaning.

Front

How do commas function in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to separate elements in a sentence, including nonessential details, to clarify meaning.

Front

What is the purpose of using commas to enclose nonessential information?

Back

To indicate that the information is additional and not crucial to the main point of the sentence.

Front

Give an example of a sentence with nonessential information.

Back

My brother, who loves to play soccer, is coming over.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate nonessential information?

Back

Place commas before and after the nonessential information.

Front

Identify a sentence that uses commas correctly for nonessential details.

Back

The teacher, who is very kind, gave us extra time on the test.

Front

What is an essential detail?

Back

An essential detail is information that is necessary for the meaning of the sentence.

Front

How can you tell if information is nonessential?

Back

If you can remove the information and the sentence still makes sense, it is nonessential.

Front

What is an example of unnecessary comma usage?

Back

The dog, that barked loudly, scared the mailman.

Front

What is the difference between essential and nonessential clauses?

Back

Essential clauses provide necessary information, while nonessential clauses add extra information that can be omitted.