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 do we use commas in a list?

Back

We use commas to separate three or more items in a list. For example: 'I bought apples, bananas, and oranges.'

Front

How do you use a comma before 'and'?

Back

A comma is used before 'and' in a list of three or more items. For example: 'I like pizza, pasta, and salad.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

When two or more adjectives describe the same noun, use a comma between them. For example: 'It was a long, tiring day.'

Front

How do you use commas in direct address?

Back

Use commas to separate the name of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence. For example: 'Can you help me, Sarah?'.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, and a comma is used before the conjunction. For example: 'I wanted to go outside, but it was raining.'

Front

When do we use commas with introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause. For example: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a date?

Back

Use a comma to separate the day from the year in a date. For example: 'July 4, 1776, is an important date in history.'

Front

How do you use commas in addresses?

Back

Use commas to separate the different parts of an address. For example: 'I live at 123 Main Street, Springfield, Illinois.'

Front

What is a non-essential clause?

Back

A non-essential clause adds extra information to a sentence but is not necessary for the sentence to make sense. Use commas to set it off. For example: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.'