Commas

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma is a punctuation mark (,) used to separate words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence.

Front

When do you use commas in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a list of three or more. For example: 'I like apples, bananas, and oranges.'

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the last comma in a list, placed before 'and' or 'or'. For example: 'I want to buy apples, bananas, and oranges.'

Front

How do you use commas with conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and' or 'but') when connecting two independent clauses. For example: 'I wanted to go, but it was raining.'

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often requiring a comma before the conjunction.

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When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma to separate two items in a list. For example: 'I like apples and oranges.' (no comma needed).

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How do you use commas in direct address?

Back

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

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What is a non-essential clause?

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A non-essential clause adds extra information to a sentence but can be removed without changing the meaning. Use commas to set it off. For example: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.'

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How do you use commas with dates?

Back

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

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What is a series?

Back

A series is a list of three or more items. Use commas to separate the items in the series.