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 items in a list, for example: 'I like apples, bananas, and oranges.'

Front

How do we use commas with dates?

Back

Commas are used to separate the day from the month and the year, for example: 'July 4, 1776.'

Front

What is the rule for using commas before 'and' in a list?

Back

A comma is used before 'and' in a list of three or more items, known as the Oxford comma, for example: 'I have a dog, a cat, and a rabbit.'

Front

Can you give an example of a sentence without commas?

Back

Sure! 'I went to the store and bought milk eggs and bread.'

Front

What is the correct way to write this date: August 17 2016?

Back

The correct way is 'August 17, 2016.'

Front

When do we use commas in addresses?

Back

Commas are used to separate the city from the state and the state from the zip code, for example: 'Richmond, Virginia, 23220.'

Front

What is a common mistake when using commas?

Back

A common mistake is placing a comma before 'and' in a two-item list, for example: 'I have apples, and oranges.' This is incorrect.

Front

How do we use commas in direct address?

Back

Commas are used to separate the name of the person being addressed, for example: 'Can you help me, Sarah?'.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with introductory phrases?

Back

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