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 you use a comma in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list. Example: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is an appositive?

Back

An appositive is a noun or noun phrase that renames another noun right beside it. Example: My brother, a skilled musician, plays guitar.

Front

How do you use commas with direct address?

Back

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

Front

What is the rule for using commas in dates?

Back

Use a comma to separate the day from the year in a full date. Example: On July 4, 1776, the Declaration was signed.

Front

How do you punctuate a closing in a letter?

Back

The closing should be followed by a comma. Example: Sincerely, John.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) to connect two independent clauses. Example: I wanted to go, but it was raining.

Front

When should you use a comma with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more adjectives that equally describe a noun. Example: It was a long, tiring day.

Front

What is a non-essential clause?

Back

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

Front

How do you use commas with introductory phrases?

Back

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