8 Comma Rules

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, and to clarify meaning.

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

A comma should be used before 'and' in a list of three or more items (Oxford comma) to clarify the separation of items.

Front

Correct this sentence: I want to buy apples oranges and bananas.

Back

I want to buy apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

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

Front

Correct this sentence: She likes to read but she doesn't have time.

Back

She likes to read, but she doesn't have time.

Front

When should you use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

A comma should be used after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause.

Front

Correct this sentence: After dinner we went for a walk.

Back

After dinner, we went for a walk.

Front

What is a non-essential clause?

Back

A non-essential clause provides additional information but can be removed without changing the meaning of the sentence, and it should be set off by commas.

Front

Correct this sentence: My brother who lives in New York is visiting.

Back

My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more coordinate adjectives that describe the same noun.