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

Back

You should use a comma before 'and' in a list when it helps clarify the items being listed, especially in complex lists.

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 an example of using commas with adjectives?

Back

When using two or more adjectives that equally describe a noun, separate them with commas. For example: 'It was a long, tiring day.'.

Front

How do you use commas in dates?

Back

In dates, use a comma to separate the day from the year. For example: 'July 4, 1776'.

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a series?

Back

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

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma to separate a subject from its verb or a verb from its object.

Front

What is a non-restrictive clause?

Back

A non-restrictive clause adds extra information to a sentence but is not essential to its meaning. It should be set off by commas. For example: 'My brother, 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. For example: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'.

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. For example: 'I like apples, bananas, and cherries.'.