Commas, commas, and more 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

Commas are used to separate items in a list. For example: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with conjunctions?

Back

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

Front

How do we use commas in direct address?

Back

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

Front

What is the purpose of commas in introductory phrases?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main part of the sentence. Example: After dinner, we went for a walk.

Front

When do we use commas in dates?

Back

Use a comma to separate the day from the year in a date. Example: July 4, 1776.

Front

How do we use commas in addresses?

Back

Use commas to separate the city from the state in an address. Example: I live in Austin, Texas.

Front

What is a non-essential clause?

Back

A non-essential clause provides extra information but can be removed without changing the main meaning of the sentence. Use commas to set it off. Example: My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.

Front

When do we use commas in greetings and closings of letters?

Back

Use a comma after the greeting and closing in a letter. Example: Dear John, and Sincerely,

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a conjunction. Use a comma before the conjunction. Example: I wanted to play outside, but it started to rain.