Commas for Direct Address

Direct Address

Unit 4: Commas for Clarity

● Commas tell readers where to pause in a sentence.

​● When speaking to someone directly, surround his or her name with commas to show a natural pause.​

• I'm telling you, Jameson, that was the biggest cat I've ever seen.

• Carol, do you know where my waterskis are?

​

● Do not use commas when mentioning a name, but not actually addressing someone.

• Larry met up with Gwendolyn at the music festival.​

Unit 4: Commas for Clarity

Multiple Choice

Mr. Smith, your son is not doing well in math class.

• yes

• no

Multiple Choice

The election is going to be influenced Dr. Thomas by your opinion.

• yes

• no

Multiple Choice

You have to give it all of your effort, Suzy if you want to succeed.

• yes

• no

Multiple Choice

This water is contaminated with something, Professor Watson.

• yes

• no

Multiple Choice

Laurel took a second piece of cake despite knowing that, Jessica, hadn't gotten any yet.

• yes

• no