Mastering Comma Usage: Key Rules Explained

What is the primary purpose of using commas in a sentence?

• To make the sentence longer

• To add unnecessary punctuation

• To divide the sentence into parts for easier reading

• To confuse the reader

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a comma to set off an introductory word?

• When in doubt you should consult a dictionary for the correct spelling.

• When in doubt, you should consult a dictionary for the correct spelling.

• When, in doubt you should consult a dictionary for the correct spelling.

• When in doubt you, should consult a dictionary for the correct spelling.

How are commas used in the sentence: 'Erik Weihenmayer is the first blind person to climb Mt. Everest, which is 29,000 feet high.'?

• To introduce a direct quote

• To set off an introductory word

• To provide supplemental information

• To separate items in a series

In which of the following sentences is a comma used correctly with a direct quotation?

• According to Jordan (2011) 'Parkour is now taught as a college course,' (p. 5).

• According to Jordan (2011), 'Parkour is now taught as a college course,' (p. 5).

• According to Jordan (2011), 'Parkour is now taught as a college course' (p. 5).

• According to Jordan (2011) 'Parkour is now taught as a college course' (p. 5).

Which sentence correctly uses a comma to set off a transition?

• The American cyclist tested positive and, as a result, was disqualified.

• The American cyclist tested positive and as a result was disqualified.

• The American cyclist tested positive, and as a result was disqualified.

• The American cyclist tested positive and, as a result was disqualified.

How are commas used in the sentence: 'Their society became polarized by inequality, injustice, and indifference.'?

• To introduce a direct quote

• To separate items in a series

• To provide supplemental information

• To set off an introductory word

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

• The book’s references are listed at the end, and they introduce several new studies.

• The book’s references are listed at the end and they introduce several new studies.

• The book’s references are listed at the end, and, they introduce several new studies.

• The book’s references are listed at the end and, they introduce several new studies.

Which coordinating conjunction is used correctly with a comma in the sentence: 'Latin is supposedly a dead language, yet it remains a vital field of study for Biblical scholars.'?

• yet

• and

• so

• but