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 you use a comma in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list. Example: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with dates?

Back

When writing dates, use a comma after the day and after the year. Example: On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther gave his speech.

Front

What is an appositive?

Back

An appositive is a noun or noun phrase that renames another noun right beside it. Example: My brother, a skilled musician, plays guitar.

Front

How do you use commas in direct address?

Back

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

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) to connect two independent clauses. Example: I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.

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. Example: The dog barked loudly, at the mailman is incorrect.

Front

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, or clauses that are similar or equal. Examples include: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with an introductory phrase?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause. Example: After dinner, we went for a walk.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more adjectives that describe the same noun. Example: It was a long, tiring day.