Comma Usage

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 a conjunction?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.

Front

How do you use commas in a list?

Back

Use commas to separate items in a list, placing a comma before the conjunction in a series of three or more items.

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. It is used for clarity.

Front

When should you use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause to separate it from the main clause.

Front

What is a direct address in a sentence?

Back

A direct address is when you call someone by name in a sentence, and it should be set off by commas.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a non-essential clause?

Back

Use commas to set off non-essential clauses that provide additional information but can be removed without changing the sentence's meaning.

Front

What is the rule for using commas with adjectives?

Back

Use commas to separate two or more coordinate adjectives that describe the same noun.

Front

How do you use commas with dates and addresses?

Back

Use commas to separate elements in dates (e.g., 'July 4, 1776') and addresses (e.g., '123 Main St, Springfield, IL').