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 should you use a comma before 'and' in a list?

Back

You should use a comma before 'and' in a list when you are listing three or more items. For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'I like to swim, dance and sing.'

Back

No, it should be: 'I like to swim, dance, and sing.' (Use a comma before 'and').

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in direct address?

Back

A comma is used in direct address to separate the name of the person being spoken to from the rest of the sentence. For example: 'Can you help me, Matt?'.

Front

When do you use a comma after an introductory phrase?

Back

You use a comma after an introductory phrase to separate it from the main part of the sentence. For example: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'Matt would you please grab the paintbrush?'

Back

No, it should be: 'Matt, would you please grab the paintbrush?' (Use a comma to address Matt).

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is a sentence that has at least two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often separated by a comma.

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'At the beginning of the year, Chen, went to a new school.'

Back

No, it should be: 'At the beginning of the year, Chen went to a new school.' (No comma after Chen).

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a series?

Back

In a series, commas are used to separate three or more items. For example: 'I need to buy milk, bread, and eggs.'

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'My dog likes to eat, run, bark, and play.'

Back

Yes, it is correct. The commas are used properly in the list.