1. Commas Commas are more than a pause!!!

2. Use a comma before the conjunction that joins two main clauses.  I cooked dinner, and Linda set the table.

3. In a series of three or more, use a comma to separate every item except the last one.  Native Americans grew corn, beans, and tomatoes.

4. Use a comma to separate adjectives of equal rank. They are equal rank if you can put and in the place of the comma.  He drove a shiny, green truck.  The attic was filled with many old clothes.

5. Use commas after introductory words or phrases.  Yes, Jim is our best student.  With very little money, she left for California.

6. Use commas to set off nouns of direct address.  Doug, that is the right answer.

7. Use commas to set off nonessential expressions: additional phrases that can be left out of the sentence.  My sister, staring out of the window, did not hear me yell her name.

8. Use a comma between the day of the month and year. Put a comma after the year if the sentence continues.  The play will be performed May 7, 2009, in the auditorium.

9. Use a comma between the city and state or country. Put a comma after if the sentence continues.  Cleveland, Ohio  My family is moving to Cleveland, Ohio, next year.

10. Use a comma after the greeting in a friendly letter and the closing of a friendly or business letter.  Dear Uncle Fred,  Your nephew,