Using Commas for the English II SATP

Items in a series If all items in a series are linked by the conjunctions and, or, but, or nor, do not use commas to separate them. Words: Every child should have a right to shelter, healthcare, and education. Every child should have a right to shelter and healthcare and education. Phrases: School segregation perpetuated inferior accommodations, poorer services, and unequal treatment for African Americans. Clauses: Education is a principal instrument in achieving success for it will awaken the child to cultural values, it will prepare him for later professional training, and it will allow him to contribute to his community.

Semi-colons for items in a series Semi-colons are used for items in a series to avoid confusion. Education is a principal instrument in achieving success for it will awaken the child to cultural values, societal responsibilities, and democratic citizenship; it will prepare him for later professional training, higher educational studies, or career development; and it will allow him to contribute to his community, country, or the world.

Commas in a compound sentence Comma Usage in Compound Sentences: A compound sentence has two or more independent clauses but no subordinate clauses. Use a comma before the conjunction that joins the two main clauses of a compound sentence. Use commas before and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet when they join independent clauses. Dr. King made a moving speech, and people were inclined to listen.

Coordinate adjectives Comma Usage with Coordinate Adjectives: To determine whether adjectives are coordinate– of equal rank–try placing and between them. If the order of the adjectives can be reversed without changing the meaning, then a comma is needed. Use commas between coordinate adjectives that modify the same noun. Ruby Bridges was a brave, intelligent little girl. In general, the comma may be omitted after numbers and adjectives of size, shape, and age. We saw a big round moon.There were five tiny bottles.

Direct Quotations Comma Usage with Direct Quotations: Explanatory words in direct quotations are statements that identify the speaker but are not part of the quotation. Use commas to set off the explanatory words of a direct quotation. Ronald said, “Drive east to the first stoplight.” “Turn left at the light,” Harry continued. “Continue for two blocks,” Ronald said, “and the store is on the right.”

Basic comma rules Other Basic Comma Usage Rules: 1) Use commas to set off words of direct address. James, please present your report on Ruby Bridges. Please present your report on Ruby Bridges, James. I understand, James, that you have a report to present. 2) Use commas after first, second, and so on, when they introduce a series. We visited three cities: first, Memphis; second, Jackson; and third, New Orleans. 3) Use commas to separate items in dates and addresses. In dates, use a comma between the day of the month and the year (January 31, 2005). Use a comma between the name of a city or town and the name of its state or county. Jackson, MSParis, France