Punctuation The Comma

What’s a comma for? To slow the reader down Helps a reader understand the rhythm and flow Helps a reader to understand the meaning of a sentence

11 Comma Rules

#1 Comma Rule Separates two independent clauses (sentences) connected by a Coordinating Conjunction ▫FANBOYS – For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So ▫Bob was usually a quiet man, but he screamed upon entering the room.

#2 Comma Rule Separate elements in a list or a series Substitutes the word “and” Bob packed his t-shirts, pants, and socks. Instead of Bob packed his t-shirts and pants and socks.

#3 Comma Rule Separate introductory phrases and clauses from the independent clause After catching his breath, Bob squatted next to the man and took his pulse. Eating pizza, Tom suddenly felt sick.

#4 Comma Rule Separate a series of adjectives Replaces the word “and” The nimble, fat raccoon began to climb into the garbage. Instead of The nimble and fat raccoon…

#5 Comma Rule Use commas to set off an appositive Mr. Bowden, my favorite teacher, is retiring this year.

#6 Comma Rule Use a comma when words or phrases interrupt the sentence, and they could be removed and the sentence still makes sense. What the candidate promised, in fact, is impossible to achieve. Now then, let’s get back to work! She wanted to drive the car, too.

#7 Comma Rule To set off non-essential WHICH, WHO, WHOM, or THAT clauses (Clauses that you do not really need) Bananas, which grow in the tropics, do not need refrigeration. The old woman, who lives down the street, drives a red convertible.

#8 Comma Rule To set off or around quoted elements He said, “Can I borrow your car?” “Can I borrow your car, ” he said, “mine is in the shop.”

#8 Comma Rule Continued Do not add a comma if the quote ends in a question mark or an exclamation point. “What is that?” he asked. “Watch out!” she screamed.

#9 Comma Rule To separate city and state He lived in Salam, Massachusetts. He visited Albany, New York, on his way to New York City.

#10 Comma Rule Between date and year He was born on July 12, Born on July 12, 1999, Mark would grow up to an astronaut.

#11 Comma Rule After a greeting or closing in a letter At the beginning of a letter Dear mom, At the closing of a letter Sincerely,

When not to use a comma

Comma misuse #1 Do not separate subject from the verb The most important attribute of a ball player, is quick reflexes. **WRONG** The most important attribute of a ball player is quick reflexes. **CORRECT**

Comma misuse #2 Do not separate VERBS or VERB PHRASES in a COMPOUND PREDICATE Mark drove to the store, and bought some groceries. **WRONG** Mark drove to the store and bought some groceries. **CORRECT**

Comma misuse #3 When a dependent clause follows an independent clause He feel asleep, after he worked all day. **WRONG** You do use one when the dependent clause comes first After he worked all day, he fell asleep. **CORRECT**

Comma misuse #4 Do not add a comma if the quote ends in a question mark or an exclamation point. “What is that?” he asked. “Watch out!” she screamed.