1. Using Commas With Parenthetical Expressions A parenthetical expression is a word or phrase that is not required for the meaning of the sentence. They add extra information. Use a comma to separate a parenthetical expression from the rest of the sentence. Types of parenthetical expressions: 1.Names of people being addressed Ex.) Go clean the basement right now, Abby. 2.Conjunctive Adverbs Ex.) He is going to the beach, therefore, he brought sunscreen. 3.Contrasting Expressions Ex.) The information is your business, not mine. 4.Common Expressions Ex.) The arena, in my opinion, is the best tourist attraction in the city.

2. Using Commas with Nonessential Expressions To decide whether to set off a phrase or a clause with commas or not, decide whether the phrase or clause is essential or nonessential to the meaning of the sentence. Nonessential phrases or clauses can be left out of the sentence with out changing its meaning. Don’t set off essential expressions with commas.

3. Appositives and Appositive Phrases Appositives are only set off with commas when their meaning is not essential to the sentence Ex.) Essential- The boat the King Fish is going to the island. Ex.) King Fish, my family’s boat, is going to the island.

4. Participial Phrases Participial phrases are set off with commas only when there meaning is nonessential to the sentence. Ex.) Essential- The person making pretzels is my best friend. Ex.) Nonessential- My best friend, making pretzels, gave out free samples.

5. Adjectival Clauses Adjectival clauses are set off with commas only if they are nonessential to the sentence. Ex.) Essential- The people in the board meeting wanted a decision that would help their company. Ex.) Nonessential- The board meeting, which was a very important one, was a success for the company.

6. Using Commas with Addresses and in Letters Commas are used in addresses, salutations in friendly letters, and closings in letters Follow each item in an address made up of two or more parts with a comma Ex.) Paul Prescott 42 Wallaby Way, Atlanta, Georgia 30075 Not as many commas are needed when an address is written in a letter or on an envelope Ex.) Sammy Smith 4045 Rockingham Drive Roswell, Georgia 30075

7. Using Commas with Addresses and in Letters Continued Use a comma after the salutation or greeting in a personal letter and after the closing in all letters. Ex.) Salutation- Dear Aunt Suzy, Dear Joe, Ex.) Closing- Sincerely, From, Love,