Have you ever been confused about where to place a comma? Commas may be small, but they play a BIG role in making your writing clear and easy to understand. Misplacing them can change the meaning of a sentence entirely!
In this lesson, we’ll break down 13 essential comma rules with easy-to-understand examples.
When Should You Use Commas?
Rule 1: Use Commas in a Series
When listing three or more words, phrases, or clauses, use commas to separate them.
✅ Example:
➡️ The candidate promised to lower taxes, protect the environment, and reduce crime.
💡 Tip: The comma before “and” is called the Oxford comma. It helps prevent confusion, but some people choose to omit it.
Rule 2: Use Commas with Coordinating Conjunctions
When joining two independent clauses (complete sentences) with one of these seven coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So), place a comma before the conjunction.
✅ Example:
➡️ I have painted the entire house, but he is still working on sanding the doors.
Rule 3: Use Commas After Introductory Clauses or Phrases
If a sentence starts with an introductory clause, phrase, or word, use a comma before the main clause.
✅ Example:
➡️ While I was eating, the cat scratched at the door.
💡 Tip: If the introductory phrase is short, the comma may be optional.
Rule 4: Use Commas for Non-Essential Information
If a part of a sentence adds extra (but not necessary) information, place it between two commas.
✅ Example:
➡️ I am, as you have probably noticed, very nervous about this.
If you remove the phrase “as you have probably noticed,” the sentence still makes sense!
Rule 5: Use Commas Between Two or More Adjectives
When two or more adjectives describe the same noun, use a comma between them if you can insert “and” between them.
✅ Example:
➡️ He is a strong, healthy man. (He is a strong and healthy man. ✅)
🚫 No Comma Needed:
➡️ She wore a bright red dress. (Not bright and red ❌)
Rule 6: Use Commas in Dates, Addresses & Titles
- Dates: December 5, 2003, in Mill Valley, California.
- Addresses: I lived in San Francisco, California, for 20 years.
- Titles in Names: Al Baker, M.D., is our family doctor.
💡 Tip: If only the month and year are mentioned (December 2003), no comma is needed!
Rule 7: Use Commas in Direct Quotations
Separate a quote from the rest of the sentence using a comma.
✅ Example:
➡️ Mother asked, “Who wants to get ice cream?”
➡️ “I do,” he said.
Rule 8: Use Commas to Prevent Confusion
Sometimes, a comma is necessary to avoid misunderstanding.
✅ Example:
➡️ To Steve, Lincoln was the greatest president.
Without the comma, it might seem like you’re addressing Lincoln!
Rule 9: Use Commas for Direct Address
When addressing someone by name or title, set their name off with commas.
✅ Example:
➡️ Will you, Sam, have the surgery?
➡️ Yes, Doctor, I will.
Rule 10: Use Commas to Separate a Statement from a Question
When a statement is followed by a short question, use a comma before the question.
✅ Example:
➡️ I can go, can’t I?
Rule 11: Use Commas for Contrast
When contrasting two parts of a sentence, use a comma before the contrast.
✅ Example:
➡️ That is my money, not yours.
Rule 12: Use Commas After Introductory Words
Words like well, yes, no, now at the beginning of a sentence should be followed by a comma.
✅ Example:
➡️ Yes, I do need that report.
➡️ Well, let’s think about it.
Rule 13: Use Commas Around Interrupting Words
When words like however, therefore, or moreover interrupt a sentence, surround them with commas.
✅ Example:
➡️ I would, therefore, like a response.
➡️ I will be happy, however, to volunteer my time.
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