4 types of commas
- Interrupter or bracketing commas. Sometimes sentences have interruptions, or little thoughts, in the middle of the...
- Conjunction commas. Place a comma before the conjunction when combining two independent clauses with a conjunction.
- Introductory commas. You use an introductory comma after a clause, phrase, or word at the start of a sentence.
What are the four types of commas?
The Four Basic Commas
- These type of commas help introduce a sentence. these usually consist of a short intro sentence or a single word.
- Serial Commas. Serial commas are pretty easy to remember. ...
- Interruptor Commas. Interruptor commas explain themselves: they interrupt a sentence. ...
- Conjunction Commas. ...
How, why and when to use commas correctly in writing?
Why and when to use commas
- Connecting two independent clauses. You can use commas to connect two completely independent phrases. ...
- Eliminate confusion. Writing without commas can become a confusing read. ...
- Separate items. We use commas to separate several list items in one sentence. ...
- Introductory adverbs. ...
- Address elements. ...
- Full dates. ...
- Summary. ...
What are four rules of using commas?
FOUR BASIC COMMA RULES 1. Use commas to separate items in a series of three or more. • Subjects in the program of study include English, math, and psychology. • Go up two flights of stairs, turn right, walk to the end of the hall, and you will be there. • The receptionist will admit you, the radiologist will x-ray you, the
What are the different types of comma rules?
Punctuation Marks with Rules
- Period. One of the more common punctuation marks used at the end of most sentences. ...
- Question Mark. A question mark is used as a replacement for the period when the sentence is a question rather than a declaration.
- Exclamation Point. ...
- Comma. ...
- Semicolon. ...
- Colon. ...
- Dash. ...
- Hyphen. ...
- Parentheses. ...
- Apostrophe. ...
What are the 7 rules of commas?
Commas (Eight Basic Uses)Use a comma to separate independent clauses. ... Use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase. ... Use a comma between all items in a series. ... Use commas to set off nonrestrictive clauses. ... Use a comma to set off appositives. ... Use a comma to indicate direct address. ... Use commas to set off direct quotations.More items...
What are the 5 Rules of commas?
Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause. ... Use commas before and after a parenthetical phrase or clause. ... Use a comma to separate two independent clauses linked by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, nor or, so, yet) ... Use a comma to separate items in a series.More items...
What are the 3 comma rules?
Since I made such a stink about it, let's start with this rule:Use a comma between items in a series or list.Use a comma between two independent clauses separated by a conjunction.Use a comma between two adjectives preceding a noun.Your Mission.
What are the 12 rules for commas?
ShareUse a comma to separate items in a list (but beware of the serial comma). ... Use a comma to join independent clauses. ... Use a comma to join a dependent clause and an independent clause. ... Use a comma following an introductory word group. ... Use a comma to interrupt a sentence or to provide additional information.More items...
What are the 6 types of commas?
Six Comma RulesPut a comma before for, and, not, but, or, yet, so (FANBOYS), when they connect two. ... Put a comma after an introductory expression that doesn't flow smoothly into the. ... Put a comma between items in a series. ... Put commas around an expression that interrupts the flow of the sentence (such as.More items...
What are the 4 types of commas?
There are four types of comma: the listing comma, the joining comma, the gapping comma and bracketing commas.
What is a direct comma?
When using direct address in writing, you use a comma to separate the person's name from the rest of the sentence.
What inverted commas?
Inverted commas are punctuation marks that are used in writing to show where speech or a quotation begins and ends. They are usually written or printed as ' ' or “ ”. Inverted commas are also sometimes used around the titles of books, plays, or songs, or around a word or phrase that is being discussed. 2.
What are the examples of comma?
2. Examples of Comma UseThe pet store has cats, dogs, hamsters, fish, and turtles. Listing things.I really wanted cereal this morning, but I didn't have any milk. Connecting clauses.Well, if you really want pancakes, I guess I can make them. Creating pauses.
What are the 13 comma rules?
13 Rules For Using Commas Without Looking Like An IdiotUse a comma before any coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet) that links two independent clauses. ... Use a comma after a dependent clause that starts a sentence. ... Use commas to offset appositives from the rest of the sentence.More items...•
Can you have 3 commas in a sentence?
If you have sentences like, "Bob walked, to, the store, slowly" then yes, there are too many commas. But a sentence that contains a list could legitimately have many commas. Like, "He found a bottle, three coins, two keys, a small metal box, a pack of matches, some scraps of paper, and a patridge in a pear tree."
What are some common mistakes to watch for when using commas?
6 Common Comma Usage MistakesAdding A Comma Before “That” In A Clause. ... Not Using a Comma Between Two Independent Clauses That Are Connected By A Coordinating Conjunction. ... Using A Comma Before A Verb In Relative Clause. ... Comma Splice and Run-On Sentence. ... Using A Comma in An Essential Adjective Clause.More items...•
What is a comma in writing?
October 22, 2020 Writing Tips. Even professional writers struggle with commas. In theory, everyone knows what a comma is—it’s a pause between parts of a sentence. In practice, though, it can be difficult to figure out where commas actually belong. Here’s a quick, user-friendly guide to help you master the comma in your everyday writing.
Why do we put commas in sentences?
(Pro tip: That rarely works.) Commas confuse us perhaps because there are so many rules for using them, and also because comma usage varies by style.
Is there a comma before "because"?
Its job is straightforward—it introduces a “clause of purpose.” A clause beginning with because answers the question “Why?” There’s usually no comma before because.
Do professional writers use commas?
Even professional writers struggle with commas. In theory, everyone knows what a comma is—it’s a pause between parts of a sentence. In practice, though, it can be difficult to figure out where commas actually belong. Here’s a quick, user-friendly guide to help you master the comma in your everyday writing.
Is the Oxford comma a real comma?
The Oxford comma is an infamous example. The Associated Press (AP) Stylebook doesn’t ban the Oxford comma, but the guide recommends using it only when necessary for clarity. The Chicago Manual of Style, on the other hand, favors the Oxford comma. It’s a real comma conundrum! #oxfordcomma https://t.co/fGHbj2lXky.
When to use a comma in a sentence?
Use a pair of commas in the middle of a sentence to set off clauses, phrases, and words that are not essential to the meaning of the sentence. Use one comma before to indicate the beginning of the pause and one at the end to indicate the end of the pause.
Why is a comma important?
The comma is a valuable, useful punctuation device because it separates the structural elements of sentences into manageable segments. The rules provided here are those found in traditional handbooks; however, in certain rhetorical contexts and for specific purposes, these rules may be broken.
When to put a comma in a list?
Put commas between items in a list. When giving a short and simple list of things in a sentence, the last comma (right before the conjunction–usually and or or) is optional, but it is never wrong. If the items in the list are longer and more complicated, you should always place a final comma before the conjunction.
Why do we use commas in sentences?
Commas help your reader figure out which words go together in a sentence and which parts of your sentences are most important. Using commas incorrectly may confuse the reader, signal ignorance of writing rules, or indicate carelessness. Although using commas correctly may seem mysterious, it can be easy if you follow a few guidelines.
How to fix comma splices?
To fix these comma splices, you can do one of four simple things: just add FANBOYS, change the comma to a semicolon, make each clause a separate sentence, or add a subordinator (a word like because, while, although , if, when, since, etc. ) GOOD: You wore a lovely hat, for it was your only defense.
What is the purpose of two commas in a sentence?
Two commas can be used to set off additional information that appears within the sentence but is separate from the primary subject and verb of the sentence. Sometimes called a “parenthetical expression” or an “aside,” this information interrupts the main thought to add an additional comment.
When do you put a comma between two adjectives?
If you have two or more adjectives (words that describe) that are not joined by a conjunction (usually and) and both/all adjectives modify the same word, put a comma between them.
Do commas belong in predictable places?
Some rules are flexible, but most of the time, commas belong in very predictable places. You can learn to identify many of those places using the tips in this handout. You probably already know at least one of the following guidelines and just have to practice the others.
Do you need a comma in a long sentence?
A really long sentence may be perfectly correct without commas. The length of a sentence does not determine whether you need a comma. MYTH: You should add a comma wherever you pause. Where you pause or breathe in a sentence does not reliably indicate where a comma belongs.
When to use a comma in a list?
When you have a list that contains more than two elements, use commas to separate them. Julie loves ice cream books and kittens. Julie loves ice cream, books, and kittens. Julie loves ice cream, books and kittens. (The comma before the and in a list of three or more items is optional.
What does a comma mean in a sentence?
While a period ends a sentence, a comma indicates a smaller break. Some writers think of a comma as a soft pause—a punctuation mark that separates words, clauses, or ideas within a sentence.
When to use parentheses in a sentence?
Parentheses are used to give additional information to the reader—information that would disrupt the flow of the sentence if written as a nonrestrictive clause. Commas may be placed after the closing parenthesis but not before either the opening or the closing parenthesis. If the sentence would not require any commas if the parenthetical statement were removed, the sentence should not have any commas when the parentheses are added.
Why do we use commas in writing?
Commas are used to split up different parts of a sentence, and when used correctly they bring clarity and flow to your writing. They’re probably the most common piece of punctuation in English, which means that they’re often the most misused.
How to avoid commas in a sentence?
To avoid comma mistakes, pay attention to the function of different words in your sentences and their relation to each other. A comma should generally not come between a verb (the action word) and its subject (the person or thing doing the action).
What is the comma used in a coordinating conjunction?
The clauses can be joined by a semicolon, a colon, or a coordinating conjunction ( for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so ). When two independent clauses are connected by a coordinating conjunction, always use a comma before the conjunction. Many scientists have tried to solve the problem, but none have succeeded.
What is a serial comma?
Serial commas. In lists, commas are used to separate each item, and the last item is separated by a conjunction ( and , or ). A comma before the conjunction, known as the serial comma or Oxford comma, is optional. Whether or not you choose to use it, make sure to be consistent. With serial comma.
Is there a comma after a dependent clause?
When a dependent clause comes after an independent clause, a comma is often not necessary, especially if it adds information that is essential to the meaning of the independent clause.
Do dogs have commas?
Dogs, cats, and tortoises have been known to act strangely before major seismic events. Dogs, cats and tortoises have been known to act strangely before major seismic events. Sometimes a serial comma is necessary for clarity. One example is when the final list item itself contains a conjunction.
Is a comma always accurate?
However the model is not always accurate. However, the model is not always accurate. With longer introductory phrases that set the stage for the main part of the sentence, it’s generally best to use a comma, especially if the phrase is more than 3–4 words long.
What does a comma mean in a sentence?
A comma is a punctuation mark (,) indicating a pause between parts of a sentence. It is also used to separate items in a list and to mark the place of thousands in a large numeral.
Why do we need a comma in a sentence?
He had a bushy, long beard. A comma is required in the above sentences because the adjectives can be switched around.
When does a comma go before the end of a quote?
Notice how the comma goes before the end quotation mark: Brown,” not Brown”, – when there is a period or comma next to an end quotation mark, the period or comma must go before the end quotation mark.
When to put a comma after each word?
The standard rule is that when there are more than two items in a series, put a comma after each item except the last item. This is true when another word such as 'or' is joining the last word. (Note: Some publications and teachers do not require use of the comma before the word and when there are more than two items in a series.
When to use a comma before "for"?
Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so - FANBOYS) when it separates two word groups that can stand alone as sentences (independent clauses).
Where is the signal phrase in a sentence?
A signal phrase may be at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence : According to Morelli, “There will be an earthquake along the Santa Barbara fault within the next ten years.”. “There will be an earthquake,” according to Morelli, “along the Santa Barbara fault line within the next ten years.”.
Is there a comma in the order of adjectives?
The juggler used yellow three balls. There should not be a comma since the order of the adjectives cannot be reversed.
Addressing someone specific
You do put a comma after the subject if you are addressing the person directly, such as in an email:
Separating a dependent clause from an independent clause
Let’s get into something a bit more complex. Clauses have both a subject and a verb. An independent clause forms a complete thought and can stand on its own as a sentence:
Using that vs. which
This is an important topic that happens to fall within the discussion of commas, so let’s tackle it!
Using the serial comma
The serial comma, also called the Oxford comma, appears after the second-to-last (penultimate) item in a series. For example:
Summary
Commas are very important for communicating clearly. When used correctly, they break up complex sentences, set off nonessential information, and help avoid the dreaded hiccup rule.
Examples
Writers, take every opportunity to learn about commas. (I’m addressing the writers directly.)
Why We Struggle with Commas
Dependent and Independent Clauses and Why They Matter
- An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. It contains a subject and a verb, and forms a complete thought. Dependent clauses contain a subject and a verb, too, but they’re not complete thoughts. You can often spot them because they begin with conjunctions or prepositions, like after, as, before, if, since, that, though, unless, until, when, and …
Comma Splices
- Let’s take a look at one way you shouldn’t use a comma—the comma splice. A comma splice happens when you connect two independent clauses with a comma instead of a conjunction or other appropriate punctuationlike a semicolon. Aaaw. Kittens are cute. But that punctuation needs more charm . . . and maybe a nail trim. The kitten was cute is an independent clause. It can stan…
Commas and Conjunctions
- Conjunctions are words that link other words, phrases, or clauses together. There are different types of conjunctions, but for now, we’ll keep it simple. (You’re welcome!) When should you use commas with conjunctions?
More Comma Rules and Guides
- We’ve cleared up some of the most common comma questions, but commas are a deep subject. Here’s further reading to lead you down the path to comma mastery. 1. Commas in Complex Sentences 2. Commas After Introductory Phrases 3. Comma Before Too 4. Commas in Dates 5. Comma Before Parenthesis or After? 6. Comma Before Which 7. Comma Between Correlativ...
What This Handout Is About
Commas, Commas, and More Commas
- Commas help your reader figure out which words go together in a sentence and which parts of your sentences are most important. Using commas incorrectly may confuse the reader, signal ignorance of writing rules, or indicate carelessness. Although using commas correctly may seem mysterious, it can be easy if you follow a few guidelines. Beware of pop...
Congratulations! You Know How to Use Commas!
- But wait—is there more? These guidelines cover the most common situations in writing, but you may have a stickier question. Below are some suggestions for finding some of the many other resources at your disposal. If you are worried about punctuation in general, pick up a writing handbook from the library or the University bookstore. You’ll find a list of handy resources below.
Works Consulted
- We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, pl…