More on Comma Usage

Here's some helpful hints for comma usage:

 

1.   Use a comma to separate independent clauses when joined by "and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet"

   ex:  The class ended, but the students stayed at their desks.

 

2.  Use commas after introductory phrases/clauses

   ex:  Because her car broke down, she was late for work.

 

3.  Use commas to separate the nonessential information in a sentence (or at the end of a sentence)

   ex:  This Friday, which happens to be my friend's birthday, I have a big exam.

 

4.  Use commas to separate three or more words/phrases/clauses in a list

   ex:  My favorite colors are blue, red, and green.

 

5.  Use commas to separate adjectives before a noun

    ex:  He's rather large, handsome man.

 

6.  Use commas to set off geographical names, dates, addresses, and titles

    ex:  She lives at 18 Elm Street, Boston, Massachusetts.

 

7.  Use commas to shift to a quotation

    ex:  "I think," she said, "it's almost time to go."

 

 8.  DON'T use commas to separate subjects and verbs. Incorrect ex: What is bothering me, is that you never say hello.

 

9.  DON'T use commas to separate verb phrases in a compound sentence. Incorrect ex: I like swimming in the lake, and walking to the park.

 

10.  DON'T use commas to separate nouns or noun phrases in a compound subject/object. Incorrect ex: Men, and women are different.