Using the CommaClass Notes

Rule #1Use commas to separate lists of three or more.

Example: I went to the store to buy milk, juice, and eggs.

Rule #2Commas and conjunctions join independent clauses.

Example: We can go to the grocery store, or we can walk to the mall.

Rule #3Use commas to separate independent and dependent clauses when the dependent clause comes first.

Example:When the flight lands, I will hug my family.

Rule #4Use commas to separate nonessential words and phrases from the rest of the sentence. For example: appositives, direct addresses, and interrupters.

Example: My brother, Joe, graduated from college yesterday.

John, a student, received an excellent grade in my class. (appositive)

Rule #5Use commas between adjectives of equal rank that modify the same noun.

Example:That is a decorative, colorful symbol.Hint: If you can put “and” between the adjectives, you can use a comma.

Rule #6Use commas to separate quotes.

Example:Sheila said, “Flowers are beautiful.”

or“Flowers,” said Sheila, “are beautiful.”

Rule #7Commas are used to set apart direct addresses.

Example:

Robert, will you open the door?

Rule #8Commas are used to set apart introductory words and phrases.

Example:Before lunch, we finished all of our business matters.

Rule #9Commas separate days and months. If the sentence continues, use a comma after the year.

Example:I will arrive on Friday, December 25th.

Rule #10Commas separate towns, states, and countries. If the sentence continues, use a comma after the state.

Example:Morehead, Kentucky, is a wonderful place to live.

Rule #11Use a comma after the greeting of a friendly letter and after the closing of a friendly or a business letter.

Examples:Dear Bob,Sincerely,