1. Separating Items in a Series:
* Example: "I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes."
* Rule: Use commas to separate items in a list, with "and" before the last item.
2. Separating Independent Clauses:
* Example: "The sun was shining, but it was cold outside."
* Rule: Use a comma before coordinating conjunctions (like "and," "but," "or," "nor," "for," "so," "yet") when they connect two independent clauses (complete sentences).
3. Setting Off Introductory Phrases and Clauses:
* Example: "After a long day, I finally got home."
* Rule: Use a comma after introductory words, phrases, or clauses that come before the main clause.
4. Setting Off Nonessential Clauses and Phrases:
* Example: "My dog, who is a golden retriever, loves to play fetch."
* Rule: Use commas to set off information that is not essential to the sentence's meaning.
5. Separating Appositives:
* Example: "My friend, John, is a talented musician."
* Rule: Use commas to set off appositives (words or phrases that rename a noun).
6. Indicating Direct Address:
* Example: "John, can you pass the salt?"
* Rule: Use commas to set off the name of a person being directly addressed.
7. After Interjections:
* Example: "Wow, that's amazing!"
* Rule: Use a comma after an interjection (a word that expresses emotion).
8. In Dates, Addresses, and Numbers:
* Example: "November 12, 2023," "123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345," "1,000,000."
* Rule: Commas are used in specific formats for dates, addresses, and large numbers.
9. To Avoid Confusion:
* Example: "I saw, the man, running." (Confusing)
* Example: "I saw the man running." (Clear)
* Rule: Use commas to clarify meaning and avoid ambiguity.
Overall, commas are essential for clarity, readability, and proper sentence structure in writing. They help readers navigate the flow of information and understand the intended meaning.