1. Separating Items in a List:
* Use commas to separate items in a list of three or more items.
* Example: I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.
* Place a comma before the conjunction (and, but, or, nor) that joins the last two items in a list.
* Example: The dog was happy, playful, and energetic.
2. Separating Independent Clauses:
* Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) that joins two independent clauses.
* Example: I went to the store, but I forgot to buy milk.
3. Setting Off Introductory Phrases or Clauses:
* Use a comma after introductory phrases or clauses that come before the main clause.
* Example: After the long drive, we were exhausted.
* Example: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
4. Setting Off Non-Essential Phrases or Clauses:
* Use commas to set off phrases or clauses that are not essential to the meaning of the sentence.
* Example: My sister, who lives in California, is a doctor.
* Example: The book, a classic mystery novel, was well-written.
5. Setting Off Appositives:
* Use commas to set off appositives, which are words or phrases that rename or explain a noun.
* Example: My favorite author, Agatha Christie, wrote many famous mysteries.
6. After a Direct Address:
* Use a comma after a direct address.
* Example: John, can you please pass the salt?
7. In Dates and Addresses:
* Use commas to separate the day from the month and the year in a date.
* Example: July 4, 1776.
* Use commas to separate the city from the state and the state from the zip code in an address.
* Example: 123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 91234.
8. To Avoid Confusion:
* Use commas to avoid confusion or misreading.
* Example: Let's eat, Grandma! (Without the comma, it sounds like you want to eat Grandma!)
Remember, commas are essential to clear and concise writing. If you are unsure about using a comma, it is always best to err on the side of caution and include it. There are exceptions to these rules, and the best way to improve your comma usage is to read a lot and pay attention to how commas are used in different contexts. You can also consult a grammar guide or style manual for more detailed information.