Here's how I use commas:
* To separate items in a list: Apples, bananas, and oranges.
* To separate independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction: I went to the store, but I forgot my wallet.
* To set off introductory phrases: After a long day, I was ready to relax.
* To set off non-restrictive clauses: The book, which I borrowed from the library, was very interesting.
* To set off appositives: My dog, a golden retriever, is very friendly.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other ways commas are used. But, at the end of the day, I treat a comma like a punctuation mark that helps me create better and more understandable text.