1. Coordinating Conjunctions:
* FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So
* Rule: Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction that joins two independent clauses.
* Example: The dog barked loudly, and the cat hissed in response.
* Exception: When the clauses are very short and closely related, a comma may be omitted.
* Example: He ran fast and jumped high.
2. Subordinating Conjunctions:
* Examples: Because, although, while, since, if, unless, when, after, before
* Rule: When a subordinating conjunction introduces a dependent clause, place a comma after the clause if it comes before the independent clause.
* Example: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
* Rule: No comma is needed if the dependent clause comes after the independent clause.
* Example: We stayed inside because it was raining.
3. Conjunctive Adverbs:
* Examples: However, therefore, nevertheless, moreover, consequently, otherwise
* Rule: Use a semicolon before a conjunctive adverb that joins two independent clauses, and a comma after it.
* Example: The train was delayed; however, we still made it to the concert on time.
4. Comma Splices:
* Avoid: A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined only by a comma.
* Incorrect: The sky was cloudy, it was going to rain.
* Correct: The sky was cloudy, so it was going to rain.
5. Run-on Sentences:
* Avoid: A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without any punctuation or conjunction.
* Incorrect: The dog barked loudly the cat hissed in response.
* Correct: The dog barked loudly, and the cat hissed in response.
Key Points:
* Understanding the Sentence Structure: Identify whether you're dealing with independent clauses (complete sentences) or dependent clauses (incomplete sentences).
* Choosing the Right Conjunction: Use a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS) to join two independent clauses. Use a subordinating conjunction to introduce a dependent clause.
* Commas: They are essential for clarity and readability. Remember the rules and exceptions for comma placement with conjunctions.
Let me know if you'd like specific examples or have any more questions about conjunction punctuation!