1. Separating Items in a List:
* Example: I need to buy apples, bananas, oranges, and grapes.
* Rule: Use commas to separate items in a list of three or more items.
* Important: Use a comma before the conjunction "and" or "or" when it joins the last two items in a list.
2. Separating Independent Clauses:
* Example: I went to the store, and I bought some groceries.
* Rule: Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) that connects two independent clauses.
3. Setting Off Introductory Phrases and Clauses:
* Example: After the long drive, I was exhausted.
* Rule: Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause that precedes an independent clause.
4. Setting Off Nonessential Phrases and Clauses:
* Example: My friend, who lives in California, is coming to visit.
* Rule: Use commas to set off nonessential phrases or clauses (phrases or clauses that can be removed without changing the meaning of the sentence).
5. Setting Off Appositives:
* Example: My favorite author, Stephen King, writes horror novels.
* Rule: Use commas to set off appositives (words or phrases that rename or explain a noun).
6. Separating Adjectives:
* Example: The old, dusty book sat on the shelf.
* Rule: Use commas to separate adjectives that modify the same noun.
7. After Direct Address:
* Example: John, can you please pass the salt?
* Rule: Use a comma after a direct address (when you use someone's name or title to directly address them).
8. Dates and Locations:
* Example: I was born on July 4, 1985, in New York City.
* Rule: Use commas to separate the day of the month from the year and the city from the state in dates and locations.
9. Numbers:
* Example: The company reported a profit of $1,000,000.
* Rule: Use commas to separate thousands, millions, and billions in numbers.
10. Avoiding Confusion:
* Example: I saw the man, running down the street.
* Rule: Use commas to clarify meaning and prevent confusion.
Remember: Commas are a powerful tool for clarity and style. When in doubt, it's better to err on the side of using a comma.