10 Basic Comma Rules
By Sydney Dial and Esther Reyes
The Basics
- Use commas to separate three or more words in a sentence.
- Use a comma after an introductory element.
- Use commas to set off transitional words or expressions.
- Use commas before and after words that may interrupt the flow of thought.
- Use commas in addresses and dates.
- Use commas when writing an informal letter after the opening and the closing.
- Use a comma with direct quotations.
- Use commas when addressing a person to set off a name.
- Use a comma with short expressions such as: well, yes, no, sure, and oh.
- Use a comma to join 2 sentences before the words and, but, for, so, yet, or nor. That's enough of that, now for the examples!
Examples
- I ate cookies, cake, candy, and cupcakes at the party.
- If my boss hadn't said yes, then I wouldn't be here with my new job.
- Next, I will eat cake.
- I went to my friend, Lucy's house, two night's ago.
- April 6th, 2004 (that's Esther's birthday).
- Dear Mr. President,
- Lulu said, "I like pie."
- "Terry, go run the washer and dryer for me please?"
- Well, I do not know what to do.
- I hate carrots, but, I like peas.