Rules for Comma Usage

RULES FOR COMMA USAGE

 Use a comma to separate the elements in a series (three or more things), including the last two. Example: He hit the ball, dropped the bat, and ran to first base.

 Use a comma before certain conjunctions (and, but, for, nor, yet, or, so) Example: He hit the ball well, but he fell at third base.

 Use a comma to set off introductory elements. Example: Running towards third base, he suddenly realized how stupid he looked.

 Use a comma to set off parenthetical elements. By parenthetical element it means a part of a sentence that can be removed without changing the essential meaning of the sentence. Parenthetical information is sometimes called added information. Examples: Eleanor, is wife of thirty years, suddenly decided to open her own business. The Founders Bridge, which spans the Connecticut River, is falling down.

 Use a comma to separate coordinate adjectives. This means when using a series of adjectives to describe something, place commas between the adjectives. Example: That tall, distinguished, good looking fellow goes to my church.

 Use a comma to set off quoted elements. Example: Summing up this argument, Marjalissa Tapper writes, “Everyone should use commas”.

 Use commas to set off phrases and express contrast Example: It was her money, not her charm, that first attracted him.

 Use a comma to avoid confusion. Example: For most of the year is already finished. (WRONG) For most, the year is already finished.

 Use a comma to set off geographical names, items in dates, addresses and titles in names. Example: July 4, 1776, is regarded as the birth of American liberty. Marjalissa Tapper, PhD, will be the principal speaker.

 Use a comma when a natural pause is required in a sentence. The only true way to determine this is to read the material out loud.