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Ten Easy Comma RulesCommas are a useful punctuation device that separates the structural components of a sentence. However, so many people do not know how to use them correctly. Learn the comma rules once and for all so you can prevent comma splices in your papers. Before you can understand when to use a comma and when not to, you need to know what elements need to be in a sentence. Click here to learn how to write a sentence.
Once you know how to write a basic sentence and the elements that a sentence contains, then you should proceed with the following information about comma rules.
Example: We went to a movie, ate dinner and then went to a party. Example: I bought a chocolate cake, strawberry pie and some ice cream for the party.
Example: Michele grabbed her keys and said, “I won’t be back.” Example: “Don’t hit your sister,” my mother warned.
For more information on how to use quotes, click here. Example: My address is 1234 Fake Lane Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Example: We are going to Ireland on May 25, 2012.
Example: Despite the fact that we haven’t spoken in weeks, I still sent Heather a gift for her birthday. Example: After washing my hands, I cut the cake.
For additional help on what a complete sentence is,
click here for information on how to write a sentence.
![]() Example: The weather was rainy, and it was very cold. Example: The girls overslept, so they did not go to school.
Example: While I ate my sandwich, my brother played. (dependent clause is at the start of the sentence, so a comma is needed) Example: My brother played while I ate my sandwich. (dependent clause is second, so no comma is needed) For more information on independent and dependent clauses, click here. Example: My uncle, who lives in Santa Barbara, loves to surf. Example: The college, which is in El Cajon, is very nice.
For a better explanation on adjective clauses, click here. ![]()
Example: The Chargers looked like they were going to make it to the super bowl, however, I decided to root for the Cowboys. Example: I decided to ask for a raise and, consequently, I was fired.
Example: Michelle, clean up your room! Example: The entire congregation, known for their generous giving, donated money to build a new parking lot.
Example: That was the best day of my life, the day when my daughter was born. (“day” is repeated and is described further after the comma). Don’t let these ten comma rules make you feel overwhelmed. By being able to identify when you should use a comma and when you shouldn’t, you are only advancing yourself as a writer. Remember, practice is key. Learn these comma rules so you can avoid comma splices! Think you have these rules down?
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