Commas
Learn how to use commas to separate ideas, items in a list, and clarify meaning
What Is a Comma?
A comma (,) is a punctuation mark used to separate words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence. Commas help clarify meaning, prevent confusion, and make writing easier to read.
When to Use Commas
1. In a List
Use commas to separate three or more items in a list.
Example: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.
2. With Introductory Words or Phrases
Use a comma after introductory words, phrases, or clauses.
Example: After dinner, we went for a walk.
3. To Separate Clauses
Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) joining two independent clauses.
Example: I wanted to go, but it was raining.
4. With Appositives
Use commas to set off appositives (extra information).
Example: My brother, a great cook, made dinner.
5. With Direct Address
Use commas to separate the name of a person being spoken to.
Example: Lisa, can you help me?
Commas in Context
I like pizza, pasta, and salad.
After school, we played soccer.
She is my friend, and she is very kind.
Interactive Quiz 1: Comma Usage
Choose where the comma should go:
I have a dog a cat and a rabbit.
Show Answer
I have a dog, a cat, and a rabbit.
After dinner we watched a movie.
Show Answer
After dinner, we watched a movie.
She likes apples but she doesn't like oranges.
Show Answer
She likes apples, but she doesn't like oranges.
Interactive Quiz 2: Correct or Incorrect?
Is the comma used correctly?
My friend, is coming over.
Show Answer
Incorrect. No comma needed: My friend is coming over.
We went to the park, and played soccer.
Show Answer
Incorrect. Should be: We went to the park and played soccer.
Lisa, can you help me?
Show Answer
Correct. Direct address.
Interactive Quiz 3: Commas in Lists
Choose the correct way to punctuate the list:
We need bread milk eggs and cheese.
Show Answer
We need bread, milk, eggs, and cheese.
I saw lions tigers and bears at the zoo.
Show Answer
I saw lions, tigers, and bears at the zoo.
Interactive Quiz 4: Create Sentences with Commas
Create sentences using commas:
List: apples, oranges, bananas
Show Example
I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.
Intro phrase: After school
Show Example
After school, we played soccer.
Appositive: My friend, a great cook
Show Example
My friend, a great cook, made dinner.
Important Grammar Rules for Commas
Oxford Comma
The comma before "and" in a list of three or more items is called the Oxford comma. It is optional but recommended for clarity.
No Comma with Two Items
Do not use a comma to separate only two items.
Comma Splices
Do not join two independent clauses with just a comma (comma splice). Use a conjunction, semicolon, or period.
Quick Reference
Pro Tip
Commas make your writing clear and easy to read!