module 6
Commas and Their Usage
Definition of Commas
A comma is a punctuation mark that indicates a pause in a sentence or separates items in a list.
Uses of Commas
Introductory Words and Phrases
Example: "Personally, I think the practice is helpful."
A comma follows the introductory word or phrase.
Lists
Example: "We bought a barn, a tool shed, and a back porch."
Use commas to separate items in a series; include 'and' before the last item.
Coordinating Adjectives
Example: "He was tired, hungry, and late."
Separate adjectives that equally describe a noun.
Compound Sentences
Use a comma before conjunctions like "and" or "but" that connect independent clauses.
Example: "The bedroom door was closed, so the children knew their mother was asleep."
Dates, Addresses, and Greetings in Letters
In dates: "The letter was postmarked 12/08/1945."
In addresses: "We moved to 4542 Box Kitter Lane, Hope, Missouri 70832."
In greetings: "Dear Miss Alsife, thank you for your letter."
Essential vs. Nonessential Elements
Nonessential Clauses and Phrases
Set off with commas; these elements can be removed without changing the main idea of the sentence.
Example: "The sales department, last year's winner of the most productive award, celebrated its success."
Essential Clauses and Phrases
Not set off by commas; these elements are crucial for understanding the sentence.
Example: "The woman who interviewed you is my sister."
Examples to Differentiate Essential and Nonessential
Nonessential: "The average world temperature, however, has continued to rise."
Essential: "The sixth-century philosopher Bepheus was arrested."
Participles and Commas
A participle is a verbal that functions as an adjective and often ends in "-ing" or "-ed."
Example: "The crying baby had a wet diaper."
Use commas to separate participial phrases when they are not essential.
Example: "Smiling, she hugged the dog."
More on Appositives
An appositive renames a noun and is set off with commas when not essential.
Essential: "My brother's car, a sporty red convertible, is the envy of my friends."
Nonessential: "My brother owns a car that is sporty and red."
Key Takeaways
Punctuation Marks: Provide visual cues to readers on how to read sentences.
Comma Usage:
Indicate pauses and separate lists,
Set off introductory phrases,
Distinguish between essential and nonessential information.
Correct Placement: Ensure the correct placement of commas is critical for clarity.