COMMAS have many uses, but they all work the same way.
A COMMA is used to indicate a SLIGHT PAUSE and SEPARATE SENTENCE PARTS.
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#1 – Separates two INDEPENDENT CLAUSES connected by a COORDINATING CONJUNCTION
My sister lives in Bermuda, and my brother lives in Turkey.
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#2 – Separates elements in a list or series
I brought pencils, paper, and a notebook to class.
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#3 – After an introductory phrase or subordinate clauses from the independent clause
After dinner, I took a nap. (after an intro phrase)
After we ate dinner, I took a nap. (after an intro sub. clause)
Do not use a comma when the SUBORDINATE CLAUSE come AFTER the INDEPENDENT CLAUSE
I took a nap after dinner. (no comma)
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#4 - Set off non-essential words or phrases that interupt the sentence when the interrupter can be removed from the sentence.
After my classes, many of which are taught my the same instructor, I took to the bus to meet my study group at the mall.
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#5 – To set off an APPOSITIVE
Bernie, the captain of the football team, is coming to the All-Star game.
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#6 – To separate a series of adjectives to replace the word “and”
It was a hot, humid day in Erie this past Friday.
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#7 – To separate CITY and STATE
I visited my cousin in Sacremento, California this past weekend.
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#8 – To separate DATE and YEAR
I was born April 18, 1977.
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#9 – After a greeting or closing in a letter
Dear Getrude,
Sincerly, Gertrude
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#10 – Around quoted elements, but not when a question mark or exclamation point is used.
“I love to eat raisins,” said Chad into the microphone. (use comma)
Chad said into the microphone, “I love to eat raisins.” (use comma)
“What did you say?” asked Jim. (no comma when a ? is used)
“Hurrah!” shouted Jill. (no comma when a ! is used)
