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Using Commas

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Overview: Commas

The comma is the most frequently used punctuation mark, but it is also the most often misused. Commas make reading sentences easier because they separate the parts of sentences.
Commas with Independent Clauses
Use a comma before the coordinating conjunctions and, but, for, nor, or, so, and yet when they join two independent clauses. (Remember that an independent clause must have both a subject and a verb.)
Independent clauses: The instructor put us in small groups, and she gave us a new assignment.
Independent clauses: The essay was difficult to read, but I learned some new vocabulary words.
Hint: Do not use a comma when a single subject has two verbs.
Single subject: The instructor put us in small groups and gave us a new assignment.
The coordinating conjunction (and) joins two verbs, but not two independent clauses. Only if the second verb has its own subject should you add a comma.
Independent clauses: The instructor put us in small groups, and she gave us a new assignment.
Each verb has its own subject, so and joins two independent clauses. Notice the comma.
Commas with Items in a Series
Use commas to separate items in a series of items joined by a coordinating conjunction. This means that you should put a comma between all items in a series.
Series of nouns: The class required that we read two novels, twenty short stories, and twelve poems.
Series of verbs: The students exchanged their essays, read them, and gave each other suggestions.
Notice the comma before and in each series.
Commas with Introductory Words
Use a comma to set off an introductory word, phrase, or clause from the rest of its sentence. If you are unsure whether to add a comma, try reading the sentence with your reader in mind. If you want your reader to pause after the introductory word or phrase, you should insert a comma.
Introductory word:

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