Using Commas Punctuation

Begin Your Comma Notes: Find a blank sheet of paper which you will keep in your notes this week. Title it “Comma Rules”

Commas with conjunctions FANBOYS The Rule: IF there are two complete sentences on either side of a conjunction, then you must place a comma in front of the conjunction. Samples: Need a comma: The class boarded the bus, and the bus driver gave them instructions. Don’t need a comma: The class boarded the bus and found seats. (No Comma)

Commas with appositives Rule: Use commas to offset appositives. Hint, you can take an appositive out of a sentence and the sentence still “works.” Sample: John, the fastest runner, won the race. (The appositive is underlined)

Commas to offset dialogue Samples: “Don’t block the road,” he said. He said, “Don’t block the road.”

Commas to offset introductory phrases Rule: Place a comma after a phrase that introduces the sentence. After cleaning out her closet, she decided to reorganize the garage. (Introductory phrase is underlined)

Commas in a series Rule: use commas to separate a series of three or more words. Sample: We painted houses, fences, and garages.

Commas to separate adjectives Rule: Use commas to separate two adjectives that equally describe the same noun. Sample The tall, white goose chased the duck.