The Power of the Comma

The comma can appear several times in the same sentence, performing many different functions that help give that sentence greater structure, stability, and clarity.

1. List a series 2. List multiple adjectives 3. To address 4. After introductory words 5. Join sentences with a conjunction

 Whenever there is a list of items in a sentence, they can be separated by commas to show that each separate item is acting as an equal component of the same list. When commas are used in this way, they are often called serial commas.  Examples:  My powers give me strength, speed, and X-ray vision.  Cameras, alarms, and sensors are included in our security system.

 Nouns can be described or modified, with more than one adjective. Multiple adjectives can be separated by commas, and this shows that each multiple adjective is acting as a separate modifier for the same word.  Examples:  Do not press that large, ominous button.  This hairy, smelly, drooling creature is my friend.

 Anytime a sentence is directly addressing a person or group of people, that person or group of people needs to be set apart from the rest of the sentence with a comma.  Direct addresses can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.  Examples:  Dr. Brainstorm, your schemes are always brilliant.  You, Captain Hijinks, are my hero.  The evil invaders are dissolving, Captain Hijinks.

 If a person being addressed in a sentence is not properly set aside with a comma, it can change the meaning of the sentence, and that can cause confusion.  Example:  Let’s eat, Grandma. – This sentence is addressing Grandma and is informing her it is time to eat.  Let’s eat Grandma. – In this sentence Grandma is the one being eaten!

 Words such as yes, well, and no are called introductory words when they begin a sentence. Always use a comma after an introductory word.  Examples:  Yes, I have superpowers.  Well, will you save the universe?  No, I can’t by myself.

 Sometimes you may use introductory words and nouns in direct address in the same sentence.  Examples:  Yes, Captain Hijinks, the crook took the girl’s wallet.  No, Dr. Brainstorm, Sarah Johnson has mutant powers.

 Commas with coordinating conjunctions can be used to join two or more independent clauses.  Examples:  You win this battle, but we’ll meet again.  I struck him with all my might, yet he still stands.  Commas with subordinating conjunctions can be used to join a dependent clause before the independent clause.  Examples:  After I capture you, you won’t be laughing.  Until justice is served, I will not rest.