1. Commas: “Commas are like condoms…” (Corky, spring semester 2002) In reality, commas SEPARATE information.

2. Rule 1 Use a comma to separate two independent clauses connected by a FANBOYS: The FEE is in a few weeks, and I am confident in my ability to do well. IC,FANBOYS IC (compound sentence)

3. Rule 2 Use a comma to separate a dependent clause from an independent clause at the beginning of a sentence: Because I read all the comments on my essays, I did well when I took the FEE. DC, IC (complex sentence) IC DC (complex sentence)

4. Rule 3 Use commas to separate items in a series or a list: It seems like my life consists of working, studying, attending classes, and writing papers.

5. Rule 4 Use a comma to separate introductory information from the rest of the sentence: In my time off from work and school, I focused on passing the FEE.

6. Rule 5 Use a comma to separate a signal phrase from a direct quotation: Tracie Cone writes, “It is a misdemeanor in California to tattoo anyone under the age of 18.”

7. Rule 6 Use a comma to separate coordinate adjectives that can be connected by the word AND: She was a dedicated and serious student = She was a dedicated, serious student.

8. Rule 7 Use a comma to separate a mild interjection from the rest of a sentence: Yes, I bought a large bluebook for the FEE. WOW, the FEE is not far away! However, all of the topics were available before the FEE was given.

9. Rule 8 Use a comma to separate the name of a person being directly addressed: I think, Corky, you forgot to study your old essays before the FEE. versus: I think Corky forgot to study his old essays before the FEE.

10. Rule 9 Use commas to separate nonessential information from the rest of the sentence: Which = nonessential info (use commas) The child tattoo topic, which was posted online, was interesting to read. That = ESSENTIAL info (no commas) The topics that were posted online were interesting.

11. Who = commas depends on the situation Mel Gibson, whose anger management meltdowns can be heard all over You Tube, recently lost a role in a new movie. versus: Actors who have anger management issues often lose roles in movies.