1. 1. Using Commas in Compound Sentences
Use a comma before the conjunction to separate two independent clauses. (rule)
Use FANBOYS to connect 2 sentences.
EXAMPLE
Children have learned many things by age five,
but they still may need help getting dressed.

2. 2. Using Commas in a Series
Use commas to separate three or more words, phrases, or clauses in a series.
EXAMPLE
The forest included deer, squirrels, skunks, and rabbits.
Her directions sent us across the field, through the woods, and past the farmhouse.

3. 3. Using commas between adjectives
Use commas to separate adjectives of equal rank. HINT: If the word “and” can be placed between the adjectives without changing the meaning.
Do not use a comma to separate the last adjective in a series from a noun it modifies.
EXAMPLE
Bianca made a simple, polite request.
We walked on a long, twisting, scenic road.

4. 4. After introductory words, phrases, and clauses
Use a comma after most introductory words, phrases, or dependent clauses.
EXAMPLE
Well, I certainly wasn’t prepared for that.
To visit Sweden, you will have to have a passport.
Although it was early, I woke up.

5. 5. Parenthetical Expressions
Use commas to set off parenthetical expressions from the rest of the sentence.
EXAMPLE
Listen carefully, Ava, while I explain.
The suitcase, therefore, is quite heavy.
They know she did her best, of course.
These shirts, not those, are ready for pick up.

6. 6. Nonessential Expressions
Use commas to set off nonessential expressions from the main clause. Do not set off essential material with commas.
EXAMPLES
West Side Story, an award-winning movie, is good.
Aunt Jane, sitting on a bench, visited us today.
The team welcomed Derek, who scored some goals.

7. 7. Using commas with dates
When a date is made up of three parts, use after each item, except in the case of a month followed by a day.
EXAMPLES
On December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was bombed.

8. 8. Geographical Names
Use commas between city and state and between state and the rest of the sentence.
EXAMPLE
She lived in Dallas, Texas, for several years and then moved to Atlanta, Georgia.

9. 9. Numbers
With large numbers of more than three digits, count from the right and add a comma to the left of every third digit to separate.
Use commas with three or more numbers written in series.
EXAMPLE EXAMPLE
5, The winners scored 3,5,7,
654,298 and 9 goals this year.
2,567,365

10. 10. Addresses
Use a comma after each item in an address made up of two or more parts.
EXAMPLE
He is writing to John Keen, 137 Adams Street, Reno, Nevada

11. 11. Letters
Use a comma after the salutation in a personal letter and after the closing in all letters.
EXAMPLE
Dear Bill,
Sincerely,

12. 12.Using comma with direct quotations
Use commas to set off a direct quotation from the rest of a sentence.
EXAMPLE
Naomi said, “Please wait for me.”
“I will,” Rosa answered, “if you walk faster.”