1. COMMAS

2. DIRECT ADDRESS Use commas to separate a noun of direct address (the person being spoken to) from the rest of the sentence. Examples: “I’ll race you to the corner, Ellen.” “Stand still, Kirsti,” Annemarie ordered silently.

3. SENTENCE INTERRUPTIONS Use a comma to set off a word, phrase, or clause that interrupts the main thought of the sentence. Examples: “Wait for me!” wailed little Kirsti, left behind, but the two older girls weren’t listening. One of the soldiers, the taller one, moved toward her.

4. TO SET OFF DIALOGUE Use a comma to set off the words of the speaker from the rest of the sentence. Examples: “I was racing with my friend, ” she answered politely. “She didn’t realize you were here, ” Annemarie explained.

5. BETWEEN ITEMS IN A SERIES Place commas between words, phrases, or clauses in a series. A series is three items or more in a row. Examples: Hannah likes pepperoni, sausage, pineapple, and olives on her pizza. (words) During the summer, I read mysteries, rode my bike, went to the beach, and played with my sister. (phrases)

6. TO SET OFF INTERJECTIONS Use a comma to separate an interjection or a weak exclamation from the rest of the sentence. An interjection is a word that expresses an emotion. Examples: “Wow, look at that beautiful sunrise.” “Hey, why are we up so early?”