1. Comma Rules Ms. Ruger 11/20/12

2. Use commas before a conjunction that joins independent clauses in a compound sentence. Example: The ancient Egyptians’ written language was called hieroglyphics, AND it was not decoded for many centuries.

3. Use a comma after every item in a series except the last one. Example: Symbols of birds, lions, and snakes appear in hieroglyphics.

4. Use a comma between adjectives of equal rank that modify the same noun. Example: Hieroglyphics used colorful, decorative symbols. Hint: Add AND between the two adjectives and if it sounds correct, replace it with a comma.

5. Use a comma after an introductory phrase that contains a prepositional phrase. Use a comma after introductory words. Example: Even after 2,000 years of study, no one could read hieroglyphics. Example: Finally, the Rosetta stone was found in Egypt.

6. Use commas to set off a word or phrase that interrupts the flow of thought in a sentence. Example: The stone provided, at long last, a key to hieroglyphics.

7. Use commas to set off nouns of direct address. ( Names the person or group being spoken to.) Example: Alex, your class would be thrilled with this discovery.

8. Use a comma whenever the reader might otherwise be confused. Example: After we studied, hieroglyphics were less mysterious.

9. Use a comma between the day of the month and the year. If the sentence continues, use a comma after the year also. Example: The play will be performed May 7, 2002, at the city auditorium.

10. Use a comma between the name of a city or town and the name of the state or country. If the sentence continues, use a comma after the name of the state or country. Example: Blaine, Pennsylvania, is home of the Blaine Wildcats.

11. Use a comma after the greeting of a friendly letter and after the closing of a friendly or business letter. Example: Dear Uncle Fred, Example: Your Nephew,