Comma (.)

Punctuation is a mark that makes a meaning of a sentence clear. One of the most common punctuation marks is the comma. A comma (,) is used within a sentence. It is used to separate parts of a sentence. It is also used when listing words.

Comma Used to Separate Clauses

A comma is used to separate clauses. Commas are often used in sentences that have coordinating conjunctions.

• My friend is moving, so I'm going to help him pack.
• I want to see a movie, but I'm very tired.
• Unless you have a valid driver's license, you cannot rent a car.
• After I leave the house, my dog jumps on the bed.

Comma Used to List Series of Words

A comma is used when listing a series of words adjectives, nouns, and verbs.

• He is young, smart, and handsome.
• I need to buy bread, potatoes, cheese, and carrots at the store.
• The ballerina leaped, twirled, and landed on the ground perfectly.

Comma Used to Separate Clauses

Commas are used to separate nonrestrictive appositive nouns. A nonrestrictive appositive noun is separated by a comma or placed in between two commas.

• My mom, Linda, is a chef.
• I am meeting with the school principal, Mr. James.
• Buddy, the Scottish terrier, is scared of cats.