Lesson 38 of 46

Commas

Place commas so sentences are easy to read.

The rules

1.Use commas in lists: "We need paper, ink, and toner."
2.Put a comma after an introductory word or phrase: "However, we agree." "In the morning, I check email."
3.Put a comma before and, but, so, or when they join two complete sentences: "I called, but he did not answer."
4.Do not put a comma between the subject and its verb, or before "that" in a defining clause.

Incorrect: ~~The manager, is late.~~

Correct: The manager is late.

No comma between subject and verb.

Incorrect: ~~However we should try.~~

Correct: However, we should try.

Comma after an introductory word.

Incorrect: ~~I like tea but she likes coffee.~~

Correct: I like tea, but she likes coffee.

Comma before but between two full clauses.

Watch out: Read the sentence aloud; a comma usually marks a small pause.

1. Which is correct?

2. Which is correct?

3. Which is correct?

Paste any text and see exactly what to fix, with the rule explained.