The Confusing COMMA (,)
When and where does the comma fit???
1.) Use commas to separate items in a series: Example – My favourite movies include Avatar, Finding Nemo, and My Girl.
2.) Use a comma before and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet, when they join independent clauses (unless the clauses are too short): Example – I did not like that book in the beginning, but it ended up being a good read.
3.) Use commas to set off nonessential clauses and phrases: Example – My teacher, who gives extra help, knows that I am trying really hard.
4.) Use a comma after introductory elements: Example – Hey, how are you doing today?
5.) Use commas to set off an expression that interrupts a sentence: Example – you can turn right, I’m certain, on a red light.
6.) Use a comma in certain conventional situations (to separate items in dates and addresses, after the salutation and closing of a letter, and after a name followed by a title): Examples –
December 20th, 2009
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Dear John,
Cordially,
John Smith, MD
DO NOT OVER-USE THE COMMA!!!
This is a pet-peeve of mine!
Contrary to popular belief, a comma is not necessary in EVERY sentence. Use commas in moderation, otherwise whatever you have written just becomes annoying to read.
