Commas

Commas in Lists

Simple Lists

• I bought apples**,** oranges**,** and bananas.
• She speaks French**,** Spanish**,** and Italian.
• We need paper**,** pens**,** and notebooks.

The Oxford Comma

The comma before “and” in a list is called the Oxford comma (or serial comma).

With Oxford comma: I love my parents**,** Batman**,** and Superman. Without: I love my parents**,** Batman and Superman.

The first is clearer. The second could mean your parents are Batman and Superman!

Commas After Introductory Elements

Introductory Words

• However, I disagree.
• Therefore, we must act now.
• Unfortunately, the store was closed.

Introductory Phrases

• In the morning, I go for a run.
• After the meeting, we had lunch.
• Despite the rain, they went hiking.

Introductory Clauses

• When I arrived, everyone was already there.
• If you need help, call me.
• Although she was tired, she kept working.

Commas with Independent Clauses

Joining with FANBOYS

Use a comma before coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when joining independent clauses.

• I wanted to go**,** but it was raining.
• She studied hard**,** so she passed the exam.
• He was tired**,** yet he kept working.

Without Comma (One Subject)

• She sang and danced. (no comma needed - same subject)
• I went home and ate dinner. (no comma needed)

Commas with Non-Essential Information

Non-Restrictive Clauses

• My brother**,** who lives in London**,** is visiting.
• The book**,** which I bought yesterday**,** is excellent.

Appositives

• Paris**,** the capital of France**,** is beautiful.
• My friend**,** a doctor**,** gave me advice.

Commas with Direct Address

• John, could you help me?
• I think**,** my friend**,** you are wrong.
• Thank you**,** everyone**,** for coming.

Commas with Quotations

• She said**,** “I’ll be there soon.”
• “Wait**,” he said,** “I’m coming too.”
• “That’s interesting**,**” she replied.

Quiz