Comma Rule 2​

Use commas in compound sentences: When you join 2 independent clauses together with a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS), place a comma before the coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS).​

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​Independent clause = complete sentence

​The coordinating conjunctions = For, and, nor, but, or, yet, so

​How did you do on that last question?

​Remember, just because you see the word and does not guarantee a comma. You need to check:

• ​Is it a list of 3 or more?

• ​Is it a compound sentence (joining 2 complete thoughts together)?

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​If the answer to both questions is no, you should not use a comma before the "and"

​No commas before/after because

• ​because always starts a DEPENDENT clause (not a complete thought)

• ​usually, if a dependent clause is at the end of a sentence --> no comma

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​Example: Jerry loves Saturdays because he gets to hang out with friends.

​Comma Rule 3: Use commas after introductions

​Types of introductions include:

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• ​Prepositional phrases (groups of words beginning with prepositions such as above, across, against, along, among, around, at, before, behind, below, beneath, beside, between, by, down, from, in, into, near, of, off, on, to, toward, under, upon, with and within..... and more!)

• ​Participial phrases (group of words beginning with an -ing word)

• ​Dependent clauses (Group of words that is NOT a complete thought. Begins with words such as once, while, when, whenever, where, wherever, before, and after... and more!)

• ​Single words (such as yes, no, -ing words, and more!)

Think you have an introduction? Check your work!​

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​You can always take away the introduction and leave behind a complete thought.