Helpful Terms to Know

• Phrase - lacks either noun or verb (or both) Clause - contains a subject and a verb

• Dependent Clause will start with a subordinate conjunction (sounds unfinished)

• Independent Clause could be a sentence by itself 

• Example: After English class, I am always in a good mood.

• Example: After I go to English class, I am always in a good mood.

Rule #1: Commas with INTRODUCTORY STATEMENTS

• As I went to school, I had regrets.

• Before you go to bed, brush your teeth.

• If you don't understand, ask a question

• In case you were wondering, I never allow myself to be exposed to direct sunlight unless I have my scarf, my sunglasses, and a large umbrella.

ABBI SAW A WUWU

• These words ALWAYS INTRODUCE ideas in sentences

• MUST use a comma, if using these words

Rule #2: Commas with FANBOY Conjunctions

Rule #3: Commas to separate items or ideas

Rule #4:Use a comma to add additional/interrupting information (appositives)

Appositives

The term appositive comes from a Latin verb that means "to put near or next to." It's function is to give additional meaning to a noun or pronoun.

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Appositives: a group of words that identifies, renames, or explains a noun or pronoun.

Rule #5: Use a comma to separate adjectives that equally modify the same noun

• EX: John’s eyes met the hard, bright lights.

• EX: Matt was tired of working in the hot, smelly kitchen. 

• TIP: 

  If it makes sense to insert “and” between the adjectives, use a comma.  If not, don’t use a comma.

  
  

• EX: She took her usual morning walk.

Rule #6: Use a comma to separate an interjection or an interruption from the rest of the sentence.

• EX: Hey, how are you?   ← interjection

• EX: Okay, what do I do now?  ← interjection  

• EX: For me, well, it’s pretty easy. ← interruption

• 
  

Rule #7: Use a comma or a pair of commas to set off a parenthetical or nonessential phrases/clauses.

• EX: The girl, who was quite beautiful, was the first in line.

• EX: He went with Sarah, his coworker, for a walk.

  
  

We use RELATIVE CLAUSES to give more information about people, things or places.

(and to connect 2 sentences or ideas)