When and Where to Use a Comma: Part 2!

Click here to read the first part of this article.

Last week, TextRanch published some comma guidelines and quick tips on usage.

But we couldn’t cover everything in just one article, which is why a follow-up was needed. The rules today are a little more advanced, so please pay close attention! Without further ado, we present to you 5 MORE rules to remember:

We at TextRanch have recognized this struggle, and this is our response to it! Getting right to the point, here are five more situations in which commas are needed:  

1. After introductory clauses

Short dependent clauses are often used to start sentences. In these situations, insert a comma right at the end.

Example:

After waking up early, the distance runner went for a leisurely jog.

2. When giving a direct answer to a question

With yes/no responses, we represent the natural pause that is taken in speech with a comma.
Example:

A – “Would you like to have lunch together?” B – “Sure, I’d love to join you.”

3. To set off nonessential information

Excess info can sometimes pop up in the middle of a sentence. When this occurs, set it off with punctuation.

Example:

Our family doctor, who is 55 years old, prescribed a strong antibiotic.

4. Between coordinate adjectives

Here’s the rule: If you can place “and” between two adjectives, a comma is needed in the middle.
Example:

The long, winding road led to the eerie, deserted lighthouse.

5. After “i.e.” and “e.g.”

This last one is simple but easy to forget! Just follow these abbreviations with a comma.
Example:

Cinemas show various types of films (e.g., action, romance, comedy).

Whoa, that was a lot to take in! But if you’ve read both parts of our comma guide, you are well on your way to becoming a master of English punctuation.

Click here to see part one here if you missed it.

And before you go, please know that there are still a few more comma guidelines we’d like to share, so look out for the final part of this series next week!

It’s the grand finale!    

Have a great day! ♥