Mastering Commas: Tips and Tricks

1. A little more about commas

2. Commas with 2 independent clauses (review) Use a comma + coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS) to separate 2 independent clauses. Coordinating conjunction(def): connects words or groups of words of equal importance in a sentence. FANBOYS (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Example: 1) His name is Abraham, and his friends call him Hamy.

3. Delete commas that disturb sentence flow Example: 1) From the eastern, (DELETE comma) shore came the sound. 2) The candidate was understood, (Delete comma) for who he really was. 3) The great player played a position, for which he is, best suited. Delete both commas.

4. Commas w/ appositives Appositive: a word or phrase that identifies or renames a noun or pronoun. Use commas to set-off an appositive that adds non essential information to the noun/pronoun. Example: 1) Lindblom, a school, is known for its achievement. 2) The newspaper followed Nancy, the newest member of the skydiving team.

5. Commas w/ asides Aside: a random statement that is less important than the focus of the sentence. Often spoken underneath someones breath. Example: 1) Her friend, I hesitate to say, has betrayed her.