The Eight Comma RULES

The Eight Comma RULES

Start

Commas in a series

#1

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list.

#1

Example

My favorite characters in the Odyssey are Odysseus, Athena, and Telemachus.

Commas with clauses and Conjunctions

#2

Use a comma to separate a dependent clause from an independent clause (If the dependent clause is first).

#2

Example

When the dog left, she was sad.

Commas with Introductory Words or Phrases

#3

Separate introductory elements such as transitions and dependent clauses (Use subordinate Conjunctions as a hint from the main sentence.

#3

Example

When the dog left, she was sad.

#4

Commas to Interrupt

Use commas to separate nonessential elements within a sentence.

#4

Example

I ran too far and, indeed, was sore the next day

#5

Commas to separate adjectives

Coordinate adjectives are adjectives with equal status when describing a noun.

#5

Example

Calypso was a jealous, stubborn woman.

#6

Commas to Contrast

Use commas to show a turn or change in a sentence.

#6

Example

That is my money, not yours.

#7

Commas with Quotes

ALWAYS set off quotations with commas.

#7

Example

The author responded, “I politely disagree.”

#8

Commas with dates, cities/states/countries, years, and titles

• John Smith, Ph.D.,
• Houston, TX
• April 10, 2025

#8

Example

The STAAR ELA EOC is on April 10, 2025. (NOTE: use a comma only if the exact date is included!)