Commas:

oSeparate items in a seriesoEx. The dishes, pots, and pans need to be washed

oSeparate two or more adjectivesoEx. John is a humble, innocent child.

oBefore for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so when they separate independent clauses.

oEx. We could read the book, or we could wait to see the movie.

Commas

• To set off nonessential clauses– Ex. His sayings, stated simply and directly, express

wisdom.

• After introductory elements– Ex. No, I have not read that book.• Looking calm, Jill walked to the podium

• To set off interruptions– Ex. Your research paper, Dylan, is very interesting

Conventional situations:• To separate items in dates and

addresses– Ex. April 8, 2000– 315 Wayne Court, Danuba, California

• After the salutation or closing of a letter– Dear Alicia,– Sincerely,

• To set off abbreviations such as Jr., Sr., RN, M.D., Ltd., or Inc.– Jorge Rivera, Jr.– Flowers by Algernon, Inc.