Where and when to use commas.

1. Comma Usage
This presentation will give you
pointers on how to know when to
use commas

2. Separating Lists
When there are more than 2 items in a list, commas
are used
I will buy socks, shoes, and pants at the mall.
The girl loved popcorn, soda and ice cream.

3. Phrases
Commas are used to set apart phrases
 Since the beginning of time, dinosaurs have
roamed the Earth
 I love to watch cartoons on Saturday , in
spite of their silliness.

4. Clauses

Commas are also used to separate clauses

Dependent clauses
 When I was young, I loved to eat
bananas.
 I have enough money to buy new shoes ,
although I don't need them.

5. Clauses
Commas are used to separate clauses

Independent clauses
 I am sure that I paid the water bill, but I
will pay it again just in case.
 I love to swim under water, and I love to
try to touch the bottom of the pool.

6. Example #1 - Lists
Should I buy the dress the skirt or the
pants?
Where would the comma be placed?
The comma should come after “dress”
Should I buy the dress, the skirt or the pants is
correct.

7. Example #2 - Phrases

Yes I would like to go with you to the ball
game.

Where would the comma be placed?

The comma should be placed after “Yes”

Yes, I would like to go with you to the ball
game.

8. Example #3 – Dependent Clause
If the sky is dark we will cancel the fireworks.
Where would the comma be placed?
The comma would go after “dark”
If the sky is dark, we will cancel the fireworks.

9. Example #4 – Independent Clause
When I go to the park by myself I always get an
eerie feeling.
Where would the comma be placed?
It should be placed after “myself”.
When I go to the park by myself, I always get an
eerie feeling.

10. Example #4 – Independent Clause
When I go to the park by myself I always get an
eerie feeling.
Where would the comma be placed?
It should be placed after “myself”.
When I go to the park by myself, I always get an
eerie feeling.