 Grammar: Punctuation [ 2008-09-24 14:58 ]
Question: How do I know where to put a comma and where not to put one?
Grammar: Punctuation
When do we use commas?
? In a list of things – A dog, a cat, a frog and a goat
? Before but, and, so and small conjunctions – I ran, but I missed the bus, so I took a taxi.
? After introductory elements – Running for the bus, I lost my shoe. Consequently, I had to go back home.
? In non-defining relative clauses – My sister, who is always late, missed her bus.
? Before quotes – She asked, “Why does this always happen?”
Common errors:
? No commas between subjects and verbs: One of the most valuable skills to learn during your university years, is typing. Incorrect
? No commas between two verbs with a common predicate: We danced for a while, and then went home. Incorrect.
? No comma after main clause but before subordinate clause: We missed the bus, because my sister was late. Incorrect.
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