Commas got you down? Comma usage is one of those things that can be easily overlooked and yet very important. Pay attention, and find out how to get it right, Jack!
Basic Principles
Before looking at a few of the more commonly confused comma conundrums (did you see what I just did there?), let’s consider a few basic rules of thumb regarding when and when not to use commas.
1. First, when in doubt, leave it out. In the hierarchy of punctuation errors, a missing comma is not as serious as an unnecessary comma. So don’t be afraid to just leave it if you’re not absolutely sure it belongs.
2. Second, think of a comma as a bookend, not a pause. People often insert commas for dramatic effect, but the only effect it results in is cheesiness and loss of credibility. If you want people to take you seriously, insert commas to divide independent clauses and elements in a list or to separate out something. Don’t just insert it where you would typically pause mid-sentence. Don’t be such a drama queen.
3. Thirdly, add a comma to avoid confusion. For example, shouldn’t there be a comma somewhere in this sentence:
Let’s eat Grandma!
If it will save your grandma’s life and cause less confusion, add a comma so it reads, “Let’s eat, Grandma!” Ah, that’s better.
Specifics: When to Use and Not Use Commas
While this list is in no way exhaustive, it should provide you with a few helpful pointers.
• Before “But”
If there is a “but” in the sentence, insert a comma before it only if an independent clause follows. And for those who need a refresher, an independent clause is one with both a subject and a verb. You’re welcome.
• Before “And”
The same is true with “and” if there is an independent clause following it. Without that comma, you have a run-on sentence. If there is no independent clause following it, you may still need a comma, however. For example, in a list of things, you separate the elements with commas:
I need my keys, wallet, and coffee.
• Before “Because”
This one is a bit more subjective. It’s typically unnecessary to include a comma before “because” unless it is confusing to leave it out. The Chicago Manual of Style uses the following example:
He didn’t run because he was afraid.
He didn’t run, because he was afraid.
In the first example, he might have stayed put because he was afraid. But on the other hand, it might be saying fear was not the reason he ran. In the second, the comma tells us that the point of the sentence is that he ran, regardless of the reason. Either way, he was a scaredy-cat loser.
• Before Conjunctions
If you have a conjunction like “so” or “for” connecting two independent clauses, there had better be a comma before the conjunction. Otherwise, you have a run-on sentence. Incidentally, if you have the comma but no conjunction, you have a comma splice. And if you have all of these rules memorized, you probably have no life.
Improve your writing and communications skills with these comma rules. And if you do, your writing will be more effective, credible, and persuasive. And if you share this post with your friends, you will get 7 years good luck…pretty sure.
