Comma Rules: A Quick Guide To Perfecting Punctuations

What is a comma?

While a period ends a sentence, a comma indicates a smaller break. Some writers think of a comma as a soft pause — a punctuation mark that separates words, clauses, or ideas within a sentence.

Commas After Introductory Phrase

A comma normally follows participial phrases that introduce a sentence. As a rule of thumb, if the phrase is longer than about four words, use the comma. You can also use a comma with a shorter phrase when you want to emphasize it or add a pause for literary effect.

Example: Grabbing her umbrella, Meera raced out of the house. Confused by her sister’s sudden change in mood, Raghav stayed quiet.

Commas Within Comparisons

Don’t use a comma before “than” when you’re making a comparison.

Example:

1. Raghav is taller, than Meera. (incorrect)
2. Raghav is taller than Meera. (correct)

Comma with a Question Tag

A question tag is a short phrase or even a single word that is added to the end of a statement to turn it into a question. Writers often use question tags to encourage readers to agree with them. A question tag should be preceded by a comma.

Example:

1. These willow trees are beautiful, aren’t they?
2. I know, right?

Comma Before And

When you have a list that contains only two items, don’t use a comma before the and.

Example:

1. My dog Teddy is cute, and smart. (incorrect)
2. My dog Teddy is cute and smart. (correct)

Comma Before But

Use a comma before the word but if it is joining two independent clauses.

Example:

1. Lara is a good singer but she’s an even better dancer.
2. Lara is a good singer, but she’s an even better dancer.