20 Comma Rules

1. **Separating Items in a List:**

   - Use commas to separate items in a list.

     - Example: She bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

2. **Coordinating Conjunctions:**

   - Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction that connects independent clauses.

     - Example: I enjoy hiking, but my friend prefers swimming.

3. **Introductory Elements:**

   - Use a comma after introductory words, phrases, or clauses at the beginning of a sentence.

     - Example: However, the weather was not ideal for a picnic.

4. **Nonessential Elements:**

   - Use commas to set off nonessential elements or information within a sentence.

     - Example: My sister, who lives in Paris, is an artist.

5. **Conjunctive Adverbs:**

   - Use a comma before a conjunctive adverb that joins two independent clauses.

     - Example: He studied hard; therefore, he aced the exam.

6. **Direct Address:**

   - Use commas to set off the name or title of a person directly addressed.

     - Example: Maria, pass me the salt, please.

7. **Dates and Addresses:**

   - Use commas to separate elements in dates and addresses.

     - Example: The meeting is scheduled for January 15, 2023, in New York.

8. **Quotations:**

   - Use a comma before a quotation when it is introduced by a complete sentence.

     - Example: She said, "I'll be there by 7 PM."

9. **Joining Independent Clauses:**

   - Use a comma with a coordinating conjunction to join two independent clauses.

     - Example: The sun was setting, and the stars began to appear.

10. **Parenthetical Expressions:**

    - Use commas to set off parenthetical expressions within a sentence.

      - Example: The concert, which lasted for three hours, was captivating.

11. **Dependent Clauses:**

    - Use a comma to separate a dependent clause from the independent clause if it comes first.

      - Example: Although she studied hard, she didn't perform well.

12. **Appositives:**

    - Use commas to set off appositives (phrases that rename or explain a noun).

      - Example: My friend, the doctor, is coming over tonight.

13. **Transition Words:**

    - Use a comma after certain transition words (e.g., however, therefore, moreover) that connect ideas.

      - Example: Moreover, the budget needs to be revised.

14. **Contrast:**

    - Use commas to set off contrasting elements in a sentence.

      - Example: The plan was ambitious, not realistic.

15. **Lists within Sentences:**

    - Use commas to separate items within a sentence when creating lists.

      - Example: I need to buy eggs, milk, and bread for breakfast.

16. **Adjective Order:**

    - Use commas when there are multiple adjectives modifying a noun, and their order can be switched.

      - Example: She wore a beautiful, long dress to the party.

17. **Numbers:**

    - Use commas to separate groups of three digits in numbers.

      - Example: The population of the city is 1,234,567.

18. **Cause and Effect:**

    - Use a comma when expressing cause-and-effect relationships.

      - Example: The rain continued to fall, causing flooding in low-lying areas.

19. **Time Elements:**

    - Use commas to set off certain time elements in a sentence.

      - Example: In the morning, I always go for a jog.

20. **Compound Sentences:**

    - Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction in a compound sentence.

      - Example: She wanted to go to the concert, but she had a prior commitment.