Comma Use.
Punctuation is an equally important part of the accurate written speech.
Below you can find a list of most common rules which will help you use comma correctly.
- In sentences with 2 clauses divided by the following conjunctions: and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet.
It was my first trip abroad, so I was very nervous.
The test was not very difficult, yet I struggled to finish on time.
- In sentences starting with introductory adverbs such as however, moreover, meanwhile, also, of course, etc., or common phrases.
The tour starts in a minute. Meanwhile, you can have a look around the main hall.
The flat was bright and clean. Moreover, it took only 5 minutes from the tube station to get there.
Because she was late, we missed the train.
Once we settled in, we started looking for a new job.
When I arrive, I will give you a call.
- In sentences starting with participial or infinitive phrases.
Having said that, she left the room.
To reserve a ticket, you should contact our ticket office.
- In the middle of a sentence to indicate and separate nonrestrictive clauses or phrases (they provide extra information which is not essential for the sentence).
My uncle Andrew, a complete bachelor, has finally decided to marry.
Alison, who is usually always on time, arrived 1 hour later.
- In sentences with three or more words, phrases or clauses of the same series.
The new manager asked to arrange a meeting, prepare the agenda, and update the database.
We ordered fish, salad, and cheese.
- In sentences with 2 or more coordinate adjectives (those which can be place in reverse order and/or divided by “and”).
He had a warm, cosy room.
To get there, you have to walk on a slippery, narrow road.
- In direct speech to separate the quotation.
Andy said, “I look forward to meeting you.”
“I can’t come today”, Lilly replied.
