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COMMAS

 

Rule #6
Commas and Coordination

Rule:Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction joining independent clauses.

       

An independent clause is another name for a simple sentence. The clause has a subject and a verb which make a complete statement.

         

  Examples: The students write well.
    The instructor is pleased.
     

                              

These are independent clauses. When you join independent clauses with a coorinating conjunction, add a comma before the conjunction.

           Example:      The students write well, and the instructor is pleased.

Coordinating conjunctions are the following: and, nor, but, or, for, so, and yet.

      

  Examples:  
  • The students write well, for they want to increase their confidence.
   
  • The students write well, but they want to improve their skills.
   
  • The students take English 101 with a lecture, or they can take English 101 over the Internet.
   
  • The students, write well, yet they want to learn more.
   
  • The students write well, so they can get a better job.
   
  • The students don't copy other essays, nor do they come to class late.

     

The comma signals the end of one independent clause and the beginning of another independent clause.

 

*Writing Tip: Be careful when you see a coordinating conjunction. It may not join independent clauses. It may join subjects or verbs. Then you cannot write a comma before the conjunction.

                 Example:      John and Mary are students. The student discusses the topic and writes ideas                                       about the topic.

 

 


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