What are commas?
Commas are punctuation marks that help organize words and ideas in a sentence. They make sentences clearer and easier to read.
- I like apples, bananas, and grapes.
- The dog ran fast, jumped high, and barked loudly.
Commas tell the reader to pause slightly and help separate ideas.
Using commas in a series
A series is a list of three or more words, phrases, or ideas in a sentence. Commas are used to separate each item in the list.
- We bought pencils, crayons, and paper.
- She ran, skipped, and laughed at the park.
Use a comma after each item in the list except the last one.
Comma before the last item
In a series, a comma is placed before the word and or or when it comes before the last item.
- I see a cat, a dog, and a bird.
- For lunch, we had soup, sandwiches, and fruit.
This comma helps make the sentence clear and avoids confusion.
Commas with adjectives in a series
Commas are also used when two or more adjectives describe the same noun.
- She has a kind, helpful teacher.
- It was a long, tiring day.
If you can place the word and between the adjectives, a comma is usually needed.
When not to use commas in a series
Do not use commas when there are only two items or when the words are not part of a list.
- I like milk and cookies. (No comma needed)
- She went to school after breakfast. (Not a series)
Commas in a series are only used when listing three or more items.