Master the Comma

RULE 1: Use a single comma between major parts of sentences.

For example, use a comma between

• Two independent clauses joined with “and” or “but”
• A dependent clause and an independent clause
• An introductory phrase (beginning with a preposition or an –ing word) and an independent clause
• An independent clause and an -ing phrase at the end of a sentence

RULE 2: Use commas in pairs to set off phrases, words, or clauses that interrupt the main structure of a sentence.

RULE 3: Use commas to separate items in a list.