What is a comma?

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Comma

Hayley, who is my best friend, should arrive any minute.

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Comma

Commas separate words, phrases and clauses within sentences.

The sentence still makes sense if you remove the information between the commas. If the information is essential to the meaning,

don’t put commas around it.

Commas also separate clauses joined by one of the coordinating conjunctions: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

Alex likes making model trucks, and Liam likes blowing them up.

A comma never just replaces a full stop — a conjunction must also be there.

Lauren after running far and fast for the bus took a few minutes to catch her breath.Loud fireworks started the carnival and a louder fire engine ended the carnival.He as far as I know doesn’t like chocolate.Everyone has seen the stars yet few people have explored them.The car started and we left in a hurry.

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Comma

Where do commas belong in these sentences?

, ,

,

, ,,

A comma is not needed if the clauses are short.

Oh, come on!

My aunt said, “You have the most adorable gecko.”“Aunty Fraser, you have a good eye for pets.”“I do, Chloe, I certainly do.”

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Comma

Commas separate dialogue from the rest of the sentence and show who is

being talked to.

Commas also separate interjections, asides and the words yes and no from answers.

Yes, the film starts at 2 pm.

An interjection expresses surprise or emotion.

An aside is an extra comment, which are common in speech.Well, let’s get some dinner.

Hey who stole my lunch box?

You don’t want to eat now do you?

“We drifted for days without water” croaked the weary survivor.

No Ali you may not watch television now.

“Not likely” said Mum “not likely at all.”

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Comma

Where do commas belong in these sentences?

,

,

,

, ,

, ,

This question clause is separated by a comma.

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Comma

• Punctuation helps others to understand our writing.

• A comma (,) is a separating punctuation mark. It shows a short pause.

• It separates:– parts of sentences (e.g. Mr Thistlewaite, our

new coach, can run as fast as anyone.)– clauses joined by a conjunction (e.g. I’m ready

to go, but you don’t have your shoes on yet.)– parts of dialogue (e.g. “Finbar, please close the

door,” she asked.)

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Comma

The End