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Six Main Uses of the Comma

The primary purpose of the comma is to indicate to a reader when a sentence calls for a brief pause. Additionally, the comma defines, supports, and reinforces various grammatical structures and grammatical units. Finally, the comma is used to create sentences that employ coordination and subordination and that add variety to the writing.

This section is divided into two parts. Part I discusses the six main uses of the comma. Part II discusses the errors most commonly associated with the use of commas. If you are interested in general study of the comma, consult Part I. If your instructor has identified specific comma errors in your writing, you might want to consult Part II first.

Part I: The Six Main Uses of the Comma

There are six main uses of the comma. Click on one of the six uses to see a description of that use and some examples to illustrate it.

1. To separate items in a series
2. After introductory words and phrases
3. Before and after words and phrases that interrupt the flow of the sentence
4. Before a coordinating conjunction
5. With direct quotations
6. For everyday material such as dates, addresses, and the like

Part II: Three Common Comma Errors

There are three common errors associated with the use of commas: the comma splice, overuse of the comma, and choppy sentences. Sometimes, instructors will use a special type of jargon to indicate a comma error. Some of the jargon is listed below. So, if you find in the list one or more of the jargon words that your instructor used in your writing, click on the jargon word to see a fuller description of the comma error and some examples of how to correct it.

1. Comma Splice, or CS
2. Overuse, or "Too Many Commas"
3. Choppy Sentences