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In this week's post, we'll be looking at the basics of how to use one of the most common punctuation marks. It's shocking to think that the vast majority of people don't know how to punctuate properly. Now, you might think that punctuation isn't very important compared to content, but punctuation affects how your content comes across. It's not just something to sprinkle in randomly - a comma here, an ellipsis there - but rather a way to strengthen your writing and give it clarity.
When used properly punctuation can be a powerful tool that should not be underestimated. This week we'll start with the mark most frequently used incorrectly: the long-suffering comma.
The Comma
The comma can be a complex case, stemming from the fact that there are so many possible ways to use it. So to help you avoid staccato sentences and run-on reveries, let's look at some examples of how to use the lovely comma.
1) Commas are used before coordinating conjunctions.
Use commas in front of the following conjunctions if they separate two independent clauses (i.e. if both parts of the sentence can stand logically on their own): and, but, for, nor, yet, or, so.
The dog ate so much food, yet it always wanted more.
She hated cooking, so she only got microwave meals.
Note: Always place the comma before the conjunction and not after it.
1.1) Because I say so.
Usually you shouldn't use a comma with the conjunction 'because' unless the meaning of the sentence is unclear without it.
I threw the book away because its pages were unreadable. (Meaning clear, no comma needed.)
I didn't throw the book away because its pages were readable. (What? Did you throw it away for a different reason then? Or did you not throw it away because you could indeed read the pages?)
I didn't throw the book away, because its pages were readable. (Ah, so you kept it because it was still readable. Got it.)
2) The Comma Splice
This is probably the most common mistake made with a comma.
I'm an easy-going person, I get along well with everyone I meet.
You see, the comma splice takes place when you connect two independent clauses with a comma. In other words, you connect two clauses that can logically stand on their own with a comma, with no conjunction in sight. Believe it or not, this is technically incorrect.
I'm dying to go on holiday, I think I'll go to Spain next month.
To avoid a comma splice, you could add a conjunction or play around with other types of punctuation.
I'm an easy-going person, so I get along well with everyone I meet.
I'm dying to go on holiday; I think I'll go to Spain next month.
I'm dying to go on holiday. I think I'll go to Spain next month.
3) Commas are used to separate the items in a list of three things or more.
My favourite colours are orange, red and brown.
3.1) What about the Oxford comma?
There is some debate about whether you should use a comma to separate the last two items in a list (called the Oxford comma). To keep things simple, let's use it only if there is a danger of getting the items of the list confused.
I'd like to thank my parents, Jodie Foster and Bob Dylan. (Your parents are Jodie Foster and Bob Dylan?!)
I'd like to thank my parents, Jodie Foster, and Bob Dylan. (Oh, you're thanking them all separately. Got it.)
My favourite flavours of cake are red velvet, vanilla, and chocolate and strawberry.
In the last example you can include the Oxford comma before the first 'and' to show that 'chocolate and strawberry' go together as a single flavour.
4) Commas are used to separate introductory parts of a sentence from the main part.
In the wee hours of the morning, Jenny packed her things and left.
Due to technical difficulties, we were unable to watch the match.
If the introductory element is very short, let's say less than four words, it's possible to leave out the comma.
In a moment they will be speaking.
After lunch they all felt better.
After a delicious lunch of toasted sandwiches, they all felt better.
Do include a comma even if the introductory element is less than four words, but the meaning of the sentence could be confusing without it.
Until the winter classes will be held in here. (What? Then what will happen?)
Until the winter, classes will be held in here. (Oh, got it.)
5) Use commas to separate parts of a sentence that express contrast.
The tree was impressive, but terrifying.
She is a hard worker, not a genius.
The first thing he noticed was her shrill voice, not her lovely face.
The examples above don't cover the entire range of comma use, but they're certainly enough to get you moving in the right direction. But heed this: Although they might be a great standard to stick to, you shouldn't drive yourself mad agonising over every single comma you put on paper. Also note that exams are probably not the best time to try and stick to them 100%, especially if it's going to cause you to lose valuable time. And sometimes good flow just calls for an unauthorised comma, it happens!
Practice these rules in your free time or when doing assignments and you'll follow them automatically come exam time. Don't worry about perfect punctuation; just do your best. And keep an eye out for more posts in our basics of punctuation series!
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