How To Use a Comma

Separate a series of three or more words, phrases, or clauses by inserting a comma after each item but the last. Do the same for a series of two or more adjectives that modify the same word.

Use a comma after an introductory clause, phrase, or word to set it off from the rest of the sentence. For example, “Bob didn’t mean to do it, but he did it anyway.”

Enclose nonessential phrases, clauses, or words in the middle of a sentence between a pair of commas. For example, “Moisture in the air, which is also referred to as humidity, makes people feel warmer.” Use one comma to set off nonessential items at the beginning or the end of a sentence.

Shift between a direct quotation and the identifying tag, or attribution, such as “she said,” using a comma.

Set off all geographical names, addresses, dates, and titles or degrees following a name with a comma.

Prevent ambiguity in sentences that can be confusing by using a comma to indicate a pause to readers.