1. There are many rules
for using commas.
You have already
learned three of them.
Module 5
Commas: Five Rules

2. 1. Use a comma…
 Before coordinating conjunctions in a compound
sentence.
Examples:
 Some people like to travel, and others prefer to stay
home.
 Dogs are good companions, and they also protect you.
 We wanted to go to the beach, but we had to save money.
Exception: Sometimes writers omit this comma in very
short sentences:
Dogs bark and cats meow.

3. 2. Use a comma…
 After prepositional phrases at the beginning
of a sentence.
Examples
 From my window, I have a beautiful view.
 Inside my desk, I keep many secrets.
 After lunch, my grandfather takes a nap.

4. 3. Use a comma…
 In a complex sentence when a dependent adverb
clause comes before an independent clause.
Examples
 After you take the pizza out of the oven, cut it into
eight pieces.
 Before you take the test, you should read the
questions carefully.
 While you wait, you can read a book.

5. Now read about two more rules

6. 4. Use a comma…
 After listing-order and time-order
signals (EXCEPT then).
Examples
 First, take the pizza out of the box.
 After that, fold the paper.
 Finally, you can enjoy the pizza.

7. Listing-order Signals
• First,
• First of all,
• Second,
• Third,
• In addition,
• Also,
• Finally,
Time-order Signals
• First,
• First of all,
• Second,
• Third,
• Next,
• After that,
• Finally,
• Then

8. 5. Use a comma…
 To separate items in a series. A series is three or
more things. These may be words or phrases (groups
of words).
Examples:
 Every morning I get up early, run a mile, take a
shower, eat breakfast, and feed my pets.
 One dog, one cat, two goldfish, a bird, and four
humans live at our house.
 Turn left at the stoplight, go one block, and turn
right.

9. 1. If there are three items in a series, some
writers omit the last comma. However, it is a
good idea to use all the commas because
commas make your meaning clearer.
 I have visited many countries in Europe, Asia,
and America.
 Shopping, relaxing, and visiting friends are my
favorite weekend activities.
Writer’s Tips

10. 2. With only two items, don't use any commas.
Examples:
 I have visited many countries in Europe and
Asia.
 Sleeping and hanging out with friends are
my favorite weekend activities.
Information taken from: Hogue, A. (2008). First
steps in academic writing. Longman: N.Y.