The Comma Splice
&
The 12 Correct Uses for Commas
Comma Splice

A comma splice error occurs when a comma is used between two
independent clauses (sentences).
(independent clause)
(independent clause)
There are several ways to fix this problem:
1. The comma can be replaced by a period, thereby creating two
independent sentences (clauses).
Our friend Lexi lives in Arizona. We want to visit her there.
2. The comma can be replaced by a semicolon.
Our friend Lexi lives in Arizona; we want to visit her there.
3. The comma can be used if a coordinating conjunction (FANBOY) is
present:
Our friend Lexi lives in Arizona, and we want to visit her there.
4. One clause can be made dependent by using a dependent marker
word:
Because our friend Lexi lives in Arizona, we want to visit her there.
Dependent marker words:

After
Although
As
As if
As soon as
Because
Before
Besides
But
Even if
Even
though
If
In case
Since
Though
Unless
Until
When
Which
While
Whether
Commas
The comma (,) is typically used to separate the different parts of a
sentence. There are 12 rules relating to the use of the comma that
you should be familiar with:
#1. Commas are used to separate
words in a series or list:
• Shannon, Jonah, and our friend
Ryan all sit in the back of the
room.
• Eddy, Clark, and the Morgan
Library are all buildings at CSU.
#2. Commas are used to separate adjectives (descriptive
words) when the word AND could also be inserted between
them:
1. Shane often forgets his reusable,
blue water bottle in class.
2. Our classroom is a long, narrow closet.
#3

#3. Commas are used to separate independent clauses (sentences)
when they are joined by any of the seven coordinating
conjunctions (FANBOYS):
 Tony Frank has round cheeks, and his facial hair is uniquely shaped.
 We went to the President’s meeting, but it was not easy to find.
The seven FANBOYS, also known as coordinating conjunctions,
include:
1. For 2. And 3. Nor 4. But 5. Or 6. Yet 7. So
#4

#4. Commas are used when an statement introduces the main part
of the sentence:
Introductory phrases including these words will be followed by a
comma:
 Although our class is at noon, I never hear any stomachs growl.
 Because Tony has three daughters, he knows how expensive
weddings should cost.
 After we went to the President’s meeting, Jade was unimpressed with
Tony’s answers.
#5
Commas are used after some introductory words such as:
However
At the same time

Well
Yes
Examples:
 Yes, I agree that commas are not an interesting topic.
 However, it was important that I teach commas to my English students.
 At the same time, I enjoy making up sentences with their names.
#6
Commas are used before, or surrounding the name or
title of a person who is being addressed DIRECTLY:

 How are you, Joey?
 Yes, Mr. Jordan, your argument on conceal-carry weapons is
very interesting.
*Note: In academic essays this would be rare. The only instance you
would used this type of language/commas is if it were in a quote, or
if you were writing a formal letter to someone.
#7
Commas are used to separate dates from years:

 November 23, 2013, is the day that your argumentative draft is
due.
 December 18, 2013, is the last day of the semester.
Note: If part of the date is left out, then the commas are omitted:
 December 2013 is the last month we will have class.
# 8: Commas are used to separate the name of a city
from the name of a state or country; a comma is also placed
after the state:
 My son was born in Denver, Colorado, in 2011.
 We are in Fort Collins, Colorado, at CSU.
#9: Commas are used to set off clauses, phrases, and
sentences in the middle of a sentence that are not necessary
to the meaning of the sentence:
 Patrick, who is a football player, is in my English class.
 Samantha, who wrote about world hunger, is an architecture major.
#10: Commas are used between a regular text and a quotation:
 John told the class, “I hate everything Patagonia!”
 After the teacher explained the assignment, the students asked the
teacher, “Do we have to?”
#11: Commas are used to separate a statement from a question:
 It is late, isn’t it?
 You are surprised, aren’t you?
#12: Commas are used to separate contrasting parts of sentences:
 Megan is always on time to class, never late.
 Kenya sits in the back of the room, not the front.
The Onion Video

http://ed.ted.com/lessons/making-sense-of-spelling-gina-cooke