Comma Rules Practice 5 Answer Key

  1. Use a comma before a coordinate conjunction (and, but, or, nor, so, for, yet) in a compound sentence. 

I am not complaining, but I am stating my rather unhappy opinion.

  1. Commas are usually used after introductory words, phrases, and clauses.

When you leave today, remember your umbrella.
From the roof, I could see for miles.
Furthermore, I would like you to mow the lawn.
Yes, Santa Claus, there is no Virginia.

  1. Use commas to set off items in a series of three or more.

Of the letters X, Y, and Z, I prefer Z.

  1. Use commas to set off coordinate adjectives not joined by and.

The tired, ambitious clerk usually worked through lunch and stayed late.

  1. Use commas around words, phrases, and clauses that interrupt the flow of a sentence (and are not essential to the meaning).

I never was, by the way, a hippie.
She was, however, too tired to continue studying.

  1. Use commas to set off contrasted elements, geographical names, and most items in dates.

Cats, but not dogs, own themselves.
Maria was born in Rockledge, Florida, on August 16, 2002, at 10:20 p.m.

Insert commas as needed in the following sentences.  Not all sentences need commas. Write the rule number that justifies your use of the comma.

  1. Nestled in the woods of the Shenandoah Valley, this resort offers canoeing, tubing, and hiking.    Comma Rule 2
  2. Despite differences in size and facilities, each campground must meet standards of excellence.   Comma Rule 2
  3. The KOA awards Gold, Silver, Bronze, and New Owner rating awards.
    Comma Rule 3
  4. If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague. 
    Comma Rule 2
  5. He who hesitates is probably right.  NO COMMAS
  6. When a person smiles at things that go wrong, he probably has someone else in mind to blame.  Comma Rule 2
  7. I love cooking with wine, and sometimes I even put it in the food.
    Comma Rule 1
  8. While everyone has a photographic memory, some just don't have film.
    Comma Rule 2
  9. Dogs have owners, but cats have staff.  Comma Rule 1
  10. Though we cannot change the direction of the wind, we can adjust our sails.  Comma Rule 2

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