Learn how to use comma properly:
Using Comma can be tricky sometimes specially if you are new with learning English Language. Wrong use of punctuations is the most common mistakes in IELTS writing. In today’s article we will study about how to use the comma correctly. Out of all punctuation mark in English, comma is the most confusing one. Below you will the guidance to where to put the comma.
1. In lists
The most simplest and the common use of comma is to separate words and phrases when there are three or more of them.
Examples:
People today often have many unhealthy habits including eating food that is high in calories, having a sedentary lifestyle, and drinking too much alcohol.
Govid was practicing his game by hitting the ball, dropping his bat and ran to his first base.
TOP TIP
A lot of students end lots with “etc” – however, this is not necessary. It is better to have THREE ITEMS in a list and simply end after the third.
People often eat fast food, such as burgers, pizza, ice cream and etc. –> WRONG
People often eat fast food, such as burgers, pizza, and ice cream. –> RIGHT
2. Before coordinating conjunctions
Use commas before coordinating conjunctions such as and, but, or, and so in compound sentences (A compound sentence is a sentence that has at least two independent clauses joined by a comma, semicolon or conjunction. An independent clause is a clause that has a subject and verb and forms a complete thought. An example of a compound sentence is, ‘This house is too expensive, and that house is too small)
Examples:
Perhaps no budget is without some fat, but company officials argue that their unique function requires special standards set of evaluation.
3. Separate multiple adjectives modifying the same noun
We use commas to separate a series of adjectives which modify the same noun.
Example: The tall, attractiveboy is my boyfriend.
4. After introductory adverbs, phrases, or clauses
Use commas after the following types of introductory adverbs or phrases.
– After introductory adverbs
Example: Ironically, the same people supported him to start his own company who were against him in the start.
– After transitional words
Example: Many, consequently, struggle when their first enter the workplace
– After prepositional phrases
Example: In the earlier times, it took much more time for people to travel abroad.
– After words, such as “said” and before a quotation
Example: John said, “I really want go outside and play with my brothers and sisters.”
Above mentioned are few rules that need to be followed using Commas. You should study these rules and practice writing example sentences of your own. Do cross check your answers while attempting writing module whether your sentences fall into the categories above or not. As I said there are many reasons for using commas, and we haven’t listed them all. Also remember a pause in reading not always a reliable reason to use a comma. Try not to use a comma if it doesn’t fall under the specific rule from this page. Using the comma’s correctly give the examiner an overview on how good your command in your structure forming and punctuations.
Thank You 🙂
