Commas: How to use them

Commas are used to make our writing clear and concise, and we are taught from a young age just how important they are. However, commas can be used in multiple ways and have different purposes. This blog post will outline some of the many ways you can use commas correctly, regardless of whether you are writing, editing, or proofreading.

Comma splice

You will find a comma splice when two main clauses are connected by a comma, which is incorrect. Ideally, the words on either side of the comma should form their independent sentences.

Example: I like swimming very much, I go to the pool every week

To fix the comma splice in this sentence, you can connect the two clauses with a full stop, with a conjunction, or with a colon/semicolon.

Example: I like swimming very much, and go to the pool every week

It is important to make sure that before changing the punctuation in a sentence to fix a comma splice, you are not changing the meaning of the sentence by making this change. If an author has opted to use comma splices, it is usually to avoid ambiguity and confusion. I personally like the use of Oxford commas, but some people despise them! As long as you are being consistent, you will be fine.

Introductory clauses/adverbs

You will want to use a comma in order to separate an adverb or subordinate clause from the main clause.

Example: Finally, I finished reading that book you recommended

You need the comma in the above example, otherwise, the sentence won’t really make sense. However, there are instances where you can omit the comma (usually if the sentence is short or involves time or location) and have the sentence avoid appearing cluttered.

Example: Today I had a meeting

As always, check the house/style guide you are working with for direct instructions on how to use commas when dealing with introductory clauses and adverbs.

Serial comma

A serial comma is typically found before the penultimate item in a list. Usually, serial commas are used in lists of three or more items, and are followed by ‘and’ or ‘or’. More commonly known as the Oxford comma, the usage of this extra comma in lists is widely debated.

Example: I offer proofreading, copyediting, and manuscript critiquing

The previous list makes sense without the extra comma, but some publishers might specifically ask for comma splices to be adhered to in their house/style guide. The style must remain consistent throughout a manuscript, therefore if you notice a discrepancy in regards to how comma splices are used, raise a query.

For more information on commas and how to use them, I would recommend Chapter 4.3 in New Hart’s Rules: The Oxford Style Guide (2014) which delves deeper into commas, including restrictive and non-restrictive uses, separating adjectives, and how commas are used in letters.

Lauren Ternent | The Editorial Geordie