Comma Rules — Answer Key
Part A: Multiple Choice
Circle the best answer for each question.
1. How does the comma change the meaning? "Let's eat, Grandma!" vs. "Let's eat Grandma!"
A) The comma makes the sentence a question.
B) The comma shows you are talking to Grandma, not eating her.
C) The comma is optional and changes nothing.
D) The comma makes "Grandma" the subject of the sentence.
The comma signals direct address — you are calling out to Grandma, not suggesting eating her.
2. Why are commas needed in this sentence? "The recipe calls for flour, sugar, butter, and eggs."
A) To make the sentence longer and more formal.
B) To show that each ingredient is a separate item in the list.
C) To connect two complete thoughts together.
D) To rename the noun "recipe" with more detail.
Commas separate items in a series, showing that each ingredient is distinct.
3. Read: "My friend who lives next door came over." vs. "My friend, who lives next door, came over." What is the difference?
A) The first sentence is incorrect and needs commas.
B) The commas in the second sentence show the writer has only one friend and the detail is extra.
C) The second sentence is a compound sentence.
D) There is no difference in meaning between the two sentences.
Without commas, 'who lives next door' identifies which friend (essential). With commas, it is extra info — the writer has only one friend.
4. Which comma rule explains why a comma is needed in "However, the game was canceled"?
A) Comma in a series of three items.
B) Comma before a FANBOYS conjunction.
C) Comma after an introductory word or transition.
D) Comma around an appositive phrase.
'However' is an introductory transition word and requires a comma after it.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the correct answer on each line.
1. Commas help readers read sentences correctly by showing where to pause.
Commas guide readers through sentences by marking pauses and separating elements.
2. Without commas in a list, a reader might group the wrong items together.
Without commas, list items may run together and be misread as a single unit.
3. A comma after an introductory element tells the reader where the main idea begins.
The comma separates the introductory element from the main clause, helping the reader locate the main idea.
4. Removing commas around an appositive can change whether the information is extra or essential.
Commas signal non-essential (extra) information; without commas, the same words may be read as essential.
5. In formal writing, using commas correctly helps the reader understand the writer's intended meaning.
Correct comma usage clarifies meaning and prevents misreading.