Comma Rules — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A comma is used after an introductory word, phrase, or clause at the start of a sentence.
Introductory elements (words, phrases, or clauses) at the start of a sentence are followed by a comma.
2. The sentence "I like soccer, basketball, and tennis" uses commas in a series.
Items in a series (list) are separated by commas.
3. In the sentence "My brother, who is ten, plays the drums," the phrase "who is ten" is an appositive.
An appositive renames or gives extra information about a nearby noun and is set off by commas.
4. Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction that joins two complete sentences.
A comma precedes a FANBOYS conjunction joining two independent clauses.
5. The words For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, and So are called coordinating conjunctions.
Coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS) join two equal grammatical elements.
6. An appositive is a word or phrase that renames or identifies a nearby noun.
An appositive renames or clarifies the noun it follows.
7. In "Well, I think we should leave now," the word "Well" is an introductory element.
'Well' at the start of a sentence is an introductory word followed by a comma.
8. A compound sentence has two independent clauses joined by a conjunction.
A compound sentence has two independent clauses (each can stand alone) joined by a coordinating conjunction.
9. The Oxford comma appears before the last item in a list of three or more.
The Oxford comma is placed before the last item in a series: 'A, B, and C.'
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
"We need glue, scissors, and tape for the project."
→ Commas separating items in a series
Comma before conjunction in a compound sentence
"She wanted to go hiking, but the trail was closed."
→ Comma before conjunction in a compound sentence
Commas around an appositive that renames a noun
"During the storm, the lights flickered on and off."
→ Comma after an introductory phrase
Commas separating items in a series
"Our principal, Mr. Daniels, announced the field trip."
→ Commas around an appositive that renames a noun
Comma after an introductory phrase
First = series; second = compound sentence (but); third = introductory phrase (During the storm); fourth = appositive (Mr. Daniels).