1. Use commas to separate two complete sentences when they are joined by any of the following seven coordinating conjunctions (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So) Notice that you can remember these by using the mnemonic FANBOYS. Example: The dog howled at the door, but I did not let him in.

2. Set off introductory words, phrases, or dependent clauses with a comma. Notice the word introductory which means those words, phrases, or dependent clauses which come before the independent sentence. Phrases or dependent clauses which come at the end of the sentence require no comma. Example: Because he forgot to wind his watch, he was late for an appointment. He was late for an appointment because he forgot to wind his watch.

3. Use commas to separate three or more words, phrases, or clauses in a series. Examples: I bought corn, apples, potatoes, and chicken at the store. Janice hopes to finish high school, attend college, and get a great job.

4. Use commas to set off non-essential words or phrases which interrupt the main sentence. You will need to use one comma before the interrupter and one after the interrupter. If the interrupter is necessary to the clarity of the sentence, no commas are needed. Examples: I will not, on the other hand, need to attend night classes. Bananas, which are a good source of potassium, are my favorite fruit. The boy wearing the red suspenders threw the rock. (the interrupter lets us know which boy)

5. Use a comma to separate the direct quotation (actual words spoken) from its attribution (who said it). Examples: Grover said, "Today is a very unique state of existence." "To be or not to be," Hamlet agonized. "These are the times," he interrupted, "that I despise!"

6. Use commas to set off all geographical names, items in dates (except the month and day), addresses (except the street name and number), and titles which follow names. Examples: Nevada, Missouri, is not pronounced like the state of Nevada. December 7, 1941, is a day which will live in infamy. Marcus Welby, M.D., was the name of a once popular TV drama.

7. Use commas to separate two or more coordinate adjectives describing the same noun. The key here is being able to place the conjunction "and" between them or being able to reverse the adjectives and retain the meaning. Examples: The generous, jovial man was well liked in the community. No one likes a greedy, stubborn child.

8. Use commas near the end of the sentence to indicate a distinct voice shift or to separate sharply contrasted coordinate elements. Examples: You're going to attend the meeting, aren't you? Cassandra was merely naive, not stupid.