Commas Independent Clauses Nonessential Elements Use a comma

* Commas – Independent Clauses; Nonessential Elements

*Use a comma before coordinating conjunctions joining independent clauses *Review: * Coordinating conjunctions = and, but, nor, so, yet * Independent clause = complete thought; can stand alone *Example: * He wanted to play Clash of Clans, but his i. Pad was restricted. *

*Use a comma to set off elements which are not necessary to the meaning of the sentence. *My uncle, who just started working in Colorado, will be with us for the holidays. (My uncle will be with us for the holidays. Still makes sense. ) *The book Frankenstein; or the Modern Prometheus, which was first published in 1818, was written by Mary Shelley. *

*Do NOT use a comma when clauses or phrases are necessary to the meaning of the sentence. *The poem that we read yesterday in class can be used in your paper. (The poem can be used in your paper. Which poem? ) *The first person who turns in their paper will get candy. (The first person will get candy. Which first person? ) * WHEN WRITING: The use of commas determines what is essential vs. non-essential. * My sister, who is older than me, got a new car yesterday. (only one sister) * My sister who is older than me got a new car yesterday. (more than one sister- only talking about the one who is older) *