For many writers, the comma is the most misunderstood piece of punctuation. This guide will address the most common uses for the comma.

Sep 25, 2009 - Kari Lomanno

Learn what a comma is, how a comma functions, and how to properly use commas in writing.

Nov 23, 2008 - Tracey Carter

The comma is the most frequently used punctuation in writing. Learn where and how to use it.

Sep 20, 2010 - Arden Aniston

Like grammar's sheepdogs, commas keep the elements of a sentence from running off on their own and causing confusion and panic.

Jun 30, 2010 - Rebecca Coates

Sometimes students misuse commas in their essays in hopes of avoiding red marks on their papers. But misusing a comma is just as bad as forgetting one.

Jan 8, 2011 - Cynthia Jones-Shoeman

The acronym LUCI helps writers to remember to use commas with lists, unnecessary elements, coordinating conjunctions, and introductory phrases.

Jun 8, 2009 - Laura Steer

Learning when to use commas in introductory phrases will improve your writing, clarify your prose, and help readers get past the sentences and to the main ideas.

Oct 6, 2008 - Megan B. Wyatt

All the ands, buts, and ors about using commas in a list. Learning the basic rules will aid your writing whether you're shooting an email or writing a business document.

Aug 21, 2008 - Megan B. Wyatt

This article will tell what a comma splice is, correct it and when this error is not necessarily an error.

May 8, 2007 - Karen Reiser

The comma is, perhaps, the most misunderstood of all punctuation marks. When are commas absolutely necessary in writing?

Oct 9, 2010 - Cynthia Jones-Shoeman

If writers can identify fused sentences and comma splices and know how to correct them, they are far more likely to get their messages clearly across to readers.

Sep 4, 2009 - Carol Rzadkiewicz

There are established rules governing comma usage, and if a writer knows these rules, then he or she can avoid misusing the lowly comma.

May 24, 2009 - Carol Rzadkiewicz

By learning when not to use a comma, you can avoid producing written communications that are often awkward and confusing for readers.

Dec 19, 2010 - Carol Rzadkiewicz

Believe it or not, there are times when a comma can be used but is not necessary. Here are three such instances.

Jan 22, 2011 - Cynthia Jones-Shoeman

This rule sounds fairly simple, and it is-unless it's not clear how many items you have or whether or not the elements of a sentence constitute items.

Oct 18, 2009 - Greg Gildersleeve

The Oxford Comma is the comma in a list that goes before the "and" or "or" that precedes the last item in the list. But when should it be used?

May 23, 2010 - Steve Rogerson

By putting to memory the basic grammar rules of commas and pronoun usage, employees and students will enhance their communication skills and careers.

Apr 27, 2010 - Lori Bosworth

Better writing has correct punctuation; improper comma usage leads to confusing sentences. Learn when to use commas for correct grammar and punctuation.

Jul 2, 2010 - Lisa Devoto

Across many college campuses today, writing excellently and effectively is a dilemma for many students. What should we do about it? Just read on!

Jan 7, 2011 - Samuel Doku

The following article explains the rules for using commas in numbers, dates, places, titles, direct address, and interjections in written English.

Mar 17, 2010 - Heather Marie Kosur