Using Commas with Coordinating Conjunctions
Learning to identify coordinating conjunctions is essential to correctly using commas with these types of conjunctions. Another critical ingredient for successfully using commas with coordinating conjunctions is being able to identify independent clauses [complete sentences].
Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions are easy to learn because only seven of them exist, and they are affectionately referred to as the FANBOYS.
- For
- And
- Nor
- But
- Or
- Yet
- So
An independent clause is a clause that
- can stand alone.
- contains a subject and a predicate.
- makes sense by itself.
The Rule
Place a comma before a coordinating conjunction ONLY if it joins two independent clauses.
The comma tells readers that one independent clause has come to a close and that another is about to begin.
Examples
The present is the truth that we are experiencing here and now, [but] it is an elusive reality that does not last.
independent clause:
- The present is the truth that we are experiencing here and now.
coordinating conjunction:
- but
independent clause:
- It is an elusive reality that does not last.
With this example, the coordinating conjunction but is joining two independent clauses; therefore, a comma should be placed preceding the coordinating conjunction as shown in the example.
The next example shows when a comma is not needed before the coordinating conjunction. The coordinating conjunction and is not joining two independent clauses.
The present is that elusive moment between what no longer exists [and] what has not yet happened.
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