Punctuation: Commas

Introduction

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There are three types of sentence structures in English: simple, compound, and complex.  In this lesson, we discuss punctuation of the compound sentence.

In today's lesson we continue our unit Punctuation and we discuss Punctuation and the Compound  Sentence.

Review: What Is a Compound Sentence?

 

When we combine two or more simple sentences using the coordinating conjunctions and, or, but, yet, and so, we now have a compound sentence.

Use "and" to combine positive simple sentences.

  • I was on post and I was guarding the store houses near the train stations.

  • I quickly threw my arms around the men and pulled them off the track.

Use "but" to indicate concession.

  • He tried to hug her and kiss her but she turned away.

  • He gave her her freedom but he wasn't happy.

Use "so" to indicate effect or consequence.

  • The two men were fast asleep so I tried to wake them up.

We can combine many simple sentences into one compound sentence by using coordinating conjunctions.  There is no technical limit to how many simple sentences can be contained in one compound sentence, though stylistically it is not a good idea.

  • The two men were fast asleep and I tried to wake them up, but they were too drunk to get up.

Using Commas in a Compound Sentence

 

In a compound sentence, there are some rules regarding the use of the comma before and, or, but, and so.  However, the writer also has some discretion and choice over how to punctuate it.

It is best to not use a comma when both parts of a compound sentence are short.

You might want to use a comma before the coordinating conjunction when both parts of the compound sentence are longer, or when you want to add a natural pause for a stronger effect.

  • The two men were fast asleep and I tried to wake them up, but they were too drunk to get up

  • She was going to miss me, but it was my turn to go.

Avoid Confusion and Misunderstanding

 

Sometimes the meaning of a sentence can be interpreted one way without a comma and another way with a comma.  Use a comma if it helps to avoid confusion and misunderstanding. Which of the two sentences below do you think has the preferable punctuation?

  • Learn to write and have fun, too.  (This can be interpreted as: Learn to write and learn to have fun, too.)

  • Learn to write, and have fun, too.

Next...  Punctuating the Complex Sentence

Subsequent Chapters

NEXT LESSON:  Punctuating the Complex Sentence

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