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Writer's Studio

The Comma

  1. After a long introductory phrase:

    After studying biology on an empty stomach , I ordered a vegetarian pizza.

  1. To separate elements in a series:

    I ordered a pizza with onions , peppers , and mushrooms.

  1. To separate independent (stand alone) clauses that are joined by and, but, for, or so:

    My roommate ate the pizza , but she saved me one slice.

  1. To set off a phrase not essential to the meaning:

    Roommates , who are often annoying , can possess redeeming features.

  1. Do not use a comma when the phrase is essential:

    My roommate who ate the pizza is likely to pay me back.