Lesson 4: Common Comma Errors

Error 1: Comma After an Introductory Element

An introductory element is any group of words that come physically before the subject and its modifiers.

Examples:

Slowly, Sharon became conscious of her predicament.

In Fitzgerald's novel, the color green takes on great symbolic qualities.

Since my mind was not getting enough stimulation, I decided to read some good literature.

How does one locate the need for this comma?

In each sentence (independent clause) and dependent clause, look for the subject. If the subject and its modifiers are not at the beginning of the clause, there is probably an introductory element. When one reads the clause, usually where the comma then needs to go is evident.

Error 2: Comma Before Coordinating Conjunctions that Join Independent Clauses

A comma should be placed before a coordinating conjunction that joins two independent clauses. If a coordinating conjunction is not connecting independent clauses nor is it separating items in a series, then there is no comma.

Examples:
The title may sound important, but administrative clerk is only a euphemism for photocopier.

The show started at last, and the crowd grew quiet.

A buildup of the U.S. military and deregulation of major industries were the Regan administration's goals.
Notice in this sentence "and" does not connect two independent clauses.

How does one locate the need for Error 2 commas?

Go through your paper and circle all the coordinating conjunctions which you should have memorized. Then go back and ask what each of the coordinating conjunctions connect.

If the conjunction connects two independent clauses, you need a comma before the conjunction.

If the conjunction is not connecting two independent clauses and is not separating items in a series, no comma is needed.

Error 3: Commas To Set Off Nonrestrictive Elements

A comma or commas should be used to set off nonrestrictive elements.

A nonrestrictive element is a word, a phrase, or a clause that does not limit or restrict the meaning of the word or words they modify.

Example:
The two drivers involved in the accident, who have been convicted of drunken driving, should lose their licenses. Notice that the underlined clause is nonrestrictive because the clause information is not needed to identify which drivers.

A restrictive element is a word, a phrase, or a clause that does limit or restrict the word or words that it modifies.

Example:
Drivers who have been convicted of drunken driving should lose their licenses. Notice that the underlined clause is restrictive because the clause is needed to identify which drivers.