comma

[bir]

any one want to help me?
I'm new at writing and when I write I just let my hands do the typing
I seem to put commas at the right places
Recently I tried to analyze when to put commas
I was shocked when I found out I had no idea
I mean I know that you use it in examples
(fish, meat and rice)
you use it with the word but
(......, but ......)
with a name
(........., John)
after a quotation
("............," said him)
what else?
compound sentences?
that was my problem how do u know when to use commas and periods
I mean lets face it you can use periods almost anytime
It makes the sentences short but when do you use a comma instead of a period?
help appreciated please you can email me if it makes it easier

[pooh]

There is a GREAT book called The Elements of Style, not long at all, very readable, that will tell you everything you need to know about commas and lots of other stuff. By William Strunk and E.B. White.

Highly recommended!

[bir]

how many pages?

[pooh]

Oh boy. I guess you don't want the answer to your question THAT badly.

[bir]

lol
like I said I know when to place comma's
I just cant answer d question where do u place comma's

[cassandra]

You just happen to be in luck.
http://www.bartleby.com/141/

Our good friends Strunk & White are online now.

[pooh]

Wow! That's good to know! What a nice link!

Years ago I'd distilled comma usage for one of my Freshman English classes to a few sentences, but darned if I can remember them now.

[bir]

whoa
still havent read it
ill try tom
tnx btw
really appreciate it

[wastra]

My Recommendation to anyone interested in writing is to pick up a copy of the AP Style book. The Associated Press is the recognized authority on American English (if you're American, that is). If the AP book says it is correct, then it IS correct.