Comma: to place or not to place (1)

Comma is one of the most widely used punctuation marks. In essence, we use punctuation marks to render a chunk of text, a collection of words and sentences, more readable and clear. Punctuation marks give us visual cues on how to interpret what we have read or what we are about to read. They also give us the time we need to process the information contained in the text we have read. Inexperienced writers use of commas can be hit or miss-mainly miss. The reason for this is that not only inexperienced writers, but also professional and talented ones are dealing with a hodgepodge of rules governing the placement of commas. These rules are infused with exceptions, hence making it more challenging for writers to use commas confidently. Placing commas is regulated either by prosody or syntax. There is a considerable number of people who place commas in their sentences where they think a pause in reading is needed-a prosodic judgment. Any judgment on this basis could be risky, unless enough thoughts have been given to the choice. However, back in time, great writers used prosodic judgments in placing their commas. So, make such a decision cautiously. On the other hand, syntactic use of commas guarantees a lower chance of misplacing them. But no matter how you come to a comma placement conclusion (i.e. syntactically or prosodically), you must ensure the meaning of your writing is clear and the information you deliver is intact and unambiguous.

So, whenever you are not sure about the syntactical use of comma, consult a style guide. Conversely, if you are more into using commas as a means of introducing melody and intonation into your writing, at least make sure you do not commit the following:

• placing comma between a subject and a predicate

• placing comma between a subordinator and its clause

• placing comma between a noun and the name that identifies its referent

• placing two commas to set off a restrictive clause

And lastly, avoid comma splices. They are irritating and confusing. You can avoid making this error simply by learning how to identify a complete sentence.

To be continued ...