Grammar: Mastering Commas
B1 Punctuation: FANBOYS & Introductory Elements
Rule 1: Joining Sentences with FANBOYS
To create longer, more interesting sentences, we often join two complete sentences (independent clauses). To do this correctly, we use a comma and a special joining word called a coordinating conjunction. An easy way to remember them is with the acronym FANBOYS.
| For | (shows a reason) |
| And | (adds a similar idea) |
| Nor | (adds a negative alternative) |
| But | (shows a contrast) |
| Or | (shows a choice) |
| Yet | (shows a contrast, like 'but') |
| So | (shows a result) |
The Punctuation Rule
When you join two complete sentences with a FANBOYS word, you must put a comma before the FANBOYS word.
- I visited the temples in the morning, and I relaxed in the afternoon.
- The tour was fascinating, but it was also very tiring.
- It started to rain heavily, so we went back to the hotel.
Correct: He visited the temple and took many photos. (No comma needed)
Rule 2: Commas After Introductions
To add variety to our writing, we can start sentences with an introductory element. When we do this, we must use a comma to separate it from the main part of the sentence.
1. Introductory Words
Yesterday, I visited the Angkor National Museum.
Luckily, we found a driver who spoke English.
2. Introductory Phrases (a group of words)
In the morning, we watched the sunrise over Angkor Wat.
To avoid the crowds, you should visit the temples early.
3. Introductory Clauses (with words like 'when', 'if', 'because', etc.)
When the tour finished, we were very tired.
Although the temple was beautiful, it was very crowded.
Practice Your Grammar 🎯
Exercise: Add Commas Where Needed
Some of these sentences need a comma, and some are correct. Add a comma where necessary.
- Before you enter the temple you must buy a ticket.
→ Before you enter the temple, you must buy a ticket. - She wanted to see the sunrise but she woke up too late.
→ She wanted to see the sunrise, but she woke up too late. - He speaks Khmer and English fluently.
→ Correct as is. - Unfortunately the museum was closed for a holiday.
→ Unfortunately, the museum was closed for a holiday. - I am very hungry so I am going to find a restaurant.
→ I am very hungry, so I am going to find a restaurant.
Your Grammar Mission ⭐
Describe Your Plans
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about your plans for tomorrow. In your paragraph, you must:
- Use at least one sentence with a FANBOYS conjunction and a comma.
- Use at least one sentence that begins with an introductory word or phrase and a comma.
Key Vocabulary
- Independent Clause A group of words that can be a complete sentence by itself.
- Coordinating Conjunction A FANBOYS word that joins two equal parts of a sentence.
- Introductory Element A word, phrase, or clause that comes before the main part of a sentence.