HOW TO USE COMMAS IN ENGLISH WRITING
Using commas incorrectly is a common mistake in English writing, especially with Vietnamese students due to a number of differences between two languages. Below is a discussion on the use of commas in formal writing in English.
1. With a non-restricted relative clause
The function of a non-restricted relative clause is not to define a noun but to provide additional information, without which the sentence is still meaningful.
For example:
Hanoi, (which is) the capital of Vietnam, is one of the most peaceful cities in the world.
2. With a dependent clause in a complex sentence
In a complex sentence, if the dependent clause is placed before the independent one, a comma is needed.
For example:
Because it rained heavily, we didn’t go to the beach.
3. With an adverbial in a sentence
An adverbial when placed at the beginning of a sentence also requires a comma to follow it and to separate it from the main clause.
For example:
In comparison with the French, the British eat far less fish.
4. With some linking words
Some words of transition (or adverbial conjunctions) are to show some logical connection between two complete sentences. They can be placed at the beginning, in the middle, or even at the end of a sentence. Wherever they are placed, they need commas to separate them from the sentence.
Example:
We felt really tired. However, we went to the beach.
We felt really tired. We, however, went to the beach.
We felt really tired. We went to the beach, however.