If I have heard one member say: "I know my punctuation sucks.", I've heard that statement a thousand times.

So I thought sharing my information on a broader scale might be helpful.

Rules for comma placement:

#1- A comma is usually used to separate clauses joined by and, but, for, or, nor except when those are short and closely related in meaning.

#2- Commas are used to separate words, phrases or clauses in series and enumerations (e.g. men, women and children enjoyed the outing).

#3- Commas are used to separate adjectives in front of nouns when those adjectives each refer to the noun (e.g. a sweet, dark brown chocolate cake). If you can substitute and for the comma, the comma is correct.

#4- A comma is used to separate words or phrases that might otherwise be incorrectly joined in reading (e.g. above the sun burned a dull red vs. above, the sun burned a dull red).

#5- Commas are used to set off exlamations (e.g. well), sentence adverbs (e.g. unfortunately) or responsives (yes/no) when they begin a sentence.

#6- Commas are obligatory when a relative clause (starting with who or which) could be left out without impairing the comprehension of the sentence.

#7- Commas are used to set off interrupters (e.g. however, nevertheless, also, too).

#8- Commas are used to set off further information or explanations (appositives) like e.g. this style, so elegant and so simple, ... or: she stood there, her face glowing with happiness, ...

#9- A comma is obligatory when an if-clause is positioned in front of a sentence (e.g. If you insist on it, I will do so.)

If you have more questions or something to add, please feel free to leave a comment.