Punctuation in writing signals the reader about the sentence structure and rhythm, but they can also be confusing. The most common source of confusion has to do with using periods vs commas. Both are small; however, their functions in writing are substantial and incredibly distinct from each other. Periods close thoughts, and commas show a pause or break in a sentence. Knowing the difference between these two punctuation marks is essential for perfect and accurate communication. In the following article, we will look at the usage of the period and the comma, the main difference between the two, and some examples to demonstrate its correct usage.
When to Use a Period
Periods are the most definitive punctuation in English; they end a thought, providing the reader with clarity and finality. It is time to examine when to use periods more closely.
1. End of Statements
The most common use of a period is at the end of a declarative sentence: one which makes a statement. For example :
- The sun sets in the west.
- She loves reading novels.
In these cases, the period tells the reader that closure for some complete thought or statement has occurred and that the sentence is indeed closed.
2. End of Commands
Periods are also placed at the end of imperative sentences–sentences that give commands or make requests. For example:
- Please close the door.
- Sit down and listen carefully.
In these instances, the period adds emphasis to make the command more imperative.
3. End of Indirect Questions
Unlike direct questions, ended with a question mark, indirect questions end with a period. For example:
- He asked whether we were ready.
- She wondered if it would rain tomorrow.
In the above examples, a period always comes at the end. This is because an indirect question has been made within a declaration sentence.
4. Abbreviations
To reflect some abbreviation of a word, a period indicates the abbreviation this way:
- Dr. (Doctor)
- USA (United States of America)
- a.m. (ante meridiem)
Note that this is a subjective matter, depending upon which style guide you use regarding abbreviations; for instance, some prefer not to use periods with “USA.”
Using Commas
Commas are one of the most fascinating and tricky uses of punctuation. They can delineate items in lists, isolate parenthetical clauses, and denote a break in a sentence. Let’s talk about the proper uses of commas.
1. With Coordinating Conjunctions
When two independent clauses (two complete thoughts) are joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet), the conjunction is preceded by a comma. Example:
- I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining.
- She studied hard, so she passed the exam.
In this rule, the comma separates the two clauses, making the sentence smoother and easier to understand.
2. When Listing
The most common use of the comma is to separate a series of items. For instance:
- We purchased apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.
The comma that appears before the conjunction in a series is the Oxford comma. Whether or not to use it is sometimes controversial, but it often clarifies a sentence’s meaning.
3. Setting Off Introductory Elements
Commas should separate introductory words, phrases, or clauses that precede the main clause. For example:
- After the meeting, we went out for lunch.
- Considering the weather, we decided to stay indoors.
The comma, in this case, separates the introductory element from the significant part of the sentence, which helps create clarity
4. Separating Nonessential Information
Use commas to set off nonessential clauses or phrases—information that is included but is not necessary for the main idea of the sentence. For example:
- My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting us next week.
- The cake, which was delicious, was baked by my grandmother.
Basically, you should be able to remove the nonessential information (the clause or phrase set off by commas) and still have an acceptable sentence with the main idea still present.
5. Direct Address
It is used to offset the rest of the sentence with a name. For example:
- John, can you help me with this?
- Thank you, Sarah, for your help.
Using the comma makes it easily recognizable to whom you are talking.
6. Dates, Addresses, Titling
Commas come into the picture when several elements are taken in dates, addresses, and titling. For example:
- She was born on June 15, 1990, in Los Angeles, California.
- The conference will be held on Monday, September 21, 2024.
In each of these, the comma separates the day from the year and the city from the state.
Examples: Side-by-Side Correct Usage
Consider side-by-side examples using correct period and comma usage to make things easier.
1. Periods vs Commas in Independent Clauses
- Incorrect: I wanted to go for a walk, it started raining.
- Correct: I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining.
- Correct: I wanted to go for a walk. It started raining.
A comma is a conjunction that joins the two independent clauses in the incorrect sentence above. In the correct versions, add a conjunction to the comma or replace the comma with a period.
2. Periods vs Commas in Lists
- Incorrect: She bought apples. Oranges. Bananas.
- Correct: She bought apples, oranges, and bananas.
The incorrect example creates three separate sentences from the list by adding periods. The correct one puts a set of commas to have a flowing list.
3. Periods vs Commas in Introductory Elements
- Incorrect: Because it was raining. We stayed indoors.
- Correct: Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.
The erroneous one ends the independent and dependent clause with a period. It corrects this for smoother reading with a comma.
4. Periods vs Commas for a Nonessential
- Incorrect: My sister. Who lives in London. Is coming to visit.
- Correct: My sister, who lives in London, is coming to visit.
In the incorrect case, the periods divide the sentence, while the right case uses commas to offset the nonessential information.
Conclusion
The little punctuation marks- the periods and commas- have enormous power in placing the meaning and flow of the sentences. This is because periods close thoughts definitely, but commas bring up pauses. They separate ideas and clarify meaning within a sentence. One needs to master the usage of these punctuation marks for effective writing. Put periods and commas where your sentences take breathing pauses. Review the punctuation in your writing because this can significantly enhance your work’s readability and overall effect. With some practice, the correct use of periods and commas will be so familiar that you will not consciously need to think much about it when communicating your ideas.
