punctuation - Should I use a comma before "and" or "or"?


Is using a comma then an "and" or an "or" after it proper punctuation? Example:




  • I fell over, and hurt my knee.

  • Should I go, or not?




Answer



Whether it is correct to use a comma before a coordinating conjunction ("and", "but", "or", "nor", "for", "yet", "so") depends on the situation. There are three primary uses of conjunctions:




  1. When a coordinating conjunction is used to connect two independent clauses, a comma is always used. Examples:



    • I hit my brother with a stick, and he cried.

    • The rain stopped, and the sun came out again.

    • Should I eat dinner, or should I play a game?




  2. When a coordinating conjunction is used to connect a dependent clause, a comma is never used. This includes both of your given examples. Other examples:



    • The boy ran to his room and cried.

    • Frank is a healthy and active child.

    • Should I eat dinner or play a game?




  3. When a coordinating conjunction is used to connect three or more items or clauses, a comma is optional (though I personally prefer to use one). Examples:



    • I bought cheese, crackers, and drinks at the store.

    • Should I eat dinner, play a game, or go to the store?




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