Lesson 355

Mechanics - Punctuation - Commas

Use commas to set off parenthetical expressions.  Parenthetical expressions are words inserted in the main sentence but not necessary to the meaning.  They interrupt the flow of the sentence.  Common expressions used parenthetically are however, of course, on the other hand, in fact, for example, that is, by the way, after all, perhaps, indeed, also, too, nevertheless.  These expressions are not always parenthetical.

Examples:
Lucy, on the other hand, reads little.
He knows, perhaps, five answers to the questions.

 
 
 

Instructions: Place commas where they are needed.

1. The story that I just told you by the way is true.

2. My plan nevertheless was followed and succeeded.

3. Your plan on the other hand was rejected for good reasons.

4. I might suggest for example that you make some revisions.

5. You in fact should be moved to a different department.