Mistakes in punctuations, particularly the use of commas, are common in IELTS writing. Understanding the basic rules for proper comma usage is crucial in English.

Let’s explore some fundamental guidelines for using commas correctly:

1. In lists:

Commas are used to separate three or more words or phrases in a list.

Examples:

People today often have many unhealthy habits, including eating food high in calories, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and consuming excessive alcohol.

TOP TIP:

Avoid using “etc” to end a list. Instead, limit the list to three items and conclude it after the third.

Wrong: People often eat fast food, such as burgers, french fries, fried chicken, etc.

Right: People often eat fast food, such as burgers, french fries, and fried chicken.

2. Before coordinating conjunctions:

Use commas before coordinating conjunctions like “and,” “but,” “or,” and “so” in compound sentences.

Example:

Perhaps no budget is without some fat, but university officials argue that their unique function requires special evaluation standards.

3. Separate multiple adjectives modifying the same noun:

Use commas to separate a series of adjectives that describe the same noun.

Example:

The tall, cute lady is my girlfriend.

4. After introductory adverbs, phrases, or clauses:

Place commas after introductory adverbs, phrases, or clauses of the following types.

After introductory adverbs:

Example: Ironically, the same people who persuaded him to run for office campaigned against him when he sought a second term.

After transitional words:

Example: Many struggle when they first enter the workplace; consequently, they face numerous challenges.

After prepositional phrases:

Example: In the past, it took much more time for people to travel outside the country.

After words like “say” and before a quotation:

Example: John said, “I really hate when it’s hot outside.”

Commas are extensively used in English writing, and there are more applications beyond those mentioned above. However, these are the most essential rules for you to grasp. Study these guidelines and practice constructing your own example sentences. When writing for the IELTS exam, evaluate whether your sentences fall into the mentioned categories and ensure that you have placed commas correctly.