Comma Command Anchor Chart
TEKS 7.11.D(x) • Reference Guide Notebook Anchor Chart
COMMA COMMAND | Rulebook
Name
Date / Period
1
Compound Sentences
FANBOYS
Place a comma before a coordinating conjunction joining two complete thoughts.
[Thought 1], for / and / nor / but / or / yet / so [Thought 2].
"The storm sirens sounded, so we headed to the cellar."
2
Introductory Elements
AAAWWUUBBIS
Place a comma after a dependent starter clause, transition word, or long prepositional phrase.
[Intro Clue / Opener], [Independent Clause].
"Although it was midnight, Maya kept reading."
3
Items in a Series
List of 3+
Separate 3 or more words, phrases, or clauses in a list. Don't forget the Oxford comma before "and"!
[Item 1], [Item 2], and [Item 3].
"We packed water, flashlights, and compasses."
4
Appositives & Extra Info
Non-Essential
Set off extra information (renaming a noun) with commas. If removed, the sentence still makes sense!
[Subject], [extra detail], [predicate].
"Mr. Lopez, our science teacher, won the award."
5
Direct Address & Quotes
Speaker Tag
Use a comma when speaking directly to someone or setting off a dialogue quotation tag.
"Quote," said Leo. | "Listen, Carter!"
"Jordan, bring your notes," whispered Elena.
6
Coordinate Adjectives
Equal Descriptors
Place a comma between two equal adjectives modifying the same noun. (Test: Swap them or add "and").
[Adj 1], [Adj 2] [Noun]
"The fierce, howling wind shook the old cabin."
WATCH OUT FOR COMMA SPLICES! A comma alone cannot glue two independent clauses together. Add a FANBOYS word, a semicolon (;), or split them into two sentences!
TRY IT!
Sentence Surgery • Insert Missing Commas
Use insertion carat ( ^ ) and comma ( , )
While the robotic rover explored the crater it discovered frozen water beneath the rock.
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The debate team practiced their opening statements rehearsed cross-examinations and reviewed their rebuttal evidence.
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Marcus wanted to join the track meet but an ankle injury kept him on the sidelines.
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"Remember everyone" announced Coach Hayes "the bus leaves promptly at sunrise."
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