I went to the store and bought apples oranges and bananas.

I went to the store and bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

I went to the store and bought, apples, oranges and bananas.

I went to the store, and bought apples oranges, and bananas.

I went to the store and bought apples oranges, and bananas.

She enjoys reading cooking and traveling.

She enjoys reading, cooking, and traveling.

She enjoys reading, cooking and traveling.

She enjoys reading cooking, and traveling.

She enjoys, reading cooking and traveling.

Before dinner we usually set the table.

Before dinner, we usually set the table.

Before, dinner we usually set the table.

Before dinner we, usually set the table.

Before dinner we usually, set the table.

Comma placement in complex sentences Quiz

About this quiz

What you’ll practice

This punctuation quiz focuses on comma placement in complex sentences, especially where clauses and phrases collide. You’ll learn to spot boundaries that change meaning and readability.

Each question uses a 4-option multiple-choice format with no timer, so you can reason through the grammar instead of rushing.

Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

A frequent mistake is inserting commas between a subject and verb or before a necessary “that” clause. Another is missing commas after long introductory elements or around nonessential interruptions.

Difficulty and quiz settings

Difficulty is mixed by design: you’ll get a balance of straightforward comma rules and trickier edge cases (like dependent clauses, embedded phrases, and coordinating conjunctions). You can choose your question count and difficulty before starting to match your study time and comfort level.

Commas with independent clauses joined by FANBOYS
Introductory clauses and long prepositional openers
Nonessential vs. essential (restrictive) information
Interrupting phrases, appositives, and parentheticals
Avoiding comma splices and run-on fixes

Tips to score higher

Read each sentence aloud and listen for natural pauses—but confirm them with grammar rules. When in doubt, identify the main clause first, then check what’s dependent, optional, or joined.