Write three differnt sentences, each using a comma in a different way. Explain why the comma is needed in each sentence.
1. I went to the store to buy apples, oranges, and bananas.
The comma is needed in this sentence to separate the three different items in the list, indicating that apples, oranges, and bananas are three separate things that the speaker intends to buy.
2. Despite the rain, they decided to have a picnic.
The comma is needed in this sentence to separate the dependent clause "Despite the rain" from the independent clause "they decided to have a picnic", providing a pause and indicating the separation of these two contrasting ideas.
3. The car, which was parked outside, had a flat tire.
The comma is needed in this sentence to set off the nonessential information or clause "which was parked outside". This information can be removed from the sentence without altering the main meaning, so the comma indicates that it is additional and not necessary to understand the sentence's main point.