Comma Rule 1: Commas to Separate Elements in a Series 

Commas are used to separate 3 or more "things" of a phrase in a sentence. They can also be used to separate clauses buy only if a commas is in front of a coordinating conduction. If you by accident combine two independent clauses with with a comma, you have created a comma splice, but you can fix it by getting rid of the comma and putting a period or add a conjunction word with a comma or use a semi colon. When making a list, you can chose not to use a comma in a sentence. This is called the Oxford comma. If you are making a list with only two elements, there is no need for a comma. When introducing a list with a noun, you should use a semi colon, and not a comma. When introducing a list with a verb, use a comma after the first thing in the list.


Examples of the first comma rule:
 
Make sure to bring your helmet, gloves, stick, and shoes.


I am going running: I will use my new running shoes
or
I am going running, and I will use my new shoes
or 
I am going running. I will use my new shoes

Please bring the soda and ice.   

Link to comma rule 1:
http://thecraftedword.weebly.com/comma-rule-1.html