S + V , but S + V S + V and V S or S + V N and N Adj. and Adj. Phrase and Phrase Can be used in a series: A, B, C, or D

(A comma is normally used.) (No comma is necessary.)

 

Examples:

•  

  I hate to sing but, I love to dance. (Incorrect)
  I hate to sing, but I love to dance. (Correct)

   

He drinks coffee, but she drinks tea.

(S + V , coordinator S +V)

Gary lives in Ohio, and Deana lives in Michigan.
She loves to dance, so she bought a studio.
You could buy a car, or you could put the money in the bank.

When there is a new subject and verb, a comma is used before (not after) the coordinator.

 

John and George both play football. Paul listens to music and reads books. John, Paul, George, and Harry are classmates.

(two subjects) (two verbs) (series)