Decoding the Grammar Dilemma- When and How to Place a Comma Before ‘Which’

When to put a comma before which

Understanding when to put a comma before “which” can be a tricky aspect of grammar for many writers. The use of commas with relative pronouns like “which” is essential for clear and effective writing. Here’s a closer look at the rules and guidelines for using commas before “which.”

Firstly, it’s important to note that the comma before “which” is typically used in non-restrictive relative clauses. A non-restrictive relative clause provides additional information about the noun it modifies but is not essential to the meaning of the sentence. For example:

– The book, which I borrowed from the library, was fascinating.

In this sentence, the clause “which I borrowed from the library” is non-restrictive because it doesn’t change the meaning of the sentence without it. The comma before “which” helps to set off this additional information, making it clear that it’s not an essential part of the sentence.

On the other hand, when “which” is used in a restrictive relative clause, there is no comma before it. A restrictive relative clause provides essential information about the noun it modifies and is necessary for the sentence to make sense. For example:

– The book which I borrowed from the library is on my desk.

In this sentence, the clause “which I borrowed from the library” is restrictive because it tells us which book is on the desk. Without this clause, the sentence would be unclear.

Another situation where you might use a comma before “which” is when the relative clause is very long and complex. This helps to improve the readability of the sentence by breaking it into smaller, more manageable parts. For example:

– The author, who has written numerous bestsellers, is scheduled to appear at the local bookstore this weekend.

In this sentence, the clause “who has written numerous bestsellers” is long and complex, so the comma before “which” (or “who” in this case) helps to make the sentence easier to understand.

It’s also worth noting that the comma before “which” can sometimes be omitted for stylistic reasons, especially in more formal writing. However, it’s generally considered best practice to include the comma when it’s grammatically correct, as it can improve the clarity and readability of your writing.

In conclusion, understanding when to put a comma before “which” is crucial for effective writing. By following the rules for non-restrictive and restrictive relative clauses, and considering the length and complexity of the clause, you can ensure that your writing is clear and grammatically correct.