Common mistake Comma after a month

Comma after a month

One common mistake that people often make when writing is using a comma after a month when specifying a month and year. This mistake can make their writing appear incorrect or unprofessional. However, it is actually unnecessary to use a comma in this situation.

When to use a comma

Commas are an important punctuation mark that help to clarify the structure and meaning of sentences. They are used in various ways, such as separating items in a list, joining independent clauses, and setting off introductory phrases. However, when it comes to indicating a month and year, a comma is not needed.

For example:

  • Incorrect: July, 2022
  • Correct: July 2022

In the incorrect example, the comma after the month "July" is unnecessary. The correct way to write it is without the comma, as shown in the second example.

Exceptions

There are some cases where using a comma after a month may be acceptable. For instance, if the month and year are being used as an appositive, a comma can be used to set it off.

Example:

  • He was born in July, 2022, just a few weeks before his sister.

In this case, the comma is used to set off the month and year, providing additional information about the subject's birth date.

Using a grammar checker for accuracy

Ensuring proper comma usage and avoiding common mistakes like using a comma after a month can greatly improve the clarity and professionalism of your writing. If you want to be confident in your grammar, you can use a tool like Linguix grammar checker. It helps to identify such mistakes and provides suggestions for corrections, ensuring that your writing is error-free and polished.

Comma after a month mistake examples

  • Incorrect:
    The store closed its doors for good in October, 1958.

    Correct:
    The store closed its doors for good in October 1958.

  • Incorrect:
    30#2 (May, 1998), pp. 341–372 in JSTOR.

    Correct:
    30#2 (May 1998), pp. 341–372 in JSTOR.

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