Comma placement can be challenging, particularly for students who engage in academic writing. This is often because of their incomplete knowledge of the rules and exceptions that apply to comma usage. In this article, we aim to clarify one instance where comma placement can be difficult. We provide examples and explain the exceptions to the rules for using a comma after “such as.” Additionally, we offer a practice sheet for students to test their understanding.
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When to place a comma after “such as”
The phrase “such as” is grammatically classified as a compound preposition. Prepositions are words that link nouns, pronouns, or phrases within a sentence to other words, showing relationships such as direction, place, time, or method. In the case of “such as,” it is used to introduce examples or to specify items belonging to a particular category.
Putting a comma after “such as” is grammatically incorrect in the English language and is never done.
Comma
Never
No comma
Essential clause
It’s worth noting that rules regarding punctuation, such as the use of a comma after “such as,” may vary depending on the style guide followed, individual preferences, or specific writing contexts. Exceptions and variations exist, and adherence to specific guidelines can differ across different style manuals.
However, there are specific cases where you put a comma before “such as.” These are explained in a separate article, which you can look at by clicking the button below.
No comma after “such as”
When working with the phrase “such as,” you never put a comma after it. There are only cases when a comma foregoes the phrase. If “such as” introduces an essential clause, you neither put a comma before nor after “such as.”
Essential clause
When the phrase “such as“ introduces essential information that is crucial to the sentence’s meaning, a comma is not used immediately after “such as.” The information is necessary for understanding the sentence. Below, you’ll find a few examples that illustrate this.
Examples
- We need candidates with specific skills such as programming and data analysis.
- The essential tools include measuring devices such as rulers and thermometers.
- To succeed in this role, attributes such as leadership and empathy are crucial.
Test yourself!
Practice sheet
In the following, practice sentences for using commas after “such as” are provided. Check the solution in the second tab named “answers.”
- We need experts such as data analysts and project managers, for the upcoming project.
- Our menu offers various options such as pizza, pasta, and salads.
- Key attributes such as adaptability and leadership are essential for this role.
- We appreciate qualities such as honesty, integrity, and dedication in our employees.
- The conference covered various topics such as sustainability and innovation.
- The software supports various file formats such as .jpg, .png, and .gif.
- We are seeking people with skills such as programming and data analysis.
- Our team, such as marketing specialists, will handle the project.
- The workshop focuses on essential skills such as time management and communication.
- Various factors such as location and budget constraints, influenced our decision.
- We need experts, such as data analysts and project managers, for the upcoming project. (Comma)
- Our menu offers various options, such as pizza, pasta, and salads. (Comma)
- Key attributes such as adaptability and leadership are essential for this role. (No comma)
- We appreciate qualities such as honesty, integrity, and dedication in our employees. (No comma)
- The conference covered various topics such as sustainability and innovation. (No comma)
- The software supports various file formats such as .jpg, .png, and .gif. (No comma)
- We are seeking people with skills, such as programming and data analysis. (Comma)
- Our team, such as marketing specialists, will handle the project. (Comma)
- The workshop focuses on essential skills such as time management and communication. (No comma)
- Various factors, such as location and budget constraints, influenced our decision. (Comma)
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FAQs
No, a comma is not directly placed after “such as.”
Yes, a comma can be placed before “such as” when it introduces a non-essential element in the sentence.
The comma typically goes before “such as” when it introduces a non-essential element in the sentence.
