Part 1 of a 3-part series on the usage rules for commas
It's easy to misuse commas.
The rules of use are terribly complex.
But they're worth mastering, because a misused comma makes an otherwise sharp marketer look dull.
Here's Rule One.
Use a comma when you name something that's the only thing on earth described by the words you use to identify it; otherwise, don't use a comma. For example:
If you attended our annual meeting, FACE, you know it featured as keynote speaker the CEO of Techno, Sue Smart.
There's only one FACE and only one CEO of Techno.
Our monthly Webinar WOW featured technology expert Dot Friendly.
There are many WOWs and many technology experts.
When your description stands on its own—because there's only one—the name isn't needed in the sentence. So use a comma before it; otherwise, don't.
