Punctuation Questions Medium
The main difference between a comma and a period is their function and placement within a sentence.
A comma is a punctuation mark used to indicate a brief pause or separation of ideas within a sentence. It is used to separate items in a list, clauses in a compound sentence, or to set off introductory words or phrases. Commas are generally used to create a smoother flow of ideas and to clarify the meaning of a sentence.
On the other hand, a period is a punctuation mark used to indicate the end of a sentence. It is placed at the end of a complete thought or statement, signaling a full stop. Periods are used to separate individual sentences and to indicate a finality or completeness of an idea.
In summary, commas are used within a sentence to separate ideas or elements, while periods are used at the end of a sentence to indicate a complete thought or statement.