Sign in
,
Punctuation marks

, Comma

Also called: curl. A comma makes a tiny pause inside a sentence. It separates items in a list and joins parts of a sentence.

How to type ,

Press the , key with your right middle finger. No Shift needed.

,Keys
right middle fingerFinger
L pinkyL ringL middleL pointerthumbsR pointerR middleR ringR pinky

Meaning and fun facts

The word comma comes from a Greek word meaning "a piece cut off." A missing comma can change meaning: "Let's eat, Grandma!" is very different from "Let's eat Grandma!"

Common uses

  • Lists: apples, pears, and grapes
  • After "yes" or "no": Yes, please.
  • Big numbers: 1,000
  • Dates: May 5, 2026

Fun example: We packed snacks, water, and a map.

Typing tip

The comma and the apostrophe look alike, but the comma sits on the line and the apostrophe floats up high. On the keyboard the comma is next to M, typed with the right middle finger.

, at a glance

Keyboard (Windows, Mac, Chromebook),
Phone or tabletOn an iPhone, tap the 123 key and it is right there. On Android (Gboard), tap ?123.
Windows Alt codeAlt + 44 (hold Alt, type the number on the number pad)
UnicodeU+002C
HTML code,

Quick practice drill

Type the examples below. The keyboard shows which finger and Shift key to use.

Want more? Practice this reach in Lesson 16: Reach Down to C and ,, or warm up with typing practice and Falling Words.

FAQ

What is the , symbol called?

, is called the comma. It is also called curl.

How do you type comma on a keyboard?

Press the , key with your right middle finger. No Shift needed.

What does , mean?

A comma makes a tiny pause inside a sentence. It separates items in a list and joins parts of a sentence.