Comma Separator - ACT?

Question

As I was preparing for the ACT, I came across this question: Phrase: "Key and Peele is at its best when it deals with questions of what is expected of mixed-race people, in a society reluctant to let go of racial stereotypes" Is that right? Or is the phrase below correct: Key and Peele is at its best when it deals with questions of what is expected of mixed-race people in a society reluctant to let go of racial stereotypes" (No comma before in a society) If so, why? Thanks.

Answer 1

I think the simplest way to look at this is: commas indicate pauses in speech. If you say this sentence aloud (or any sentence) and the pause where the comma is sounds off-putting, then it's most likely wrong.

In this case you're absolutely right. I think the author of this sentence confused "in a society reluctant to let go of racial stereotypes" with a non-essential modify phrase, when it's actually a really important part of the sentence.

I really like to use Google translate for this because the automated voice makes it clear when a sentence doesn't sound right.

Happy studying!

Answer 2

Very good question. In general, don't insert a comma in a sentence unless there is a specific rule requiring one. *However,* sometimes a comma is needed simply for clarity, in which case, you add one. The joke about the Oxford comma (demanding that it is essential) gives the sentence, "We invited the strippers, Hitler and Churchill." Without the comma after Hitler, the sentence suggests that Hitler and Churchill *were* the strippers--not just two of the invitees. :) Does your sentence require a comma for clarity? I would say clearly not.

One additional important note: Since a comma for clarity is a judgment call, you will not find such a question on the ACT.

Best wishes

Answer 3

No comma. "In a society reluctant to let go of racial stereotypes" cannot stand by itself. It is a preposition phrase at the end of the sentence, so it should not be sent off by a comma.