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Now that we\u2019re down to later-order concerns, examining our work at the detail level, I thought we might talk some more about punctuation.\n\nWe\u2019ve already covered the serial comma, also known as the Oxford comma. Let's cover yet another comma: the direct address comma.\n\nThe direct address comma will be review for many readers, but it\u2019s a fun one to offer as a refresher.\n\nFriends, we cannot neglect this comma or leave it out of our stable of punctuation. With it, we save lives. Without it, the unthinkable can happen.\n\nWhat do you mean, Ann?\n\nThis comma offers clarity in its own way. And you can lock in its purpose is with the now infamous phrase:\n\n\u201cLet\u2019s eat, Grandpa.\u201d\n\nThe comma after the word \u201ceat\u201d is the direct address comma.\n\nWith the comma, I\u2019m directly addressing Grandpa, issuing an invitation for Grandpa to join us for dinner.\n\nWithout the comma, Grandpa is dinner.\n\nSome people have been advised to read their work aloud and wherever they pause is a good place to add a comma. This helps a little, but sometimes we don\u2019t pause when we say things. I don\u2019t think I\u2019d naturally pause when calling out to Grandpa to let him know the table is set. I think I\u2019d just say it quickly and my ear would tell me no comma is necessary: \u201cLet\u2019s eat Grandpa!\u201d\n\nIn print, though, it is needed. Obviously, we will get context clues. The sentences preceding and following that sentence will help us understand that this is not a story about cannibalism.\n\nBut to avoid giggles and possible confusion\u2014or horror\u2014it\u2019s best to include the direct address comma whenever and wherever it\u2019s needed.\nA quick review:\nIf the name of the person you\u2019re addressing launches the sentence, the comma follows the name:\n\nNancy, bring your computer tonight so we can work on our book together.\n\nWhen the name falls in the middle of the sentence, surround the name with commas:\n\nIf you insist on writing that memoir, Sam, at least change my name and hair color.\n\nAnd if the name falls at the end of the sentence, you need one comma preceding it:\n\nI would love to write a review on iTunes for you, Ann.\n\nJust joking! Although if you have time, I really would love your positive review on iTunes so others can find this podcast.\n\nHow about this example, instead:\n\nI hope your book launch is a huge success, Deidra.\n\nSo, friends, that\u2019s a quick reminder of how the direct address comma can avoid the unthinkable. Use it\u2014you might just save a life.\n\nTo listen to the full episode, click on the podcast player above or use subscription options below.\nResources:\n\n \tEp 94: Grammar Matters: Why Concern Ourselves with Commas?\n \tEp 96: When You Really Need Next-Level Edits (next-level edits, lower-order concerns)\n \tHow to Write a Review in iTunes\n \tHigher-Order Concerns (HOCs) and Lower-Order Concerns (HOCs)\xa0(Purdue Online Writing Lab - OWL)\n \tAll podcast episodes\n\n* * *\nYou can subscribe with iTunes,\xa0where I'd love to have you subscribe, rate, and leave a review.\n\nThe podcast is also available\xa0Stitcher,\xa0and you should be able to search for and find "Ann Kroeker, Writing Coach" in any podcast player.