question tags: comma use
The comma that precedes a question tag.
A comma separates a question tag from the clause it follows: The lease ends in June, doesn’t it?
The same comma precedes a question tag that follows an imperative: Hand me the stapler, would you? It also precedes an invariant tag such as right or OK: The train leaves at six, right?
When a name in direct address follows the question tag, a second comma precedes the name: You’ll be there, won’t you, Laura?
See also comma; direct address: commas around a name or title; question mark.
Examples
UseYou turned off the stove, didn’t you? (A comma precedes the question tag.)
UseLock the gate, will you? (A comma precedes the question tag after an imperative.)
UseWe’re still on for Friday, aren’t we, Marcus? (A comma precedes the question tag, and another precedes the name.)
AvoidThe report is due Monday isn’t it? (A comma must precede the question tag isn’t it, because the tag is a separate question appended to the statement. Write The report is due Monday, isn’t it?)