Rulebase

Comma with 'Such As' or 'Like'

The Comma

Rulebase Summary

When 'such as' or 'like' introduces a required or necessary explanation or example, do not use a comma before it. When the explanation is unnecessary (the sentence would be complete without it), use a comma before it.

Morson's Rule 72 · p.45

Examples

A. Certain documents, such as tax returns were never produced.

A. Certain documents, such as tax returns, were never produced.

Nonessential 'such as' — needs a closing comma too.

A. A medication like warfarin requires regular monitoring.

A. A medication, like warfarin, requires regular monitoring.

Nonessential 'like' clause set off with commas.

Style Guide References (1)

Morson's

Rule 72 Page 45
See also (1)