Printable Post Test - Commas

DIRECTIONS: The paragraphs below contain both correct sentences and sentences requiring commas.   Place commas only where needed.  If a sentence needs no commas, leave it blank.

            History will ultimately judge the merits of John F. Kennedy’s presidency.  One measure however must certainly be the lasting impact of his death.  Even today the events surrounding his assassination are quite fresh in many ordinary citizens’ minds. 

            Kennedy the 35^th president of the United States was popular.  He loved to mingle with crowds.  He had a sense of humor a winning smile and a friendly nature that endeared him to most Americans.  Even those who did not agree with the man’s political views usually appreciated his intelligence and charm.  However riding through Dallas on November 22, 1963 President Kennedy became the target for a killer.

            To enjoy the pleasant weather and the Dallas scenery the president and Mrs. Kennedy chose to ride in an open convertible.  Three shots rang out when the president’s limousine approached an underpass.  Two bullets hit Kennedy but for some time no one seemed to notice.  Finally realizing what had happened Secret Service men ordered the car to speed to Parkland Hospital.  Doctors worked feverishly but Kennedy who had sustained a fatal head wound died at 1:00 p.m.

            Safely aboard Air Force One at 2:39 p.m. Vice–president Lyndon Baines Johnson took the oath of office and was sworn in as the 36^th president.  Standing beside him was Jacqueline Kennedy.  Still clothed in blood-spattered stockings and a bloody wool suit she was a stark reminder of the tragedy that had just taken place.

            Even today almost all who lived through those terrible shocking events can remember exactly where they were and what they were doing when they heard the tragic news.