comma before 'and' [conjunction]: I would have..., and now I would be...

[alex_ln]

Is the bold comma necessary?
"If I had gone there, I would have learned how to use this device, and now I would be able to help you."
Thanks

 

[boozer]

I think it is not necessary...

 

[alex_ln]

Thank you!

 

[kalamazoo]

I think it is necessary, because each of the two clauses has a separate subject (even though it is "I" in both cases.) Otherwise you should say "If I had gone there, I would have learned how to use this device and would be able to help you." I recommend saying "then" instead of "now" in your original sentence or else changing to
"If I had gone there, I would have learned how to use this device, and I would be able to help you now." (moving the position of "now").

 

[Parla]

No, it's not necessary, but I'd use it anyway, because I think the sentence reads better that way. It's not a question of correctness but of style preference.

 

[kalamazoo]

I am curious why you think it's not necessary. To me "subject verb AND subject verb" is supposed to have a comma before "and" and if it's "Subject verb AND verb" there is no comma.

 

[Parla]

There's no such "rule".

 

[kalamazoo]

Here's one:http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/commas.htm
Use a comma + a little conjunction (and, but, for, nor, yet, or, so) to connect two independent clauses, as in "He hit the ball well, but he ran toward third base."
Contending that the coordinating conjunction is adequate separation, some writers will leave out the comma in a sentence with short, balanced independent clauses (such as we see in the example just given). If there is ever any doubt, however, use the comma, as it is always correct in this situation.

 

[ewie]

I agree with Parla [#5] on this one

 

[kalamazoo]

Maybe I deal with too many copy editors. They wil generally put a comma before and when the and connects two independent clauses, and take it out when it doesn't.

 

[kalamazoo]

Rule 12.	Use a comma to separate two strong clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction--and, or, but, for, nor. You can omit the comma if the clauses are both short.
Examples:	I have painted the entire house, but he is still working on sanding the doors.
I paint and he writes.