When should you put commas around which, that, and who phrases? I've seen very technical explanations of this dilemma that make my eyes cross. Here's how I approach the problem and it tends to be correct most of the time. Don't ever use commas around "that" phrases. Around "which" and "who" phrases, you've got a 50/50 chance. Here's how to make the decision: Is the information inside the "which or who" phrase absolutely essential to understanding the sentence? If so, don't use commas. But if the information inside the "which or who" phrase is an aside (like making a passing comment about someone's choice of clothing), then surround the phrase with commas. Some examples might be useful at this point:
The TV that doesn't work anymore is in the garage.
The guy who was in my algebra class last year is in two of my classes now.
My old dentist, who never used latex gloves, ended up going out-of-business.
The Thai restaurant down the street, which was our favorite, got cited for health violations.
I lost the key which opens my safety deposit box and can't get in until I pay for a replacement.
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