Question

match each characteristic with the punctuation mark it describes
adds commentary
used after introductory phrase
separates items in a list
indicates a non-dired idea
comma
parentheses

Explanation:

• Commas are standard for setting off introductory phrases, separating list items, and can signal a tangential, non-direct idea.
• Parentheses are specifically used to insert extra, explanatory commentary that's not essential to the main sentence.

Answer:

Comma:

• used after introductory phrase
• separates items in a list
• indicates a non-direct idea

Parentheses:

• adds commentary