How do I correctly punctuate the phrase "that is" in the context of an explanation?
Solution 1:
That is or i.e. is used for clarifying a statement. Think of it as "in essence" or "in other words".
Use that is when you want to explain what you just said in a different way.A definition, metaphor, or a clarification can follow.
You may want to check examples here (Read the part that explains i.e)
I am including a few examples here:
The elephant is a pachyderm, i.e., an animal with thick skin and nails resembling hooves.
I went to my least favorite place (i.e., the dentist).