Should I Use a Comma After an Introductory Clause?
A comma is a punctuation mark that can be used to punctuate introductory clauses. When a dependent clause is at the beginning of a complex sentence, a comma must be placed after the dependent clause.
Examples of Commas After Introductory Clauses
Some examples of commas after introductory clauses would be the following:
Although I am usually a fan of her music, her newest album was a huge disappointment.
Because we are out of eggs, we have to use applesauce to moisten our brownie batter.
Until we get back, your older sister is in charge.
Whenever Lora goes to the beach, she always forgets to bring sunscreen.
Why You Should Use Commas After Introductory Clauses in Your Writing
Using commas after introductory clauses separates the introductory information from the main part of the sentence, and this makes it easier for the reader to understand where the introduction ends and the main idea begins.
Without a comma after an introductory clause, a sentence can be confusing or misleading because the reader may initially connect the introductory clause directly with the main clause, leading to potential misinterpretation. Take the following sentence for example:
Incorrect: While eating the cat meowed.
Correct: While eating, the cat meowed.
Leaving out the comma makes it confusing to the reader in that once they begin to read the sentence, it sounds as if the cat were being eaten (ie, “while eating the cat…”). Using a comma helps the reader understand that the cat meowed while eating.
Complex sentences, which contain an independent clause and a dependent clause, use commas to set off the dependent clause if it comes first in the sentence. Doing this sets off the introductory clause and differentiates it from the main action or idea in the sentence.
Using commas after introductory clauses is a key aspect of clear and effective writing. It helps ensure your sentences are easy to read and easy to understand.
Keep in mind that there are several other times you’ll need to use commas in your writing such as commas with items in a series, commas between two adjectives, and commas with essential and non-essential elements. Also, be sure to avoid comma splices in your writing.
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