Commas with Introductory Phrases and Clauses

Front

Before answering, think carefully.

Back

a. Before answering the question, think carefully.

Front

While waiting for the bus, Sarah finished her homework.

Back

c. While waiting for the bus, Sarah finished her homework.

Front

Because she studied hard, Maria aced the exam.

Back

c. Because she studied hard, Maria aced the exam.

Front

In the forest, a cabin stood.

Back

a. In the middle of the forest, a small cabin stood.

Front

After dinner, Jake went to bed.

Back

c. After finishing his dinner, Jake went to bed.

Front

Before the concert, musicians tuned their instruments.

Back

c. Before the concert began, the musicians tuned their instruments.

Front

Ancient drawings discovered in a cave.

Back

While exploring the cave, they discovered ancient drawings on the walls.

Front

Heavy rain caused the school picnic cancellation.

Back

c. Because of the heavy rain, the school picnic was canceled.

Front

During the thunderstorm, the power went out in the entire neighborhood.

Back

Correct: During the thunderstorm, the power went out in the entire neighborhood.

Front

After finishing her chores, Emily rewarded herself with a movie night.

Back

c. After finishing her chores, Emily rewarded herself with a movie night.