Commas for Clarity

Commas for Clarity

Commas with Introductory Phrases and Clauses

A comma is often used after an introductory element at the beginning of a sentence. These elements can include introductory interjections, prepositional phrases, absolute phrases, adverbs, and transitional expressions.








https://www.englishgrammar101.com/module-12/punctuation-end-marks-and-commas/lesson-7/commas-with-introductory-elements

​Examples:

• ​Introductory Interjections

Yes, we should go soon.

• Introductory Prepositional Phrases (unless very short, 3 words or fewer)

  Between the towering city buildings, the sky could be seen.

• Introductory Absolute Phrases

  The rain finally over, we left the shelter of the trees and walked on.

• Introductory Adverbs (where, when, how, and how often)

  Quietly, we tiptoed past the bedroom door so that we wouldn't wake Dad.

• Introductory Transitions

  Next, we will analyze Shakespeare's play Twelfth Night.

https://www.englishgrammar101.com/module-12/punctuation-end-marks-and-commas/lesson-7/commas-with-introductory-elements

Multiple Choice

Choose the sentence that correctly uses a comma after an introductory element.

• Before, eating Lauren put the pots in the sink to soak.

• Well, I'm not sure that's a good idea.

• In, conclusion we should require school uniforms.

• Its eyes finally closed the puppy slept the rest of the car ride home.

Multiple Choice

Choose the sentence that correctly uses a comma after an introductory element.

• After, we finished dinner we went for a walk.

• Running through the park she spotted a deer.

• During the summer months, I enjoy going to the beach.

• Quickly he grabbed, his coat before heading out.

Multiple Choice

Choose the sentence that correctly uses a comma after an introductory element.

• Excitedly, they opened the gift together.

• Until, the last minute we didn't know we were going.

• On a cold, winter day she prefers staying indoors.

• Without hesitation he answered the challenging question.