Commas with Introductory Elements

1. Commas with Introductory Elements MINI-LESSON #37 From the UWF Writing Lab’s 101 Grammar Mini-Lessons Series

2. Introductory Elements • Introductory elements may be single words, clauses, or phrases. • Examples: • Usually, practice makes perfect. • Excited about their move to the village, the students began packing. • After all is said and done, more is said than done.

3. Separate Introduction • Be sure to separate the introductory element (regardless of length) from the sentence by using a comma. • Examples: • Meanwhile, there was nothing to do but wait. • Because we were afraid, we left. • In 1994, the Republicans gained strength.

4. Avoid Confusion • Sometimes, not having a comma after an introductory element can cause confusion: • Without a comma • When the riot started the police arrived. • “the riot started the police”? • With a comma • When the riot started, the police arrived.

5. Avoid Confusion • Sometimes, not having a comma after an introductory element can cause confusion: • Without a comma • Whenever you can come and visit me in Texas. • This statement reads as a fragment. • With a comma • Whenever you can, come and visit me in Texas.

6. Let’s Practice! Point out any missing commas. • To tell the truth I have never read Silas Marner. • …the truth, I have… • Toward the end everyone studies. • …the end, everyone…

7. More Practice • Though the hurricane winds had started people refused to leave. • …had started, people… • If you tell me to go I’ll pick up and leave. • …to go, I’ll pick up…

8. Since we’re finished, goodbye!