1. Commas: Introductory Elements
Chapter 26

2. Introductory Elements
Key Concept: Use a comma after “yes,” “no,” or any mild exclamation at the beginning of a sentence.
Sure, you can join us on New Year’s.
Yes, I’m done with my paper.
My, the Lions are like a different team this year.

3. Introductory Elements
Key Concept: Use a comma after an introductory participle or participial phrase.
Beaming, she met the celebrity of her dreams.
Proofreading my paper, I realized that I need to study more grammar.

4. Introductory Elements
Key Concept: Use a comma after two or more (or one long) introductory prepositional phrases.
After waking up in the morning, I need a lot of coffee.
On the day when the paper is due, students usually have high levels of stress.

5. Introductory Elements
Key Concept: Use a comma after an introductory adverb phrase.
While he was in the kitchen, the Lions scored a touchdown.
Adverb phrases can also be before any independent clause in the sentence.
My friends came over, and as soon as the game started, we got out the snacks.