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!