Sta.sh
As the name implies, an introductory clause is a dependent clause at the beginning of a sentence. The preceding sentence, in fact, contained such a clause. Use commas to separate introductory clauses and certain phrases from independent clauses. Introductory phrases of more than five words or phrases containing verbal elements also require commas. Dependent clause openers include:
- When
- If
- As
- Although
- Because
- After
- Though
- During
- Before
- While
Some examples are:
"As expected, she could not turn in the homework on time."
"In the fall of last year, we held a family reunion." (use a comma after a phrase containing five or more words)
"To decide, they held a contest." (use a comma after an introductory phrase, regardless of length)
This is one area where comma use can be tricky. When in doubt, stop and think about what you are trying to say. Does the phrase warrant a pause? If so, a comma is probably needed.
While I know most of this like the back of my hand, it's nice to see that someone is actually taking the time to write this stuff down. Most people expect others to know this, but a lot of them don't. Not everyone's native tongue is English and a lot of Americans in particular (which I know covers a very large amount of Da's population) don't realize that.
Even then... there are some things that people who don't constantly keep up with that an article, preposition or introductory clause is. Only English nerds (like me) do.
So thanks for putting these up... I know someone will be relieved to see them. ^__^
~TLA