When an introductory prepositional phrase is very short (less than four words), the comma is usually optional. But if the phrase is longer than four words, use a comma. ... When your introductory phrase actually contains two prepositional phrases, it's best to use a comma.

Do most short introductory phrases require commas?

Two words or phrases joined by a coordinating conjunction do not require a comma. An independent clause contains both a subject and a verb. Short introductory phrases require a comma. Commas are used to set off nonessential elements.

What is an example of an introductory phrase?

Phrases are commonly used as introductions to a sentence. Words like 'however,' 'indeed,' 'therefore;' phrases like 'on the one hand,' 'in particular,' 'for example,' and 'in the meantime' are examples of introductory language that ought to be concluded with a comma when they begin a sentence.

How do you write an introductory phrase?

A good way to tell if a phrase is truly an introductory phrase is to move it to the end of the sentence. Introductory words and phrases can often be moved to the end of a sentence, without a comma, and the sentence will continue to make sense.

Which sentence uses a comma correctly to set off an introductory phrase?

To use it properly, you need to use a comma after the introductory prepositional phrase to set it apart from the rest of the sentence if the phrase is longer than four words. You can see the proper punctuation in these examples: After the severe spring thunderstorm, the sky turned gold.

Commas and introductory elements | Punctuation | Grammar | Khan Academy

How do you punctuate an introductory phrase?

Introductory elements often require a comma, but not always. Use a comma in the following cases: After an introductory clause. After a long introductory prepositional phrase or more than one introductory prepositional phrase.

Do you need a comma before but?

Comma Before But

If you are joining two independent clauses, use a comma before the word but. Where the but is not joining two independent clauses, do not use a comma.

How do you start an introductory paragraph?

1. Attract the Reader's Attention. Begin your introduction with a "hook" that grabs your reader's attention and introduces the general topic. ...
2. State Your Focused Topic. After your “hook”, write a sentence or two about the specific focus of your paper. ...
3. State your Thesis. Finally, include your thesis statement.

What is an introductory sentence?

Introductory sentences are general sentences that open paragraphs and precede the topic sentence. They provide background about the topic or main idea. Unlike topic sentences, introductory sentences are not developed throughout the paragraph.

Is an introductory phrase part of the subject?

Notice that the introductory phrase, “In a secure landfill,” is not a part of the subject or the predicate.

Is meanwhile an introductory clause?

Introductory words like however, still, furthermore, and meanwhile create continuity from one sentence to the next.

Do we put comma after after?

Use commas after introductory a) clauses, b) phrases, or c) words that come before the main clause. a. Common starter words for introductory clauses that should be followed by a comma include after, although, as, because, if, since, when, while. While I was eating, the cat scratched at the door.

What are the 8 rules for commas?

• Use a comma to separate independent clauses.
• Use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase.
• Use a comma between all items in a series.
• Use commas to set off nonrestrictive clauses.
• Use a comma to set off appositives.
• Use a comma to indicate direct address.

Do you need a comma after this morning?

For longer phrases, you should always use a comma. Short prepositional phrase: Correct: In the morning let's go to the zoo. Correct: In the morning, let's go to the zoo.

What are the 3 parts of an introductory paragraph?

There are three parts to an introduction: the opening statement, the supporting sentences, and the introductory topic sentence.

What is the best method of opening your introductory paragraph?

Your introduction should begin with an engaging statement devised to provoke your readers' interest. In the next few sentences, introduce them to your topic by stating general facts or ideas about the subject. As you move deeper into your introduction, you gradually narrow the focus, moving closer to your thesis.

What is a comma example?

Commas customarily indicate a brief pause; they're not as final as periods. Rule 1. Use commas to separate words and word groups in a simple series of three or more items. Example: My estate goes to my husband, son, daughter-in-law, and nephew.

Where do you put commas?

1. Use a comma to separate independent clauses. ...
2. Use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase. ...
3. Use a comma between all items in a series. ...
4. Use commas to set off nonrestrictive clauses. ...
5. Use a comma to set off appositives. ...
6. Use a comma to indicate direct address. ...
7. Use commas to set off direct quotations.

What is introductory comma?

Introductory commas come between an initial word, phrase, or dependent clause and the main (independent) clause of a sentence. Their purpose is to signal the end of this introductory material and the arrival of the main subject and verb, helping readers to parse your syntax accurately on the first read.

Where does the comma go with introductory elements?

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.

Do you need comma before and after therefore?

In your sample sentence, therefore is used as an interrupter, so you do need to put a comma before and after it. Example: I, therefore, recommended to him... If it's being used as a conjunctive adverb, you'd need a semicolon and a comma. Example: He's my teacher; therefore, I need to respect him.

Where in a sentence is an introductory clause placed?

Introductory clauses are dependent clauses that are often found at the beginning of the sentence (although they can be moved to the end of the sentence, too, without confusing the meaning of the sentence).

Is today an introductory word?

With this in mind, “today” the adverb can be used in one of two ways. It can either come in the middle of the sentence or come at the beginning of a sentence as an introductory word. Example: ... In this example, “today” is in the middle of the sentence.