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Grammar Section

Punctuation: comma
Comma is used:
1. To separate independent clauses when they are joined by any of
these seven coordinating conjunctions: and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet.
 The game was over, but the crowd refused to leave.
 The student explained her question, yet the instructor still
didn't seem to understand.
2. 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 includeafter, although, as, because, if, since,
when, while.
 While I was eating, the cat scratched at the door.

However, don't put a comma after the main clause when a dependent
(subordinate) clause follows it (except for cases of extreme contrast).
 INCORRECT: The cat scratched at the door, while I was
eating.
 CORRECT: She was still quite upset, although she had won
the Oscar. (This comma use is correct because it is an example
of extreme contrast.)

b. Common introductory phrases that should be followed by a comma
include participial and infinitive phrases, absolute phrases,
nonessential appositive phrases, and long prepositional phrases (over
four words).
 Having finished the test, he left the room.

Common introductory words that should be followed by a comma
include yes, however, well.
 Well, perhaps he meant no harm.

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