Examples

In each of the following sentences, determine if a comma is necessary after the introductory modifier (italicized text).

1. While impressionism is close to realism in form and structure expressionism moves away from the reproduction of recognizable physical reality.

   Step 1. The sentence contains a long introductory clause; therefore, it should be followed by a comma.

2. Although the nineteenth century began with romanticism it ended with impressionism.

   Step 1. The sentence contains a long introductory clause; therefore, it should be followed by a comma.

3. Like Rembrandt Van Gogh produced many self-portraits.

   Step 1. The sentence does not contain a long introductory clause.
   Step 2. The sentence does not contain a long introductory phrase.
   Step 3. The introductory phrase that begins the sentence is short. However, a comma should be used after it to avoid confusion that might result by having the two names next to each other without any separating punctuation.

4. Because William Blake was both a master poet and a master artist he is considered a great genius.

   Step 1. The sentence contains a long introductory clause; therefore, it should be followed by a comma.

5. Known as the father of abstract painting Kandinsky was an expressionist.

   Step 1. The sentence does not contain a long introductory clause.
   Step 2. The sentence contains a long introductory phrase; therefore, it should be followed by a comma.