| Home |
 |
Common Errors Workbook |
|
Punctuation and mechanics |
|
29. Do not use a comma to set off a because clause that follows a main clause |
|
A because clause needs to be set off by a comma only when it begins a sentence. Here are some reminders about when to use a comma with a because clause.
Use a comma after a because clause that comes before a main clause.
Example: Because the owner was arrested for embezzling retirement funds the company's stock fell.
Here the main clause is the company's stock fell. A comma is needed after the because clause at the beginning of the sentence
Revised: Because the owner was arrested for embezzling retirement funds, the company's stock fell.
Do not use a comma before a because clause that follows a main clause.
Example: The company's stock fell, because the owner was arrested for embezzling retirement funds.
Here the main clause (The company's stock fell) begins the sentence. No comma is needed between the main clause and the because clause that follows it.
Revised: The company's stock fell because the owner was arrested for embezzling retirement funds.
Remember: Use a comma after a because clause. Don't use a comma before a because clause.
|