Correct Punctuation between Dependent & Independent Clauses
5. A dependent clause does not express a complete thought; it is a fragment.
(Hint: Dependent clauses begin with danger words.)
a. A bare comma is correct after a dependent clause introducing an independent
clause.
sentence After the holidays are over , many stores will have sales.
DW (dependent clause) (independent clause)
b. A dependent clause at the end of an independent clause usually needs no
punctuation.
sentence Al ruined his lawn mower because he never changed the oil.
(independent clause) DW (dependent clause)
Overview of Correctly Joined Dependent & Independent Clauses
|
Correct |
After the lightning flashed across the sky |
, |
the thunder roared menacingly. |
|
Correct |
The lightning flashed across the sky |
no punctuation |
before the thunder roared. |
Other Comma Uses
6. Every comma in a sentence is not a comma splice error. There are many reasons to use
commas correctly within dependent or independent clauses. Study the examples below of
correct commas. These commas are all correct and have specific reasons for being in the
sentences; these commas are not joining clauses.
a. Her home is in Homestead; address the letter to 123 West Avenue, Miami, FL 32333.
These commas are correctly used to separate the parts of an address.
b. Yes, you may still write your paragraph.
This comma is correctly used to follow a one–word introduction.
c. During World War II, many American women began working outside the home.
This comma is correctly used to follow a prepositional phrase introduction.
d. Being a music lover, John bought a season ticket for the concerts.
This comma is correctly used to follow a participial phrase introduction.
e. To save money for my vacation, I am giving up movies and snacks.
This comma is correctly used to follow an infinitive phrase introduction.
f. The committee must work together on the food, the decorations, and the entertainment.
These commas are correctly used to separate the items in a list.