Comma after a Transitional Phrase
It is common for a sentence to start with an introduction that acts like a bridge between the last sentence and the new sentence. The introduction makes the transition between the two sentences smoother. (It is known as a
'transitional phrase'.) It always appears at the start of a sentence and is followed by a comma.
Examples:
 Bruce Leonard spent 4 years in Japan studying Kung Fu and 3 years at the
London School of Martial Arts as the senior instructor. As a result, his style...
('As a result' is a transitional phrase. It acts like a bridge between the previous
sentence and the new one. It is followed by a comma.)
Of course, he never knew…
('Of course,' < transitional phrase)
In summary, 7 out of 10…
('In summary,' < transitional phrase)
Therefore, the cost of each lesson…
('Therefore,' < transitional phrase)
Consequently, his teaching techniques…
('Consequently,' < transitional phrase)
However, Bruce was unaware…
('However,' < transitional phrase)
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SEMICOLONS
On occasion, you may wish to use a semicolon before a transitional phrase to make the transition between sentences even more seamless. (This is covered in lesson
Semicolons.)
 I cannot come on Tuesday. However, Peter will be there.
(However, - transitional phrase)
I cannot come on Tuesday; however, Peter will be there.
(however, - transitional phrase using a semicolon)
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NOT A COMMA
You cannot use a comma before a transitional phrase.
 I cannot come on Tuesday, however, Peter will be there.
This is a very common error - especially with 'however'.
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