Commas after a transitional phrase

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A comma is used after an introduction that links the sentence to the previous one.
 


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)
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)
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'.
Associated lessons:
 
Using semicolons before transitional phrases (e.g. however)
Using semicolons to extend a sentence
Commas after a sentence introductions
Commas after interjections (yes, no, indeed)
Commas before conjunctions (and, or, but)
Commas for parenthesis
Commas in lists
Commas with a long subject
Commas with numbers
Commas with quotation (speech) marks
Commas with the vocative case
List of easily confused words
 
 

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