Introductory Clauses & Sentence Starts

Today, I want to teach you an important proofreading trick—the “first word scan.” 

Read the following paragraph, and notice that the content explains what is highlighted.

     If the sentence begins with an introductory clause or phrase, you need to put a comma after that clause or phrase.  I have a theory that you can quickly scan the first word of each sentence to tell which sentences might need a comma.  Sentences that start with something that isn't typically a subject need a closer look.  Whenever a sentence starts with a word that is typically a subject, you can move on.  If you're not sure, then check for an introductory clause or phrase.  By the way, the highlighted passages  are introductory clauses and phrases, and I have placed commas after them.  

This page focuses on seeing patterns and eliminating a common, silly mistake.

The trick is simple:  Look at the first word of every sentence in your--or your peer's--drafts.  If the word doesn't usually serve as a subject, a comma is required.

Writing Agenda Introduction  The Writing Process   Active Voice   Combating Run-ons   Introductory Clauses & Sentence Starts   Sentence Types and Variety   Closing out the Unit