Commas with Introductory Words
The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation
Commas with Introductory Words
Rule 1 – Use a comma when beginning sentences with introductory words such as well, why, hello, no, yes, etc.
Examples:
Yes, I do need that report.
Well, I never thought I’d live to see the day…
Rule 2 – Use a comma before and after introductory words such as namely, that is, i.e., for example, e.g., or for instance when they are followed by a series of items.
Example:
You may be required to bring many items, e.g., sleeping bags, pans, and warm clothing.
NOTE: i.e. (in Latin: id est) means that is; e.g. (in Latin: exempli gratia) roughly means for example.
Pop Quiz
Select the correct sentence.
1A. No you may not have a dollar.
1B. No, you may not have a dollar.
2A. Well isn’t that the funniest thing you’ve ever heard?
2B. Well, isn’t that the funniest thing you’ve ever heard?
3A. I will work in one of only three states, namely, Washington, Oregon, or Idaho.
3B. I will work in one of only three states namely, Washington, Oregon, or Idaho.
3C. I will work in one of only three states namely Washington, Oregon, or Idaho.
4A. We are learning about many different punctuation marks, i.e., periods, commas, and semicolons.
4B. We are learning about many different punctuation marks, e.g., periods, commas, and semicolons.
Pop Quiz Answers
1B. No, you may not have a dollar.
2B. Well, isn’t that the funniest thing you’ve ever heard?
3A. I will work in one of only three states, namely, Washington, Oregon, or Idaho.
4B. We are learning about many different punctuation marks, e.g., periods, commas, and semicolons. (Using e.g. means that these three punctuation marks are examples of what you are learning about. Using i.e. would have meant that these three are the only ones you are learning about.)
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Regarding Rule 2, it was always my understanding that a semicolon was used before the word and a comma after:
; that is,
; namely,
; e.g.,
Your rule only applies when the introductory words introduce a complete sentence. Our Rule 2 of Semicolons says, “It is preferable to use a semicolon before introductory words such as namely, however, therefore, that is, i.e., for example, e.g., or for instance when they introduce a complete sentence. It is also preferable to use a comma after the introductory word.”
Should we place a comma after the word “Also” when put in a sentence, eg.
“Also, check to ensure that an alert has been placed in ERMS under the Alert tab”.
Yes, the word “Also” is similar to the words mentioned in our Rule 1 above.
Is it mandatory to place a comma after the word well at the beginning of a sentence? If not, can you send me the rule. Thank you.
Yes, it is mandatory. Our Rule 7a of Commas says, “Use a comma after certain words that introduce a sentence, such as well, yes, why, hello, hey, etc.”
I have the sentence, “For example, the first $5 bill featured Alexander Hamilton.”
I’m wondering now if the comma is correct there or if it’s supposed to be something else?
In accordance with Rule 2 of this post, your sentence is punctuated correctly. Because your sentence begins with “For example,” you need a comma only after these introductory words.
If a sentence of speech begins, “Well yes…”, should it be “Well yes,…” or “Well, yes,…”?
Many thanks for your help!
In formal writing, we would omit the word “well.” If you are quoting someone’s speech and must use the exact wording, we would advise including a comma based on whether a pause is desired for pacing or emphasis.
e.g.
“Well, yes, I actually would like a slice of cake.” (pause to emphasize “yes”)
“Well yes, I actually would like a slice of cake.” (less emphasis on “yes”)
Is there a comma after “surely” at the beginning of this sentence?
Surely, she is some kind of a witch.
The adverb surely is not similar to the introductory words mentioned in our Rule 1 above. A following comma is possible but not necessary. It is a matter of the writer’s style or intent.