Comma After an Introductory Participial Phrase
The Comma
Rulebase Summary
Use a comma to set off an introductory participial phrase regardless of its length. A participle is a verb form used as an adjective that describes a noun or pronoun in the sentence.
Examples
A. Standing at the corner I could see the entire parking lot.
A. Standing at the corner, I could see the entire parking lot.
Comma after introductory participial phrase.
A. Concerned about the noise I called the front desk.
A. Concerned about the noise, I called the front desk.
Participial phrase describes the subject — comma after it.
Transcript Notes
This rule applies to any introductory verbal or verbal phrase — including gerund phrases, participial phrases, and infinitive phrases. A verbal is a verb form functioning as another part of speech (noun, adjective, or adverb).
Style Guide References (3)
Morson's
BGGP
BGGP