Comma for Clarity to Prevent Misreading
The Comma
Rulebase Summary
Use a comma any time it will prevent a misreading or add clarity to a sentence, even when no specific comma rule requires one. This comma can be inserted anywhere the context calls for it. Use this freedom judiciously — do not overuse it.
BGGP Separating Comma.59 · p.216
Examples
✗
A. I think not since he has to be here anyway.
✓
A. I think not, since he has to be here anyway.
Comma prevents misreading 'not since' as a unit.
✗
A. Before he worked for an automotive company.
✓
A. Before, he worked for an automotive company.
Comma clarifies that 'Before' is a time reference, not a preposition modifying 'he worked.'
Transcript Notes
This comma is a tool for the reporter to signal the reader and prevent misreading. It can be applied in any situation where the sentence could be misread without it.
Style Guide References (1)
BGGP
Separating Comma.59
Page 216
See also (9)
Related Comma Between Identical Repeating Words Related Comma Between Two Sets of Figures Related No Comma for Short Introductory Words or Word Groups Acting as Simple Modifiers Related Comma After an Objective Case Noun Clause Pulled to the Beginning of a Sentence Same topic Comma Between Two Proper Nouns to Prevent Confusion Same topic Comma Between Identical or Repeated Words Related Comma After a Long Introductory Prepositional Phrase Related Comma After an Introductory Participial Phrase Related Comma When 'Of the' or 'As' Is Omitted