POSITION AND PUNCTUATION OF ADVERBIAL CLAUSES

INITIAL POSITION  An introductory adverbial clause is usually set off by commas, especially if the clause is long. (However, there are variations in usage, sometimes even by the same writer). This position gives more emphasis to the adverbial clause; it may also relate the clause more closely to the preceding sentence. Generally, a long adverbial clause before a short main clause should be avoided to prevent the sentence from appearing “top-heavy”.

MID-POSITION (often after the subject of the main clause)  An adverbial clause in mid-position must be set off by commas, since it acts as an interrupting element. It helps to vary the rhythm of the sentence.

FINAL POSITION  This is the most usual place for the adverbial clause. Clauses of time and place (often result, purpose, degree) in final position are generally not set off by commas. For the other clauses, the writer uses a comma if he would pause before one of them in speech, especially if the clause is long or is added as an after thought.

NOTE  After the independent clause, a comma is usually used before the words “though”, “although”, “even though”, “while”, “in spite of the fact that” because they often introduce ideas that are unnecessary or connected loosely with the idea in the independent clause. e.g. My sister has nightmares from Dracula movies, even though she is twenty years old. I don’t watch Dracula movies anymore, although they don’t frighten me anymore.  After the independent clause, a comma is usually used before the words “though”, “although”, “even though”, “while”, “in spite of the fact that” because they often introduce ideas that are unnecessary or connected loosely with the idea in the independent clause. e.g. My sister has nightmares from Dracula movies, even though she is twenty years old. I don’t watch Dracula movies anymore, although they don’t frighten me anymore.