In this episode of the Life Writers Vlog, we tackle one of grammar’s trickier questions: whether or not to use a comma before because.
The Chicago Manual of Style, the style guide for creative writers, generally says the answer is no, especially when the information that follows because is essential to understanding the sentence.
But when you’re adding reflection, an emotional pause, or details that aren’t strictly necessary, it might be a good idea to use that comma.
Bottom line: 95% of the time, skip the comma before because.
Tell us about your experience with commas and because. Has this situation confused you in the past? Do you generally use a comma before because or not? Why or why not? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.
But always remember, the only way to do this wrong is to not do it at all!
Until next time, happy writing, everybody.
My general rule of thumb regarding commas is to use them if they clarify the sentence and leave them out if they make no difference to the meaning. I’ve never used commas with because. However, as others have noted, now I know there is a possible exception to the rule! Thank you for complicating our lives, Patricia!
I have never used a comma with because either. But I do have a tendency to over coma-tise my stories. Is that a word. It’s in red..
Patricia, now you opened a new can of worms for me. I have never used a coma before because, without hesitation. But, because of you, from today on I would have to stop and think. LOL
I never had a problem with commas and because, because ignorance is bliss. I just omitted the comma because I didn’t know any better. Now I know better, and my life is more complicated.
Thanks for clearing that up, David, lol. I have never used a comma before because.