Combining Independent Clauses with Dependent Clauses
• When the dependent clause begins with a subordinating conjunction (connecting word) and precedes the
independent clause, separate the clauses with a comma.
After
Although
Even though
Though
As
As if
As though
Because
Before
If
dependent clause, independent clause.
So/So that
Subordinate clauses are Independent clauses
Since
Until
Whatever
When
subordinating conjunction.
Whenever
Where
Wherever
Whether
While
Example: Since I was tired, I decided to go to bed.
• When the dependent (subordinate) clause follows the independent clause, don’t use a comma before or after the
subordinating conjunction (connecting word).
after
although
even though
though
as
as if
as though
because
dependent clause.
Independent clause
before
Subordinate clauses are
if
dependent. They can’t stand
so/ so that
sentences.
since
unless
subordinating conjunction.
until
whatever
when
whenever
where
wherever
whether
while
Example: I decided to go to bed since I was tired.
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