Common Mistakes in Using Commas

Commas are important punctuation marks that can greatly affect the clarity and meaning of a sentence. However, they are also one of the most commonly misused punctuation marks. In this article, we will focus on one specific mistake – the misuse of commas between "then" and "when."

Using a Comma between "Then" and "When"

One of the most common errors in comma usage is placing a comma between "then" and "when" when there is no need for one. This mistake is often made because "then" and "when" are both adverbs that can indicate a sequence of events, and it may seem logical to separate them with a comma. However, this is incorrect.

Here's an example of this mistake:

Incorrect: I will go to the store, then, when I come back, I will cook dinner.

Correct: I will go to the store, then when I come back, I will cook dinner.

The correct version of the sentence does not require a comma between "then" and "when." The sentence flows smoothly without the unnecessary pause created by the comma.

It is important to note that there are instances when a comma can be used before "when," but it depends on the context and the intended meaning. For example:

Correct: I will go to the store, then, when I come back, I will cook dinner for you.

In this case, the comma before "when" is used to add a pause and emphasize the contrast between going to the store and cooking dinner for someone else.

To avoid this common mistake, it is essential to understand the correct usage of commas and pay attention to the specific rules regarding each case.

Although it is crucial to have a firm grasp of comma usage, it can still be challenging to catch all errors on your own. That is where a tool like Linguix Grammar Checker can be beneficial.