The Rule:
Place a comma on both sides of the interrupter when it comes in the middle, one comma after when it comes in the beginning, and one before the interrupter when it comes at the end of the sentence.
Terms to Know:
Interrupter: A word, group, or phrase that interrupts the flow of the sentence
This generic type of interrupter can also be called parenthetical expressions.
Examples:
He does, in fact, need to finish his work first.
- “In fact” interrupts the flow of the sentence as you could just say, “He does need to finish his work.”
Surprisingly, my schedule isn’t full this week.
- “Surprisingly” could be taken out of the sentence, so it is an interrupter here.
He will do it, believe me.
- “Believe me” interrupts the flow of the sentence and is not necessary.
Practice:
- Planning first on the other hand will ensure a better result.
- As you know she will be with us all year.
- I won’t be available until next month by the way.
- Hey what’s your name?
- Wait what did you say again?
- That seems right I think.
- Well I think this would be best, but it is of course up to you.
Answers:
- Planning first, on the other hand, will ensure a better result.
- As you know, she will be with us all year.
- I won’t be available until next month, by the way.
- Hey, what’s your name?
- Wait, what did you say again?
- That seems right, I think.
- Well, I think this would be best, but it is, of course, up to you. (this sentence contained two)
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