Watch those introductory phrases!

9/7/09
Hi everyone, and Happy Labor Day! I know today is supposed to be a break from work, but it's also a great day to labor over those personal statements. One advice columnist I read suggested applicants spend at least 40 hours drafting, revising, and revising again their personal statement. After reading many personal statements this application season, I have noticed many applicants forget to include a comma after an introductory phrase or introductory dependent clause. Here's how to do it correctly:
"After reading many personal statements this application season, [comma] I have noticed many applicants forget to include a comma after an introductory phrase."
and
"If I wrote that sentence without a comma after 'season,' [comma] then it would be incorrect."
The admissions committee members like correct comma usage.

Also remember this great anonymous quote: "Proofread carefully to see if you any words out."