Do I need a comma after "given that" and "in absence of"?
Example sentences
- Given that the survey is representative(,) the author still assumes that the 450 respondents are the majority of those surveyed.
- In absence of this information(,) the author's conclusion is logically unpersuasive.
Questions
- Do I need to write a comma where I show "(,)" in these sentences above?
- Could you also tell me if there is a reason that can be generalized?
Solution 1:
In your examples, a comma is appropriate.
The first part of each sentence, before the comma, is a dependent clause because it contains a noun and a verb, but does not express a complete thought. The part after the comma is a main clause because it has a subject and verb and expresses a complete thought.
From the Purdue University Online Writing Lab
Use commas after introductory a) clauses, b) phrases, or c) words that come before the main clause.