Which sentence correctly uses a comma after an introductory clause?

Which sentence correctly uses a comma after an introductory clause?

• A. After the meeting, we discussed next steps.
• B. After the meeting we discussed next steps.
• C. After meeting, we discussed next steps.
• D. After the meeting we discussed, next steps.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that introductory elements like time phrases need a comma after them to set off the opening up front from the main action. Here, “After the meeting” tells you when the discussion happened, so a comma right after that phrase correctly precedes the main clause “we discussed next steps.” That pause helps the reader parse the sentence smoothly. The sentence with the comma after the introductory phrase is the best fit. The others miss the standard punctuation: one omits that necessary comma, another uses an awkward form without the article, and one places a comma after the verb in the main clause, interrupting the flow.

The main idea is that introductory elements like time phrases need a comma after them to set off the opening up front from the main action. Here, “After the meeting” tells you when the discussion happened, so a comma right after that phrase correctly precedes the main clause “we discussed next steps.” That pause helps the reader parse the sentence smoothly.

The sentence with the comma after the introductory phrase is the best fit. The others miss the standard punctuation: one omits that necessary comma, another uses an awkward form without the article, and one places a comma after the verb in the main clause, interrupting the flow.