Should you put a comma before the word then?

You generally don't put a comma before "then" unless it's part of a specific grammatical construction.

Here's why:

* "Then" as a conjunction: When "then" acts as a conjunction (connecting two clauses), you usually don't need a comma.

* Example: "I ate breakfast, and then I went to work."

* "Then" as an adverb: When "then" is used as an adverb to indicate time or sequence, you usually don't need a comma.

* Example: "I finished my work, then I went home."

When you might put a comma before "then":

* Introductory phrases: If "then" starts a phrase that introduces a new idea, you might use a comma.

* Example: "After finishing my work, then I went home."

* Interjections: If "then" follows an interjection, you might use a comma.

* Example: "Oh, then I'll just stay here."

It's always best to rely on your ear and whether the comma helps to clarify the meaning of your sentence.

Example:

* "I went to the store, and then I came home." (No comma needed)

* "I went to the store, then I came home." (No comma needed)

* "Well, then I'll just go." (Comma needed because of the interjection "well")