1. "Therefore" as a Conjunctive Adverb:
* Use a comma after "therefore" when it acts as a conjunctive adverb that connects two independent clauses.
Example: The weather forecast predicted rain, therefore, we decided to stay inside.
* The comma goes after "therefore" and before the second independent clause. This creates a pause and emphasizes the relationship between the two clauses.
2. "Therefore" as a Transition Word:
* Use a comma after "therefore" when it introduces a phrase or clause that explains or expands on a previous idea.
Example: The evidence was overwhelming; therefore, the jury had no choice but to convict.
* The comma goes after "therefore" and before the phrase or clause. This helps to separate the transition word from the rest of the sentence.
3. "Therefore" as Part of a Dependent Clause:
* No comma is needed when "therefore" is part of a dependent clause.
Example: The teacher gave us extra homework because therefore we didn't study for the test.
In Summary:
* Use a comma after "therefore" when it connects two independent clauses.
* Use a comma after "therefore" when it introduces a phrase or clause.
* No comma is needed when "therefore" is part of a dependent clause.