Which sentence correctly uses a comma after an introductory dependent clause?

• A. If you finish your homework you can go outside.
• B. If you finish your homework, you can go outside.
• C. If you finish your homework you, can go outside.
• D. If you finish your homework; you can go outside.

Answer: (B)

Using a comma after an introductory dependent clause sets off the introductory part from the main idea that follows. Here, the dependent clause “If you finish your homework” comes at the start, so a comma after it signals the natural pause before the main clause: “you can go outside.” This helps readers see the condition first and then the result.

Without the comma, the sentence can read as a single, less-clear thought. A comma placed after “you” disrupts the flow and isn’t correct punctuation for this structure. A semicolon tries to join two independent clauses, but the first part is dependent and can’t stand alone, so that punctuation also doesn’t fit here.

So the form with the comma after the introductory clause is the clearest and correct choice: If you finish your homework, you can go outside.