Should I put a comma after "So"?

Some grammar rules (and embarrassing mistakes!) transcend the uniqueness of different regions and style guides. This new International Grammar section by OnlineBookClub.org ultimately identifies those rules thus providing a simple, flexible rule-set, respecting the differences between regions and style guides. You can feel free to ask general questions about spelling and grammar. You can also provide example sentences for other members to proofread and inform you of any grammar mistakes.

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Sarai Burgos
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Should I put a comma after "So"?

Post by Sarai Burgos »

When I am reviewing the grammar of the books, this error is always marked, but I notice that in some narratives they do not use it. Should I mark it as an error?
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kandscreeley
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Post by kandscreeley »

It would be helpful to use in a sentence to know for sure. As far as reviewing books, I give some leeway to writers for stylistic choices. If it's not an obvious error, I wouldn't count it. Or, you could always put it in the uncounted errors section. If you mean for your reviews, I'd have to know the context.
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Post by Pauline Parnell »

Its accepted that a comma comes directly after a coordinating conjunction such as so. However, authors do have some amount of stylistic discretion.
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Helen Akoth
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Post by Helen Akoth »

Sarai Burgos wrote: 11 Mar 2022, 09:34 When I am reviewing the grammar of the books, this error is always marked, but I notice that in some narratives they do not use it. Should I mark it as an error?
When 'so' has been used as a coordinating conjunction, then I'd say comma is necessary. However, it is not such a serious error, so when reading a book, you may consider not counting it under the objective errors section. On the other hand, when writing a review, it is advisable to add it to avoid risking being marked down for failing to do so. In cases where 'so' has not been used as a coordinating conjunction, I believe adding a comma is is unnecessary and can even be considered an error.
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Sarai Burgos
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Post by Sarai Burgos »

Helen Akoth wrote: 14 Mar 2022, 04:51
Sarai Burgos wrote: 11 Mar 2022, 09:34 When I am reviewing the grammar of the books, this error is always marked, but I notice that in some narratives they do not use it. Should I mark it as an error?
When 'so' has been used as a coordinating conjunction, then I'd say comma is necessary. However, it is not such a serious error, so when reading a book, you may consider not counting it under the objective errors section. On the other hand, when writing a review, it is advisable to add it to avoid risking being marked down for failing to do so. In cases where 'so' has not been used as a coordinating conjunction, I believe adding a comma is is unnecessary and can even be considered an error.
Thank you so much!!
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