Here's a breakdown:
When to use a comma after a transition word:
* When the transition word introduces an independent clause:
* Example: *However, the weather was terrible.*
* In this case, "however" is connecting two complete sentences (independent clauses), so a comma is necessary.
* When the transition word is in a series of items:
* Example: *The team was exhausted, but they continued to work diligently, nevertheless.*
* Here, "nevertheless" is part of a series of transitions within the sentence, making a comma appropriate.
When to NOT use a comma after a transition word:
* When the transition word introduces a dependent clause:
* Example: *Although the sky was dark, we continued to hike.*
* Here, "although" introduces a dependent clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence. No comma is needed.
* When the transition word is part of a short phrase:
* Example: *We need to move quickly, so we can reach the summit before nightfall.*
* "So" is part of a short phrase here, and a comma is not necessary.
General guidelines:
* If you're unsure whether to use a comma, read the sentence aloud. If you naturally pause after the transition word, a comma is likely appropriate.
* Use commas to avoid confusion and maintain clarity in your writing.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and there may be exceptions depending on the specific context and style. It's always good to refer to a style guide for more specific rules.