Welcome to the Grammar Minute, where we’re saving the English language sixty seconds at a time! I’m Lauren Smyth, and I’m here to make a case against commas.

Evidently, clearly, so, apparently, and many others are all common adverbs that can start sentences. Usually, you’re supposed to follow them up with commas—and if you were paying close attention, you could probably hear a slight pause when I just said “usually” at the beginning of this sentence.

At times, however, having a comma after the initial adverb can slow down the pacing. This is especially true for casual or conversational writing. Think of the sentence: “So you’re certain this is what happened?” Notice that I just said that without any pause. Now imagine: “So, you’re certain this is what happened?” The addition of the comma implies a slightly different emphasis, possibly a greater skepticism. While you shouldn’t start omitting commas willy-nilly, when in doubt, say the sentence aloud and see if you really need a pause there.

That’s your Grammar Minute! Visit thegrammarminute.com for more tips and tricks.