How To Use and Punctuate Subordinating

Conjunctions
There are two main functions of subordinating conjunctions: to transition between
two ideas and to reduce importance of one clause over another. On the matter of
importance, the main clause is the one that is given importance over the
subordinate clause.
Transition: I often sit down to write articles after my children eat breakfast.
Reducing Importance: Although it is a beautiful day outside, I plan on working inside
at my computer.
There are four main ways to construct sentences using subordinating conjunction.
See the subordinating conjunctions examples below:
1. Main clause and subordinate clause. There is no comma required with this
simple structure.

– Amber rubbed her eyes as she opened a new training article.

– I prefer to write while my children are at school.

2. Subordinate clause and main clause. Because the sentence is beginning with a
dependent clause, a comma should usually come at the end of the subordinate
clause before starting the main clause.

– While Drew sets up the trading show booth, Jon explains BKA services to some
interested guests.
– Although Katie assured me it was OK, I felt terrible about asking for a writing
extension.

3. Main clause and essential relative clause. This involves the use of a relative
pronoun such as where, who, that or which. If the relative pronoun is used to clarify
a general noun, it is essential and does not require a comma before it. If the
essential relative clause interrupts a main sentence, do not put commas around it.

– I like to type in the bedroom where the ceiling fan is located.

– Sharon graciously edited the articles that were due later that day.
– Interrupted: I can usually tell when my neighbor who owns an old truck leaves for
work in the morning.
4. Main clause and nonessential relative clause. This again uses a relative
pronoun. When the relative pronoun follows a specific noun, the clause is
nonessential and should include a comma before it. If the nonessential relative
clause interrupts a main sentence, put commas around it.

– Few people enjoy May 4th as much as Greg, who loves Star Wars.
– I curled up to read the first book of The Prydain Chronicles, which is one of my
favorite series.
– Interrupted: When it comes to law articles, Claudia, who is a legal whiz, knows
just what to write.