Introductory words, like introductory phrases, require a comma. After introductory words, we use a comma to separate the introductory word from the independent clause.
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The introductory word in the sentence will frequently be an adverb. Consider the sample sentences below:
Meanwhile the
cat stretched luxuriously in the sunshine.
Meanwhile, the
cat stretched luxuriously in the sunshine.
Furthermore the
educational institution will prosecute those individuals who plagiarize the institution’s written works.
Furthermore, the
educational institution will prosecute those individuals who plagiarize the institution’s written works.
Suddenly an
angry black cat sprang from the shadows.
Suddenly, an
angry black cat sprang from the shadows.
This same rule applies to introductory clauses.
