I always thought when we use the dependent clause after the main clause, we don't need a comma before the subordinating conjunction for example,
I always sneaked into the movies to see an R-rated although my parents never would've approved.
till I came across this sentence,
They kept the family farm, no matter how unprofitable it became.
The website says it's because the information remains true, no matter what you add in the subordinate clause.
I seem to fail to understand how you can add some information that make the comma unnecessary. Interestingly the same is true with although.
He kept charging to his card, although his account was overdrawn.
How can I add some information that can change the main clause! Should I say something like,
He kept charging to his card although he didn't!
I don't think so. So what's the trick? What's the point that I'm missing?
Best Answer
The truth about commas is that all the rules are just guidelines to help structure your sentences for readability. The purpose of the comma is to simulate the pause that would appear in the sentence if spoken. It's never required but it often helps.
In this case the comma is most frequently used because a speaker would pause before "although" to indicate a change in the direction of the sentence. For example:
In a similar way, a speaker would pause to separate the things in a list:
Anyway, the rule you quote is a nice starting guide, but I wouldn't take it as gospel.