You needn't always use a comma before “instead”. We sometimes use “instead” as a preposition, and in that case a comma isn't required. However, when we use “instead” as an adverb and in the beginning of the sentence, the comma is required.
Does instead need a comma after?
Commas with “instead”: Conclusion
To sum, we need not use commas before or after instead regardless of its role either as an adverb or preposition in a sentence. ... Although a comma is required when instead is used as an introductory adverb, this sentence structure is not as common as positioning it at the end.
How do you use instead in a sentence?
We can use instead of in the following ways:
- instead of + noun. I'll have tea instead of coffee. instead coffee.
- instead of + a name. I'll go instead of Jack. instead Jack.
- instead of + pronoun you, us, etc. I'll go instead of him. instead him. instead of + verb + -ing. He went alone instead of waiting for me.
