More often than not, I find myself using a comma as sort of a pause. In most cases, it feels right. But I fear that I overuse commas and put them in places where they are not necessary.
Some examples:
Both of which, are valid.
I was going to go to work but, I felt sick.
I find myself using commas after words like "but" or "then". Most reference works I've consulted have defined these commas as a preference. Am I completely wrong here? Am I overusing commas and confusing my readers?
Any additional documentation on commas of this type would be greatly appreciated.